
(lass Jf 12.1 

Pookas 





7'<M^rH,At-^ 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE -'^" 



Descriptive and Biographjcal Record of 



SARATOGA COUNTY 



NEW YORK 



PREPARED AMI PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUSPICES OF 

The Saratogian 



The Boston History Company, Publishers 
1899 



^.15 



iO 



Sxtas 



PREFACE. 



To record all the inlerestiny events transpirin.Lj in a county so rich 
in history as Saratoga; to note the development of all its industries, to 
follow the career of each of its various institutions, would be impossible 
in a single volume. In " Our County and Its People" it has been the 
aim of the writer and those associated with him to preserve for future 
generations a record of such occurrences as will tend to illustrate the 
development of the community along its various lines, and to leave un- 
written many of the minor details in this story of development which, 
however interesting they might prove to a few individuals in each 
locality, are not of sufficient importance to the county at large or even 
to a large portion of the population of any town or village. 

It has also been the plan to carr}' the history of the county as a 
whole down through the various periods of its existence, with simply 
a gazetteer of the town.s — wherein this work differs from most local 
historical publications. 

The chapter dealing with the battles fought in Saratoga county 
during the war of the Revolution, and the history of the Saratoga 
monument and the Saratoga Monument Association, have been revised 
by Mrs. Ellen Hardin Walworth of Saratoga Springs, the highest local 
authority on Revolutionary historj-; and the chapter on the Bench and 
Bar of Saratoga county has been revised by the Hon. John R. Putnam 
of the New York Supreme Court. The invaluable assistance rendered 
by these distinguished persons contributes to give to this work a stand- 
ing which should guarantee for it not only a hearty reception on the 
part of the large number of persons who have shown an interest in its 
compilation, but also should cause it to be recognized, in these partic- 
ulars at least, as the most valuable historical work which has ever 
been laid before the inhabitants of Saratoga county. 

The compiler of " Our County and Its People" further desires to 



iv PREFACE. 

acknowledjje the services of lanthus G. Johnson, M. D., of Greenfield 
Centre, George R. Moore of Mechanicville, Major James W. Lester 
and Captain Frederick M. Waterbiiry of Saratoga Springs, Captain 
John D. Rogers of Round Lake, Edward F. Grose, James L. Scott, 
David Frisbie and William Spencer of Ballston Spa, James T. Sweet- 
man, M. D., of Charlton, the various town and village clerks, officers 
of various societies, principals of the leading schools, the pastors of the 
churches, the editors of the county newspapers and others who have 
contributed to the success of the undertaking by the great volume of 
information which they have supplied. Among the references em- 
ployed in the preparation of the work we desire to give full credit to 
N. B. Sylvester's History of Saratoga County (1878); Enos R. Mann's 
History of the Bench and Barof Saratoga County (1876); O'Callaghan's 
Documentary Colonial History of New York; Reports of the Adjutant- 
General of the State of New York ; Hon. George G. Scott's historical 
address delivered at Ballston Spa July 4, 187G; Jeptha R. Simms's Bor- 
der Wars of New York (1845); William L. Stone's Reminiscences of 
Saratoga and Ballston (1880); David Cusick's Ancient History of the 
Six Nations; French's Gazetteer of New York; Centennial Celebrations 
of the State of New York, and numerous other works. Material for 
the sketches in the biographical department has been gleaned by agents 
of the publishers, and the matter as prepared has been reviewed by 
those persons best able to guarantee its accurac)^ 

Doubtless some mistakes will be found in the succeeding pages; but 
as all statements of more than ordinary importance, and those regard- 
ing which serious questions have arisen, have been referred to the best 
authorities accessible, the volume is submitted in the belief that it will 
be found to be, on the whole, a trustworthy record of the origin and 
development of the county and the doings of its inhabitants. 

George Baker Anderson. 

Ballston Spa, N. Y., September 1, 1898. 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 



Organization of Saratoga County — Its Geography and Topography -Its Rivers, 
Lakes and Mountains — Geological Formation — Original Patents Emln-aced 
Entirely or Partly Within the Limits of the County — Origin of the Word 
"Saratoga" — Railroads and Canals — Organization of the Districts and 
Towns -1-12 



CHAPTER II. 

The Indian Occupancy of the Territory now Known as Saratoga County — The 
Great Iroquois Confederacy and the Mohawks, Its Most Ferocious Nation — 
Their Wars Against Other Tribes — The Famous Hunting Grounds of the 
Mohawks, Sarah-to-ga and Kay-ad-rossera — Sale of Both Properties to the 
White Men... 12-20 



CHAPTER III. 

The French and Indian Wars^The Frequent Incursions of the French from 
Canada Into the Land of the Mohawks — Saratoga County a Bloody Battle 
Ground — The Iroquois and English Ever on Friendly Terms — Fate of Father 
Isaac Jogues — The Massacre at Schenectady — Battles in Saratoga County— 
The Old Saratoga Massacre — The Final Struggle — Sir William Johnson's 
Campaign — Fort George, Fort William Henry, Ticonderoga and Crown 
Point - ---- - 20-30 



CHAPTER IV. 

Settlements in Saratoga County Prior to the War of the Revolution — The Ear- 
liest Permanent Settlement Made Along the Banks of the Hudson North of 
Half Moon Point, and Across the River from Schenectady — The March of 
Progress Northward Along the Hudson — Some of the Early Pioneers 30-47 



vi CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER V. 

EDITED BY MRS. F.LI.EN HARDIN WALWORTH. 

Events Leading up to the Famous Campaign of 1777, Made by Gen. John Bur- 
goyne — His Magnificent Army — General Schuyler in Command of the 
Northern Army — His Futile Attempts to Get Reinforcements — Burgoyne 
Takes Forts Ticonderoga and Independence — Baum's E.\pedition against 
Bennington — Defeated by Gen. John Stark — British Failure at Fort Stanwix 
— Schuyler Superseded by Gates — The Battles of Saratoga — Death of the 
Valiant Frazer — Arnold's Gallant, though Unauthorized, Victory — Bur- 
goyne's Surrender - 47-64 



CHAPTER VI. 

The Attack on the Ballston Settlement by Munroe and His Band of Tories and 
Indians — Capture of Col. James Gordon and Others and Their Imprison- 
ment in Canada — Escape of the Captives and Their Return to Their Homes 
— The Invasion Under the Command of Joseph Bettys, the Notorious Rene- 
gade — His Valiant Services to the American Government — Piqued at Being 
Unrewarded for His Valor, He Turns S])y in the Service of the British — His 
Capture — Tried and E.\ecuted as a Spy — Major Mitchell's Peril — End of the 
War.. -. - 65-75 



CHAPTER VII. 

Condition of the Pioneers at the Close of the Revolutionary War — Many Homes 
Devastated, and Many Families Bereft of Their Means of Support — Slow 
Progress of Civilization in the County During the War — Development of 
the Various Communities from the War Period to the Close of the Eighteenth 
Century — The March of Civilization Northward Along the Valley of the 
Hudson — Some of the Early Inhabitants of the Various Towns, and Their 
Share in the Development and Prosjierity of the County 75-123 



CHAPTER VIII. 

The Division of the Districts Comprised Within the Limits of the County and 
the Organization of the Early Towns — Erection of the County of Saratoga— 
The First Courts — First County, State and Federal Officials — Erection of the 
First Court House — The Northern Canal, Known as "Schuyler's Ditch" — 
The First Newspaper, One Hundred Years Ago, and the First Books Printed 
in the County— Other Events Transpiring Prior to the Year 1800 ...124-130 



CONTENTS. vii 

CHAPTER IX. 

FROM 1800 to 1831. 

History of tbe County from the Beginning of the Nineteenth Century to the Con- 
struction of the First Steam Railroad within its Borders — Wonderful Devel- 
opment of Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa — Gideon Putnam and His 
Beneficent Labors — Early Hotels at the Springs — Some of the More Impor- 
tant jVIanufactures — Water Power of the Kayaderosseras — Churches Estalj- 
lished in the County During this Period — History of the Erie and Charaplain 
Canals — Semi-Centennial Celebrations of 1826 — County Medical Society and 
County Bible Society — Men who Served as Ofhcers in the Early Militia.. 131-175 



CHAPTER X. 

Construction of the Railroad from Schenectady to Saratoga Springs, the First in 
Saratoga County — The Rensselaer and Saratoga Road Built Soon After — 
Rivalry Between the Two Concerns — Other Roads Merged in the Rensselaer 
and Saratoga — All Pass Under the Control of the Delaware and Hudson 
Canal Company — The Old Albany, Vermont and Canada — The Adirondack 
— The Fitcbburg and the Mount McGregor Lines — Projected Lines Which 
Were Never Constructed — Modern Electric Railways in Saratoga County. 176-184 

CHAPTER XI. 

Second Period of the Century, 1831 to the War of the Rebellion — Days of Great 
Prosperity of Saratoga Springs — Reconstruction of the Early Hotels and 
the Building of Many Handsome New Ones — Dr. Clark's Waterworks Sys- 
tem — Banks, Churches and Schools — Foundation of Temple Grove Seminary 
— Societies Organized — The Numerous and Important Manufactures of 
Ballston Spa Established During this Period — The Ballston Spa National 
Bank--Religious and Secret Societies — Academies, Schools and Churches 
Throughout the County — The Development of the Water Power of the Hud- 
son and the Kayaderosseras .184-216 



CHAPTER XII. 

Participation of Saratoga County in the War of the Rebellion — The Seventy- 
Seventh and Thirtieth Regiments of Infantry and Their Career During the 
War — Morgan H. Chrysler's Second Veteran Cavalry — The One Hundred 
and Fifteenth — Other Regiments in which Inhabitants of the County Fought 
— Officers of the Seventy-Seventy and Thirtieth, with Promotions. Dis- 
charges, Resignations and Deaths — Names of the Men from Saratoga County 
Who Fought in the "War, and the Towns Which Furnished Them 316-273 



viii CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

The Latter Years of the County's History, and the Causes of Its Prosperity Since 
the Days of the Civil War— The Development of the Older Industries and 
the Establishment of New Ones— The Manufacturing Centres— New Churches 
— Growth of the Educational System — Newspapers, Past and Present — Fi- 
nancial Institutions— Some of the Leading Public Institutions — Clubs, So- 
cieties, etc.,— Centennial Celebrations of 1876 and 1877 — Anniversaries of 
the Battle of Bemis Heights and the Surrender of General Burgoyne — The 
Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument at Ballston Spa — Death of General U. S. 
Grant — Other Happenings of Interest __. 272-312 

CHAPTER XIV. 

The War with Spain, and the Participation of Saratoga County Therein — En- 
listment of the Twenty-second Separate Co. of Saratoga Springs — Assigned to 
the Second New York Provisional Regiment — Its Gradual Movement to 
Hempstead Plains, L. I., Thence to Chickamauga Park and Tampa, Fla. — 
Promotions in the Regiment — Those Who Volunteered — Others from This 
County Who Volunteered in Other Commands^Relief Measures — The One 
Hundred and Twenty-second Separate Company 313-329 

CHAPTER XV. 
GAZETTEER OF TOWNS '. ^ 329-390 

CHAPTER XVI. 

The Discovery and Development of the Celebrated Mineral Springs of Saratoga 
County — High Rock, '■ the Medicine Spring of the Great Spirit," First Seen 
by a French Officer — Sir William Johnson's Visit — George Washington. 
Philip Schuyler and Joseph Bonaparte Also Early Visitors — Analysis of the 
Principal Springs of Saratoga — Discovery of the First Spring at Ballston Spa 
in 17U — Development of the Resort — Saratoga Gains the Lead as a Resort 
and Holds it— Analysis of the Ballston Springs 390-410 

CHAPTER XVII. 

REVISED IIV HON. JOHN K. PUTNAM. 

History of the Bench and Bar of Saratoga County — The Early Courts of the 
County and the Changes in Them Wrought by the Revised Constitutions — 
First Sessions of the Original Courts — Building of the First Court House at 
Court House Hill — Destroyed by Fire — The First Court House at Ballston 
Spa — The Modern Structure — Leading Lawyers of the Early Days of the 
Century — Men in the Profession Who Have Become Eminent 410-440 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



CHAPTER I. 



Organization of Saratoga County — Its Geography and Topography— Its Rivers, 
Lakes and Mountains— Geological Formation^Original Patents Embraced Entirely 
or Partly Within the Limits of the County— Origin of the Word " Saratoga "—Rail- 
roads and Canals— Organization of the Districts and Towns. 

The original ten counties of what is now the State of New York 
were created November 1, 1G83, by the English Colonial Goverunient 
and named New York, Kings, Queens, Suffolk, Richmond, We.tchester, 
Orange, Ulster, Dutchess and Albany. The British Governmeu' con- 
firmed the act of the Colonial Government October 1, 1691. By these 
acts the county of Albany embraced "the manor of Rensselaerwyck, 
Schenectady, and all the villages, neighborhoods,^. and Christian planta- 
tions on the east side of Hudson's River, from Roeloffejansen's Creek ; 
and on the west side, from Sawyer's Creek to the outermost end of 
Saraghtoga." ' Tryon and Charlotte counties were taken from Albany 
county in 1772, Columbia in 1786, Rensselaer and Saratoga in 1791, a 
part of Schoharie in 1795, a part of Greene in 1800 and Schenectady in 
1809. The date of the legal formation of Saratoga countv was Febru- 
ary 7, 1791. \ 

Saratoga county lies in the north angle formed by -the junction of the 
Mohawk and Hudson rivers. It is centrally distant thirty-one miles 
from Albany, and has an area of eight hundred and sixty-two square 
miles. It is bounded on the north by Warren county, on the east by 
Washington and Rensselaer, on the south by Albany and Schenectady 
and on the west by Montgomery, Fulton and Hamilton. Until about 
a score of years ago it was essentially an agricultural county; but dur- 

' The manor o( Livingston was annexed to Dutchess county May 2T, 1717, and by subsequent 
statutes the county of Albany was also made to comprise everything within the colony of New 
York north and west of the present limits of the county, and at one time the whole of Vermont. 
1 



2 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ing the last two decades of the nineteenth century, the development of 
a considerable number and variety of manufactures within its borders, 
principally in its most populous villages, has placed it in the rank of 
leading manufacturing as well as agricultural counties of the Empire 
State. 

The topography of Saratoga county is easily described. In the south 
its surface is for the most part gently undulating, though compara- 
tively level along the Hudson valley and in other places. The northern 
half of the county is very hilly and mountainous. Two ranges of 
mountains, from eight hundred to one thousand feet high, traverse the 
county from northeast to southwest. 

The eastern and southern range is known as the Palmerton moun- 
tains.' This range enters Saratoga county from Warren county, and 
extends through the western parts of the towns of Moreau and Wilton, 
and the eastern part of Corinth into Greenfield, where it terminates 
in a series of low, irregular hills sloping toward the south. This range 
extends into Saratoga Springs and terminates at the Congress Springs. 
Broadway ascends the slope of the southernmost hill in the chain, and 
Judge Hilton's park includes its summit. On the northern border of 
the county the Hudson river — at that point a narrow, rapidly flowing 
and most picturesque stream — forces its way through this range in a 
deep ravine three miles in extent. From the river's banks the rugged 
mountains rise precipitously to a height of eight hundred feet. As a 
rule the elevations of this range have steep and rock)- sides, with broad, 
rough uplands covered with forests. In late years, however, much of 
the forest land has been denuded. 

The northern range extends through the towns of Corinth, Edin- 
burgh. Day and Hadley, and is known as the Kayaderosseras range. 
As a rule the declivities of these mountains are precipitous, and their 
summits spread out into broad, rocky uplands broken by ledges and 
craggy peaks. The Ka\^aderosseras range extends also through the 
towns of Providence, Galway and Charlton to the Mohawk, where it 
confronts the northern slopes of the Helderbergs that rise on the other 
side of the valley. 

Through-.the western part of Stillwater and Saratoga extend a group 
of isolated hills — the most conspicuous of which is Snake hill, a prom- 
ontory on the eastern shore of Saratoga lake — some of which are four 
hundred and fifty feet high, having rounded summits and terraced de- 

> Sometimes also called the Luzerne mountains. 



TOPOGRAPHY. 3 

clivities. Along the Hudson extends a broad intervale, bordered by a 
range of clay bluffs from forty to two hundred feet in height. From 
the summits of these bluffs an extensive sand plain- extends westward 
to the foot of the mountains, covering the greater part of the towns of 
Moreau, Wilton, Northumberland, Saratoga Springs and a small por- 
tion of Milton and Ballston. The southwestern part of the county is 
rolling or moderately hilly, well watered and, for the most part, rjuite 
fertile. 

The Hudson river flows for nearly seventy miles along the entire 
eastern and northeastern boundaries of the county. Falls, some ex- 
tremely picturesque, interrupt its course at frequent intervals, and 
several dams and many bridges cross its water. The High Falls are 
situated just below the great easterly bend of the river in the north- 
west part of the town of Moreau. The water flows in a series of rapids 
for three-quarters of a mile over a declining rocky bottom, and then 
rushes through the narrow gorge for a quarter of a mile, at the bottom 
of which it plunges down a nearly perpendicular descent of sixty feet. 
The ledge of gneiss over which it falls is convex in form, and the water 
is thereby broken in perfect sheets of snow white foam. A few rods 
above the last leap of the water, and where it rushes with the greatest 
velocity, the river may be spanned by a plank thirteen feet in length. 
At Glens Falls, which occur about three miles above the great southerly 
bend in the river, in the northwest part of Moreau, the river falls over 
a broad shelving rock, the total descent being about fifty feet. The 
beauty of this fall is greatly enhanced by two natural piers of black 
limestone standing upon the edge of the precipice, which break the fall 
into three channels. These two are the greatest falls in that section of 
the Hudson traversing the eastern boundary of the count}-. 

The eastern half of the southern boundary of the county runs through 
the centre of the Mohawk river. The Sacandaga river, the principal 
outlet of the largest lakes in the southern part of Hamilton county, 
winds its tortuous way sluggishly through Edinburgh, Day and Had 
ley, emptying its waters into those of the Hudson at Hadley. The 
stream is navigable for boats of light draft from Northampton, on the 
border of Fulton county, to Conklingville Falls in Hadley, a distance 
of twenty miles, but in recent years has seldom been navigated. During 
the Revolutionary war the inhabitants of the town of Edinburgh, fear- 
ing that the British troops might attempt to ascend the river, placed a 
heavy chain across the river, but the British never made the anticipated 



4 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

attempt. Below the Conklingville Falls the river flows in a series of 
rapids, between high, rocky hills, until it reaches the Hudson. Kay- 
aderosseras creek drains the central part part of the county, emptying 
into Saratoga lake. The water of the lake, in turn, finds its way into 
the Hudson through Fish creek, which crosses the town of Saratoga. 
The Mourning Kill rises in the southwestern part of the county, and 
running easterly empties into the Kayaderosseras a short distance be- 
low Ballston. Eel-Place creek, or Aal Plass Kill, rises near the head- 
waters of Anthony's Kill, west of Ballston lake, and runs southerly 
into the Mohawk a few miles below Schenectady. Gordon creek, Shen- 
andahorah creek, Anthony's Kill, Snook Kill and Glowegee creek are 
the other principal streams. 

There are several lakes and large ponds in the county. Some of the 
former are beautiful sheets of clear water, on whose shores are located 
popular summer resorts. Among these are Saratoga lake. Round lake 
and Ballston lake. Saratoga lake is located in the towns of Saratoga 
Springs, Saratoga, Stillwater and Malta. It is six and a half miles 
long and two miles broad. Round lake is in the southern part of the 
town of Malta, and is about three miles in circumference. Ballston 
lake lies principally in the town of Ballston, the southern extremity 
extending into Clifton Park. It is three and a half miles long, with an 
average width of nearly half a mile. Livingston lake. Sand lake and 
Mud lake are in Day. Lake Desolation lies on the boundary between 
Providence and Greenfield. Efnor, Jenny, Hunt and Black lakes are 
in Corinth. The lakes in the northern part of the county are surrounded 
by a wooded wilderness and are but little known. 

Both mountain ranges consist principally of primary rocks. A stratum 
of crystalline limestone extends along the foot of the mountains, and 
below this is Potsdam sandstone in large quantities. Iron ore has been 
obtained in these formations, but not in paying quantities. Among 
the other minerals found in this section are agate, chalcedony, chrys- 
oberyl, garnet, tourmalin, phosphate of lime, graphite, iron pyrites and 
tufa. In 1897 and 1898 gold was discovered in several places in the 
towns of Greenfield and Saratoga Springs, and expert geologists and 
mineralogists express the conviction that it can be produced in paying 
quantities. 

In the southern half of the county the rocks belong to the shales and 
slates of the Hudson River group. Below these have been found im- 
mense quantities of mineral waters, which, by reason of their medicinal 



GEOLOGY. 5 

properties, have become famous the world over. These springs are 
described at length in succeeding pages. Drift deposits, consisting of 
sand and clay, cover a large part of the county. Among the mountains 
the soil is a light, sandy or gravelly loam, adapted to little else than 
grazing. On the intervales along the rivers it is a deep, clayey loam 
and alluvium, for the most part very productive. In the southwestern 
part of the county it is a heavy, clayey loam. The greater part of the 
two eastern tiers of towns consists of light sand. 

No deposited rocky beds are to be found in the county higher than 
the Hudson River group of slates and shales, the fossils of which rise 
no higher than the Lower Silurian age. Consequently it will be seen 
that, from a geological standpoint, the county is very old. The great 
Canadian Laurentian mountain system is well developed in Northern 
New York and stretches its rugged outlines well down into Saratoga 
county. This system constitutes the oldest known strata of the earth's 
crust. The Laurentian rocks are mostly of the metamorphic series, 
related to granite, gneiss, sj-enite, etc. Underlying the northwestern 
part of the village of Saratoga Springs is found the grayish rock known 
as the calciferous sandrock, which rests above the Potsdam sandstone. 
The southeastern part of the county is covered by the strata of slates 
and shales of the Hudson River group. Between these and the Lau- 
rentian rocks in the northern part of the county lie narrow strips of 
the Potsdam and calciferous sandstones and Trenton limestones. In 
the central and western part of the county the Drift period is also well 
represented. The sands and the clayhills of the river valley represent 
the Champlain and Terrace epochs. Geologists believe, and apparently 
prove, that the long narrow bed of Saratoga sands, running across the 
county from northeast to southwest, was the sand of the ocean's beach 
in the Post Tertiary period, when the salt waters of the ocean washed 
the foothills of the Adirondacks and covered the entire southern half of 
Saratoga county. 

The greater part of Saratoga county is embraced within the Half 
Moon, Kayaderosseras or Queensborough, Clifton Park or Shannondhoi, 
Saratoga and Appel Patents. The Kayaderosseras Patent is the most 
extensive within the confines of the county. The boundaries were so 
loosely defined, however, that disputes arose between the proprietors 
of the Kayaderosseras on the one hand and of the Schenectady, Clifton 
Park and Half Moon Patents, and these disputes were not settled for 
more than a century, or until the close of the Revolutionary war. 



6 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Kayaderosseras Patent proper lay partly in Warren county. Its ex- 
tent was very great, but uncertain. It was granted under the English 
Colonial Government November 3, 1708, to Nanning Hermanse, Rip 
Van Dam, Adrian Hoagland, John Tudor, Peter Fanconnier, John 
Latham, Samuel Broughton, Ann Bridges, Johannes Fisher, Major 
Bickley, Ixris (or Joris) Hoagland and John Stevens. Clifton Park 
Patent, the extent of which was uncertain, was granted September 33, 
1708, to Nanning Hermanse and others, holders of the Shannondhoi' 
Patent. Half Moon Patent, the extent of which was uncertain, like 
that of the Kayaderosseras Patent, on account of the long dispute 
among the proprietors of the four patents referred to in the foregoing, 
was granted October 13, 1665, to Petersen Philip Schuyler and others. 
Saratoga Patent," the e.xtent of which was also uncertain, lay partly in 
Washington county, and was granted November 4, 1684, to Peter 
Schuyler and others. 

Besides these were Glen's Purchase, consisting of about 45,000 acres, 
granted August 14, 1770, to John Glen and others; Hansen's' Patent 
of 2,000 acres, granted July 17, 1713, to Hendrick Hansen and others; 
Livingston's Patent of 4,000 acres, lying partly in Fulton county, 
granted November 8, 1760, to Philip Livingston and others; Nesti- 
gione ' Patent, extent uncertain, granted April 22, 1708, to John Rosie 
and others; Sawyer's Patent, extent unknown, lying partly in Wash- 
ington county, granted October 29, 1708, to Isaac Sawyer; and Van 
Rensselaer Patent, 28,904 acres, lying partly in Fulton county, granted 
October 4, 1774, to Jeremiah Van Rensselaer; Van Schaick Patent, 
granted May 31, 1687, to Anthony Van Schaick; Palmer's Purchase, 
lying principally in Warren and Washington counties; Dartmouth Pat- 
ent, partly in Warren county, granted October 4, 1774, to Jeremiah 
Van Rensselaer; and Northampton Patent, partly in Fulton county, 
six thousand acres, granted in October, 1741, to Jacob Mase and others. 

The warrant for the Saratoga Patent read as follows: 

Warr.-vnt for Saratoga Patent. 

By His Excellency, Edward, Viscount Cornbury, Captain-General and Gover- 
nor-in-Chief of the Provinces of New York and New Jersey, and Territories 
depending on them in America, and Vice- Admiral of the same, etc., in coun- 
cil this 2jth day of October, lyoS. 

' The modern name is written Shenondehowa; also Shenendahora. 

' The Colonial records give the name usually as Saraghtoga. 

3 Sunietiines also written Hanson. * Niskayuna. 



SAKATOdA PATENT. ' 

To Major Bickley, Esq., Atiortiey-General of the Province of New York: 

You are hereby required and directed to prepare a draft of a patent of confirma- 
tion for Colonel Peter Schuyler. Robert Livingston, Esq., Dirck WesseU, Esq., Jan 
Jan Bleecker, Esq., Johannes Schuyler, Esq., and to Cornelius Van Dyci, deceased, 
for a certain tract of land situate and being to the northward of the city of Albany, 
on both sides of the Hudson river, formerly granted unto some of them and others, 
under and from whom the rest do at present hold and enjoy by patent from Colonel 
Tomas Dongan, sometime Governor-in-Chief of the province of Kew York, the 
limits and boundaries of which land are to be ascertained in the manner, that is to 
say: Beginning at the south side of the mouth of a certain creek on he west side of 
Hudson's river, commonly called by the Indians Tionoondehows, ard by the Christ- 
ians Anthony's Kill, which is the uppermost bounds of the land fomierly purchased 
by Goosie Gerritson and Philip Peterson Schuyler, and from hience descending 
westerly into the woods by the said creek, on the south side the'eof, as it runs six 
English miles; and if the said creek do not stretch so far into tie wood, then from 
the end thereof east by a straight line until it shall be six mles distant from the 
Hudson's river, upon a measured straight line; and from thence northerly by a line 
parallel to the course of Hud.son's liver, until it come opposite o and bear east from 
the south side from another creek's mouth on the east side of Hudson's river, called 
Tionoondehows, which upon Hudson's river is computed to be distant from the 
mouth of Tionoondehows aforesaid about twenty-two English miles, be it more or 
less, and from the left termination by a straight line to be drawn east to the north 
side of the mouth of said creek, Tionoondehows; and from -hence continued east six 
miles into the woods on the east side of the Hudson's ri/er, and from thence by a 
line southerly parallel to the course of said Hudson's ri/er, and six miles distant 
from the same, so far southerly until it come opposite to ind bear east six miles dis- 
tant from the north side of the mouth of Schardhook Kil, which is the boundary of 
Schardhook patent, late belonging to Henry Van Reisselaer, to hold it thence, in 
manner following: that is to say, for so much thereof is by the former patents had 
been divided for arable land to Peter Schuyler, lot No. 1, and one half the lot, No. 6, 
to and for the use of the said Peter Schuyler, and of lis heirs and assigns forever, to 
Robert Livingston ; his lot. No. 5, and one half the .ot No. 5 to and for the sole use 
to Dirck Wessels; his lot. No. 3, to and for the soU use to Jan Jans Bleecker; his 
lot. No. 2, to and for the sole use to Johannes; his bt. No. 4, to and for the sole use 
also to Cornelius Van Dyck, the grandchild and neir at law of the said Cornelius 
Van Dyck, deceased; the lot No. 7 in trust neverueless, to and for the use and uses 
for which the farm is devised by the last will ard testament of his grandfather, de- 
ceased; failing which use or uses, to the use of himself, and his heirs and assigns 
forever, and for so much as remains undividei according to the heir's use of, posi- 
tively, that is to say: to Peter Schuyler and Robert Livingston, to each of them 
three-fourteenth parts; and to each of the others two fourteenth parts of the whole 
undivided land contained in the said patent, the farm being divided into fourteen 
equal parts, at and under the yearly quitrent of twenty bushels of winter wheat; and 
for your so doing this shall be your sufficiert warrant. Cornhurv. 

Dated as above. 

Before the Crown would issue a patent for the lands included in the 



8 \, OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

\ 

Patent of Kayaderosseras, at that time spelled " Cajaderossary," it re- 
quired th^ title of the native Indian proprietors to be extinguished by 
purchase.\ Lord Cornbury on the 23d of April, 1703, made an order in 
council petmitting Sampson Shelton Broughton, Esquire, and Company 
to purchase the tract of land in question in order to its cultivation and 
improvement and to the granting of a patent for the same under the 



great seal of the Province of New York, provided the purchase should 
be made andVeturned into the secretary's office and the patent sued 
out within the space of one year next ensuing the date thereof. In pur- 
suance of this permission the purchase was made and a deed given on 
the Gth day on October, 170-t. This deed was executed by Joseph, 
Henderk, GideoV and Amos, owners, proprietors and native Maquace' 
Indians and sacnfems, in behalf of themselves and of all their nation, to 
Sampson Shelton^roughton, Esquire, Attorney General of the Prov- 
ince of New York, Peter Fanconnier, Esquire, Commissioner of the 
Customs, and NanVing Hermance Visher of the city of New York, 
mariner, in coiiipanV in consideration of sixty pounds current money 
of the Province, and sundry goods. The description of the lands 
granted by this deedVlififers greatly from that contained in the patent 
subsequently granted; in its language, but evidently comprehends the 
same tract. The deedis signed by the marks of the Indian sachems 
with their totems, whicl\are extremely difficult to identify as anything 
" in the heavens above ^r the earth beneath or the waters under the 
earth. " 

The warrant for the Kk^aderosseras Patent is as follows: 

WARViNT FOR K.'VYADEROSSERAS. 

By His Excellency, Edward, fdscoiint Cornbury, Captain-General and Gover- 
nor-iji-Chief of the Provinc^of New York, New Jersey and Territories de- 
pending thereon in America\and Vice- Admiral of the same, etc., in council, 
this 22d day of October, lyoiS 
To Major Bickley. Esq., Attorne}^General of the Province of New York: 

You are hereby required to prepVre a draft of letter.s-patent for Naning Har- 
manse, Johannes Beekman, Rip Van Dam, Ana Bridges, Major Bickley, Peter 
Fanconnier, Adrian Hoghland, Johannes Fisher, John Tuder, [Tudor], Ixris Hogh- 
land, John Stevens, and John Latham.for all that tract of land situate, lying, and 
being in the county uf Albany, called KSyaderossera, alias Queen's Borough, begin- 
ning at a place on Schenectady River, about three miles distant from the south- 
westerly corner of the bounds of Nestigion's, the said place being the southwesterly 
corner of the patent lately granted to Maning llarmanse, Peter Fanconnier, and 

1 Mohawk. 



KAYADEROSSERAS PATENT. 9 

others; thence along the said Schenectady river westerly to the southeasterly 
corner of a patent lately granted to William Apple; thence along the easterly, 
northerly, and westerly line of said William Apple's patent down to the above said 
river; thence to the Schenectady bounds, or the southeasterly corner of said patent on 
said river, so along the easterly, northerly and westerly bounds thereof down to the 
said river again ; thence along the said river up westerly to the southeasterly bounds 
of a tract of land lately granted to Ebenezer Willson and John Aboot, and so along 
the said patent round to the southeasterly corner thereof on said Schenectady river; 
thence continuing to run westerly up along said Schenectady river to a place or hill 
called Iweatowando, being five miles distant, or thereabouts, from the said south- 
westerly corner of said Willson's and Aboot's patent; thence northerly to the north- 
westmost head of a creek called Kayadarossera, about fourteen miles,— more or less; 
thence eight miles more northerly; thence easterly or northeasterly to the third falls 
on Albany river, about twenty miles. — more or less; thence along the said river 
down southerly to the northeasterly bounds of Saratoga; thence along Saratoga's 
northerly, westerly and southerly bounds on said river; thence to the northeasterly 
corner of Anthony VanSchaick's land, on said river, so northerly and westerly along 
said Van Schaick's patent to the northeast corner of the above said patent granted 
to Naning, Fanconnier and others; thence along the northerly and we.sterly bounds 
thereof, down to the above said river of Schenectady, being the place where it first 
begun. To hold to the said Naning Harmense, Johannes Beekman, Rip Van Dam, 
Ann Bridges, Major Bickley, Peter Fanconnier, Adrian Hoghland, Johannes Fisher, 
John Tuder, Joris Hoghland. John Stauen and John Latham, their heirs and assigns 
forever, at and under the yearly quitrent of four pounds, . . . and for so doing this 
shall be your sufficient warrant. 

By order of his Excellency in council. Cornburv. 

Saratoga county contains an area of 455,577^ acres. It has twenty 
towns, named as follows: Ballston, Charlton, Clifton Park, Corinth, 
Day, Edinburgh, Gahvay, Greenfield, Hadley, Halfmoon, Malta, Mil- 
ton, Moreau, Northumberland, Providence, Saratoga, Saratoga Springs, 
Stillwater, Waterford and Wilton. 

The origin of the word .Saratoga is uncertain. The termination 
"oga,"or "aga," is said to signify "place." The first part of the 
word has been held by some students of the Indian language to imply 
"hillside," and "place of salt springs" by others, " saragh " in some 
Indian dialects being the name for salt. Another meaning, not so gen- 
erally accepted, is " swift water," and is said to have been applied to 
the rapids in the river, in contradistinction to the "still water," just 
below. 

The county seat is and always has been at or near Ballston Spa, in 
the town of Milton.' The Champlain canal entends along the vilest 

' The lirst courthouse was located at a place now known as Courthouse Hill, two miles west 
of Ballston Spa, in the town of Milton. It was built in I79t. 



10 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

side of the Hudson River from Waterford to the southern border of 
Northumberland, where it crosses the river into Washington county. 
The Erie canal enters the county through an aqueduct at Rexfords 
Flats in the town of Clifton Park, running nearly parallel with the 
Mohawk river, recrossing that stream into Albany county at the south- 
erly bend in the river on the southern border of Halfmoon. The rail- 
roads of the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company pass through the 
county from Waterford to Moreau, by way of Mechanicville, Round 
Lake, Ballston Spa, Saratoga and Gansevoort, and from a point two 
miles west of Rexfords Flats to Ballston Spa, there connecting with the 
main line above mentioned. A branch of the Fitchburg railroad also 
enters the county in Stillwater, passing through that town, Saratoga 
and Saratoga Springs, its western terminus being in the village of Sar- 
atoga Springs. Another branch passes through Halfmoon and Clifton 
Park, crossing the Mohawk river in Schenectady county. The Adiron- 
dack railway runs in a northerly direction from Saratoga Springs. The 
Mount McGregor narrow-gauge railway runs northerly from the village 
of Saratoga Springs to Mount McGregor, located in the town of Moreau. 
The Albany, Vermont and Canada railroad crossed the Mohawk at Co- 
hoes, intersected the Rensselaer and Saratoga railroad' at Saratoga 
Junction, and crossed the Hudson at Deepikill into Rensselaer county. 
This railroad was abandoned and its rails removed many years ago. 
There are also several electric railroads in the county. 

At the time of the first division of Albany county and the formation 
of Tryon( Montgomery) and Charlotte (Washington) counties, on March 
34, 1773, that part of Albany county now embraced within the con- 
fines of Saratoga county was divided into two districts called respect- 
ively the district of Saraghtoga and the district of Half Moon. The 
district of Half Moon embraced the territory included in the present 
towns of Halfmoon, Waterford and Clifton Park. The district of 
Saraghtoga embraced the remainder of the county, including all of the 
seventeen towns excepting the three contained in the district of Half 
Moon. April 1, 1775, the district of Saraghtoga was divided, part of 
it being named Ball's Town. The district of Ball's Town included the 
present towns of Ballston, Milton, Charlton, Galway, Providence, Ed- 
inburgh and a part of Greenfield. March 7, 1788, Ball's Town, Half 
Moon, Saraghtoga and Stillwater were organized as towns of Albany 

' Now that part of the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company's system extending from Wa- 
terford to Saratoga. 



ORGANIZATION OF TOWNS. 11 

county, Saratoga count}' not yet having been created. When the count}' 
was formed three years later these towns still remained. The towns 
in the county, twenty in number, are as follows: 

Saratoga ' was formed as a town March 7, 1788. Easton, a town of 
Washington county, was taken off in 1789; a part of Greenfield in 1793; 
Northumberland in 1798, a part of Malta in 1802 and Saratoga Springs 
in 1819. 

Halfmoon" was formed as a town March 7, 1788. Its name was 
changed to Orange April 17, 1816, but the original name was restored 
January 16, 1820. Waterford was taken off in 1816 and Clifton Park 
in 1828. 

Ballston ' was formed as a town March 7, 1788. Charlton, Galway 
and Milton were taken off in 1792, and the line of Charlton was changed 
March 5, 1795. 

Stillwater* was formed March 7, 1788. A part of Easton, in Wash- 
ington county, was taken off in 1789, and Malta in 1802. 

Milton was formed from Ballston March 7, 1792. A part of Green- 
field was taken off in 1793. 

Charlton was formed from Ballston March 17, 1792. 

Galway' was formed from Ballston March 7, 1792. Providence was 
taken off in' 1796. 

Greenfield was formed from Saratoga and Milton March 12, 1793. 
Apart of Hadley was taken off in 1801. 

Providence was formed from Galway February 5, 1796. Edinburgh 
was taken off in 1801. 

Northumberland was formed from Saratoga March 16, 1798. A part 
of Hadley was taken off in 1801, Moreau in 1805, and Wilton in 1818. 

Edinburgh was formed from Providence March 13, 1801, as North- 
field. Its name was changed April 6, 1808. A part of Day was taken 
off in 1819. 

Hadley was formed from Greenfield and Northumberland February 

' Written " Saraghtoga " until about 1793. Upon the old map of the Kayaderosseras Patent 
this name is spelled "Seraghtogha," which some believe to be the original Indian name. The 
name was first applied to a settlement on the Hudson, in the vicinity of the present village of 
Schuylerville. 

^ Originally written Half Moon. The town was named from the crescent shape of the land 
between the Hudson and the Mohawk. 

2 Named from Rev. Eliphalet Ball, one of the first settlers. 

^ Named from the "still water " In the Hudson, on the borders of the town, 

^ Named from the native place of the tirst Scotch settlers. 



13 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

27, 1801. Its boundaries were amended February 28, 1808. Corinth 
was taken off in 1818, and a part of Day in 1819. 

Malta was formed from Stillwater March 3, 1802. A part of Sara- 
toga was annexed March 28, 1805. 

Moreau ' was taken from Northumberland March 28, 1805. A 
part was annexed to Corinth in 1848. 

Waterford ^ was formed from Halfmoon April 17, 1816. 

Corinth was formed from Hadley April 20, 1818. A part of Moreau 
was annexed January 28, 1848. 

Wilton was formed from Northumberland April 20, 1818. 

Saratoga Springs" was formed from Saratoga April 9, 1819. 

Day was formed from Edinburgh and Hadley, as Concord, April 17, 
1819. Its name was changed December 3, 1827. 

Clifton Park was formed from Halfmoon March 3, 1828, as Clifton. 
Its name was changed March 31, 1829. 



CHAPTER II. 



The Indian Occupancy of the Territory now Known as Saratoga County — Tlie 
Great Iroquois Confederacy and the Mohawks, Its Most Ferocious Nation — Their 
Wars Against Other Tribes— The Famous Hunting Grounds of the Mohawks, Sa- 
raghto-ga and Kay-ad-ros-se ra — Sale of Both Properties to the White Men. 

The territory embraced within the limits of the county of vSaratoga 
was once the habitat of the jMohawk Indians, the most ferocious of the 
Iroquois tribes known as the Five Nations of New York. The warriors 
of this great Indian republic — the most powerful confederation of In- 
dian tribes in America — presented the Indian character in its most fa- 
vorable aspect. They were brave, patriotic and eloquent. They lived, 
for the most part, in villages in which their local laws were closely 
observed, and they were more favorably disposed toward useful indus- 

' Named from Marshal Moreau, tlie great French warrior, theo a resident of New Jersey. 

2 The Indians called the country around the mouth of the Mohawk "Nach-te-nack." This 
town was formerly known as Half Moon Point, and the semi-circular tract between the Hudson 
and the Mohawk was called Half Moon. The present name of the town originated from the fact 
that at the village of Waterford a ford crossed to Haver Island, in Albany county. 
'' Named from the mineral springs located in the town. 



THE INDIAN OCCUPANCY. 13 

try than most Indian tribes, tilling the soil with a fair measure of suc- 
cess. They exhibited great fidelity as friends, especially until their 
peaceful life was interfered with by the encroachments of the white 
man; but on the other hand they were terrible as enemies, pursuing 
their foes with that relentless determination which made them so 
greatly feared by the white man when the latter had incurred their 
enmity. 

The tribes of the Five Nations — commonly known as the Iroquois 
Indians — were named the Senecas, Cayugas, Onondagas, Oneidas and 
Mohawks.' The Tuscaroras, who inhabited a portion of Virginia and 
North Carolina, rose against the colonists in 1711, and after several 
years of warfare were nearly destroyed. The remainder subsequently 
joined the Iroquois, forming the sixth nation of that confederacy and 
amalgamating with the Oneidas in Central New York. After the ad- 
mission of the Tuscaroras this confederacy, became known as the Six 
Nations. They occupied all Central New Vork, from Lake Erie to the 
Hudson river, in the order named, the Senecas on the western borders 
of the vState and the Mohawks guarding the eastern limits of the con- 
federacy. The Iroquois called themselves the Hode-no-sau-nee," and 
their magnificent hunting ground they called Ho de-no- sau-nee-ga. 
This hunting ground, which thc}^ steadfastly defended from all intrud- 
ers, embraced practically all of what is now New York State excepting 
the territory east of the Hudson river and a small section of the State 
along the southern boundary. This republic was divided among the 
several nations by well-defined boundary lines. The Mohawks and 
Oneidas jointly owned nearly all the territory of Northern New York, 
the eastern half of this section being the domain of the Mohawks. The 
boundary line between their properties began on the St. Lawrence 
river at the site of the present town of Waddington, ran south along 
the line between Lewis and Herkimer counties and crossed the Mohawk 
river at the site of Utica. The land east of the line, controlled by the 
Mohawks, was called by them Ga-ne-a ga o-no-ga. The northern part 
of the great wooded mountains was claimed not only by the Mohawks 

1 The word " Muhawk " is derived from the Algonquin " Maqua," meaning " bears." The 
Hurons called them Agniehronnin. They were the first tribe of that region to obtain firearms. 
Their frontier position made them so conspicuous that their name was often used by the English 
and the New England tribes for the whole Iroquois Confederacy. Their Indian name "Ga-ne- 
a-ga-o-no," translated means, " People possessors of the flint." 

- Translated means: "People of the long house;" "long house" being intended to describe 
the home of the Five Nations, They sometimes called themselves the Agannschioni, meaning 
*' United People," and also by a name meaning "real men." 



14 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and Oneidas, but also by the Adirondacks, a Canadian nation belonging 
to the Algonquins, and many fierce battles for supremacy occurred 
among the mountains by succeeding generations of the savages. This 
region was "the dark and bloody ground " of the ancient Indian tradi- 
tions. 

In the reign of Atotarho XII, one of the kings of the Five Nations, 
perhaps about fifty years before the discovery of America by Columbus, 
we are told by an authority on Indian history," the Tehatirihokea, or 
Mohawks, were at war with Ranatshaganha, "supposed Mohegans, 
who occupied the opposite bank of the river Skannataly, or Hudson. 
The warfare was maintained by small expeditions; the Mohawks would 
cross the river and attack the enemy ; the canoes were kept in the river 
continually to cover their retreat; but after a while the Mohegans ex- 
poliated the war; the chief of the Mohawks received orders from the 
king, and invited the two confederate nations, the Oneidas and the On- 
ondagas, to unite against the common enemy; the band of the com- 
bined forces immediately crossed the river and ravaged a part of the 
country, and the enemy were compelled to sue for peace." 

It is not positively known where this great Indian Confederacy was 
established. In David Cusick's history of the Six Nations he relates 
the Indian traditions relative to the origin of the Confederacy, which 
was called " a Long House, the Wars, Fierce Animals," etc. He says: 

By some inducement a body of people was concealed in the mountain at the falls 
named Kuskehsawkich (now Oswego). When the people were released from the 
mountain they were visited by Tarenyawagon, i. e. , the Holder of the Heavens, 
who had power to change himself into various shapes; he ordered the people to pro- 
ceed toward the sunrise as he guided them and come to a river and named Yenon- 
anatche, i. e. , going round a mountain (now Mohawk), and went down the bank of 
the river and come to where it discharges into a great river running towards the mid- 
day sun; and Shaw-nay-taw-ty, i. e., beyond the pineries (now Hudson), and went 
down the bank of the river and touched bank of a great water. . . . The peo- 
ple were yet in one language; some of the people went to the banks of the great 
water towards the midday sun, but the main company returned as they came, on the 
bank of the river, under the direction of the Holder of the Heavens. Of this com- 
pany there was a particular body which called themselves one household; of these 
were six familie.s, and they entered into a resolution to preserve the chain of alliance 
which should not be extinguished in any manner. The company advanced some 
distance up the river of Shaw-nay-taw-ty (Hudson), the Holder of the Heavens di- 
rects the first family to make their residence near the bank of the river, and the fam- 
ily was named Te-haw-re-ho-geh, i. e., a speech divided (now Mohawk) and their 

' David Cusick's " Sketches o£ Ancient History of the Si.\ Nations." 



THE INDIAN OCCUPANCY. 15 

language was soou altered ; the company then turned and went towards the sunset- 
ting, and traveled about two days and a half, and come to a creek which was named 
Kaw-na-taw te ruh, i. e.. Pineries. The second family was directed to make their 
residence near the creek, and the family was named Ne-haw-re-tah-go, i. e.. Big 
Tree, now Oneidas, and likewise their language was altered. The company con- 
tinued to proceed toward the sunsetting; under the direction of the Holder of the 
Heavens. The third family was directed to make their residence on a mountain 
named Onondaga (now Onondaga) and the family was named Seuh-non-kah-tah, 
i. e. , carrying the name, and their language was altered. The company continued 
their journey towards the sunsetting. The fourth family was directed to make 
their residence near a long lake named Go-yo-goh, i. e., a mountain rising from the 
water (now Cayuga) and the family was named Sho-nea-na-we-to-wah, i. e., a great 
pipe, their language was altered. The company continued to proceed towards the 
sunsetting. The fifth family was directed to make their residence near a high moun- 
tain, or rather nole, situated south of the Canandaigua lake, which was named Jen- 
neatowake, and the family was named Te-how-nea-nyo-hent, i. e.. Passing a Door, 
now Seneca, and their language was altered. The sixth family went with the com- 
pany that journeyed toward the sunsetting, and touched the bank of a great lake, 
and named Kau-hagwa-rah-ka. i. e., A Cap, now Erie, and they went towards be- 
tween the midday and sunsetting, and travelled considerable distance and came to 
a large river which was named Ouau-we-go-ka, i. e. , a principal stream, now Missis- 
sippi. . . . The family was directed to make their residence near Cau-tanoh, 
i. e., Pine in Water, situated near the mouth of Nuse river, now in North Carolina, 
and the family was named Kau-ta-hoh, now Tuscarora and their language was also 
altered. . . . The Holder of the Heavens returns to the five families and forms 
the mode of confederacy which was named Ggo-nea-seab-neh, i. e., A Long Hou.se, 
to which are, 1st — Tea-taw-reh-ho-geh ; 3d — New-haw-teh-tah-go; 3d — Seuh-nau-ka- 
ta; 4th — Sho-nea-na-we-to-wan ; 5th — Te-hoo-nea-nyo-hent." 

Other authorities state that each nation was divided into eight clans 
or tribes, named respectively: Wolf, Deer, Bear, Snipe, Beaver, Heron, 
Turtle and Hawk. One of their rules was that no two of the same clan 
could intermarry. Each sachem had a permanent name — the name of 
the office he held — -and it descended to his successor. There were two 
sachemships, however, which forever remained vacant after the death 
of the original incumbents of the office. These were Daganoweda of 
the Onondagas, and Hiawatha of the Mohawks.' The first was the 
founder of the league and the second was his principal assistant. In 
honor of the great services, their sachemships were forever held 
vacant. 

Their organization is supposed to have taken place between 1900 and 
2000 years before Columbus discovered America, or between 400 B. C. 

' Both were supposed to have been of miraculous birth, and sent to the Indians to teach them 
the arts of government and peace. 



16 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and 500 B. C. While this account is purely traditional, it is the most 
authentic in existence. 

When the white intruders first discovered that such an alliance ex- 
isted, all that was known of the organization of the form of government 
so remarkable among a savage people was, as we have stated, a mere 
tradition. Each nation of the Confederacy was independent of every 
other in all matters of a local character, and in the councils no sachem 
was superior to another, except by reason of higher intellectual attain- 
ments, such as they might be. The fifty offices created at the organ- 
ization of the Confederacy were distributed among the nations according 
to their numerical strength. Of these offices the Mohawks had nine, 
the Oneidas nine, the Onondagas fourteen, the Cayugas ten and the 
Senecas eight. Although these offices were hereditary, no one could 
become a ruler or sachem until elevated to such a place by a council of 
all the sachems of the Confederacy. The sachems who, in council, 
constituted the legislative body of the union were also the local rulers 
of their respective nations. While a sachem had civil authority, he 
could not be a chieftain in war until elected to that position. Every 
sachem went on the warpath as a common warrior unless he had been 
doubly honored and made a military leader as well as a civil officer. 
The Iroquois nation then was practically a Republic, founded on much 
the same lines as the United States of America, marvelous as this may 
seem. 

The policy of the Iroquois nation in war appears to have been not for 
the sake of war alone, but for conquest and the extension of the nation's 
power and influence. Instead of trying to exterminate their foes, the 
Iroquois strove to subjugate and adopt them, and as far as they could in 
their weak way, to enlighten them. So successful were they in their 
efforts that at the end of the seventeenth century they dominated a very 
large portion of what is now the United States. The Iroquois of New 
York and the Algonquin tribes of New England were perpetually at 
war. The Mohawks and Oneidas occupied the Mohawk valley mainly, 
and the three nations west of them were compelled to pass through this 
region when starting out upon the eastern warpath. The most natural 
and convenient pathway for them to traverse was from the Mohawk 
valley eastward, leading them up from the Hudson to the valley of the 
Hoosick river, then across the Berkshire hills or the southern spur of 
the Green mountains to the valley of the Connecticut river. Over this 
trail the Five Nations marched on many occasions, according both to 



THli INDIAN OCCUPANCY. 17 

history and early tradition, and in and near the county of Saratoga 
many a bloody battle was fought by the red men of the wilderness. 

The Iroquois Indians were the bravest, most hardy, most industrious, 
most politic, most intelligent on the American continent. At the same 
time they were the most resolute and desperate fighters when an appeal 
to arms was made for the purpose of settling a dispute with anothertribe 
or nation. They were generally victorious. In 1G50 they invaded the 
country of the Hurons, to the north and west. The year following they 
practicallj' annihilated the Neutral Nation, and the next year they ex- 
terminated the Eries. In 1675 they reduced the Andastes or Conesto- 
gas, inhabitants of Pennsylvania and Maryland, involved them in war 
with Maryland and Virginia, when they abandoned their country and 
fled to the Roanoke, but were finally forced to submit to the Iroquois 
and return to the valley of the Susquehanna and Chesapeake. They 
penetrated as far westward as the Mississippi and as far southward as 
Southern Tennessee, compelling all the tribes inhabiting that region to 
flee before them. The tribes of New England and the Hudson valley 
trembled at their name and paid them tribute. Their fury was 
unbounded when in battle. They rightly deserved the title, " Romans 
of the West." 

Even many years after the first settlement of the country about Fort 
Orange, bands of the Iroquois, then of the Algonquins, passed through 
Saratoga county on their way to carry out their plans for laying waste 
the villages of the enemy. The famous old Wampanoag chieftain, 
King Philip, once invaded the county in the winter of 1G75-76, at the 
head of a band of 500 warriors bound for the north. His followers en- 
camped in the northern part of the county and prepared to strike a 
decisive blow at the Mohawks. In February, 167G, the Mohawks 
assembled and marched northward over the famous Indian trail leading 
through the county and, by reason of superior numbers and a better 
acquaintance with the field of the campaign, succeeded in driving the 
brave old chieftain and his band back across the Hudson River and 
through the Hoosick valley to the other side of the mountains. The 
famous old chief, Greylock, of the Waronoaks, the last chief of his 
tribe, also frequently passed through the county with his band of 
warriors. 

In 1628 the Mohawks declared war against the Mohegans, whose chief 
village was on or near the present site of Troy, and invaded the country 
of the latter. Half a century later Uncas and his little body of Mohe- 



IS OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

gans, now greatly reduced numerically, returned from the Connecticut 
valley, where they had been driven, crossed the Hudson to the present 
sites of Albany, Watervliet and Waterford, and slew many of their 
enemies, the Mohawks. Later on, upon the dissolution of the tribe, 
some of the Mohegans emigrated westward and joined the Iroquois, 
some of them even amalgamating with their ancient enemies, the 
Mohawks. 

The Mohawk Indians, many of whom inhabited the region now known 
as Saratoga county, were the most ferocious nation of the Iroquois Con- 
federacy. Aside from this characteristic, they were very much like the 
other nations of the Iroquois. Their most famous hunting-ground, Sa- 
raghto ga," was identical with the eastern portion of Saratoga county, 
and the western part of Washington county. In all probability, the 
land so called extended no further west than Saratoga Lake. 

The Mohawks visited in great numbers the mineral spring at Sara- 
toga vSprings now known as High Rock, and they appreciated the 
medicinal properties of its waters; for as early as 17G7 they induced 
Sir William Johnson to consent to be carried there from Johnson's Hall 
at Johnstown on a litter, having persuaded him that his frequently 
recurring sickness would be cured by frequent and regular drinking 
thereof. They also came from all over their territory to fish in Sara- 
toga lake and the Hudson river. 

Another famous hunting ground was Kay-ad-ros-se-ra," which lay 
west of Sa-raghto-ga. Wild animals came in vast numbers, even 
from the Adirondacks and the mountains of Vermont, and drank the 
mineral waters found in Kay-ad-ros se-ra, and the streams were filled 
with fish. 

Little by little the white men encroached upon the domain of the 
savages, and the latter, finally tiring of continual quarrelings with the 
intruders and the march of civilization, weakened in numbers and 
broken in spirit, began the sale of their possessions piecemeal. In 1G84 
Peter Philip Schuyler, and six other residents of Albany, purchased the 
ground known as Sa-ragh-to-ga, and the grant was confirmed by the 
English government. This grant was as follows:' 

' Sometimes said to liave been written " Se-rach-ta-gue." Dr. Hough, Uie historian, says 
that a Caughnawaga Indian informed him that the original word was " Sa-ra-ta-ke," meaning, 
"a place where the track of the heel may be seen." 

' The original for Kayaderosseras, according to Gauthier's map of 1779. 

' This grant is recorded on page 1.59 of Liber 5 of Deeds and Patents in the office of the Sec- 
retary of State at Albany. In connection therewith is recorded a map showing the location of the 



THE SARATOGA PATENT. 1!) 

Saratoga Patent — Thomas Dongan. Lieutenant and governor and Vice Admiral, 
under his Royall Highnesse James, Duke of York, &c., of New Yorke and its De- 
pendencyes in America. To all to whom these presents .shall come sendeth greet- 
ing. Whereas these following Maquaise Sachems, bothe of the first and seconde 
castles, viz., Roode Laggodischquese.x, Aihagure and Tuskanoenda, did, in the pres- 
ence of the Comander and Magistrates of Albany and all the Maquai.se Sachems, 
give and grant unto Cornelius Van Dyke, John Johnson Bleeker, Peter Phillipps 
Schuyler and Johannes Wendall, together with Dyrick Wessell, David Schuyler and 
Robert Livingston, who are equally concerned in the purchase of said tract of land. 

A certain Tract or Parcell of Land, situate, lyeing and being to the north of Al- 
bany, on both sides of Hudsons River beginning at the uppermost limitts of the land 
bought formerh' by Goose Garretson and Phillip Peterse Schuyler being a creek 
called Lioneende houwe, which is the Southermost Bounds of the said lands and from 
thence up both sides of the River Northerly to a Creeke or Kill on the East side of 
the River called Dionoon de houwe, the land on said Creeke included. Keeping the 
same length on the West side of the River and soe Runnes East and West into the 
woods as farr as the Indians Right and title to the within menconed Land afore re- 
cited as by a certain writing or Indian Deed bearing Date the 36th Day of July m 
the thirty-fifth yeare of his Matees Reigne 1683 Relacon being thereunto had doth 
more fully and at large appeare Now Know Yee that by virtue of the comicon and 
authority unto me given by his Royall Highnesse, James Duke of Yorke and Albany 
&c. Lord Proprietor of the Province of New Yorke in consideracon of the Premises 
and the Ouitt Rents hereinafter reserved, I have given, granted, Ratifyed and con- 
firmed and by these presents doe hereby Give, Grant, Ratifye and Confirme unto 
the said Cornelius Van Dyke, John Johnson Bleeker, Peter Phillipps Schuyler, Jo- 
hannes Wandell, Derick Wessells, David Schuyler and Robert Livingston their heires 
and assigns forever all the before recited Tract and Tracts, Parcell and Parcells of 
land and islands within the said bounds Together with all and singular Woods, Un- 
derwoods, Waters, Runnes, Streames, Ponds, Creekes, Meadows, Marshes, Fishing, 
Hawking, Hunting and Fowling and all other Libertyes, Priviledges, Hereditaments, 
Appurtts to the said Tract of land and Premises belonging or in anywise apper- 
taining. 

To Have and to Hold the said Tract of Land and Premises with all and singular 
appurtenances before menconed and intended to be Granted, Ratified and Confirmed 
unto the said Cornells Van Dyke, John Johnson Bleeker, Peter Phillipps Schuyler, 
Johannes Wandell, Derick Wessells, David Schuyler and Robert Livingston their 
heires and assignes unto the proper use and behoofe of the said Cornelius Van Dyke, 
John Johnson Bleeker, Peter Phillipps Schuyler, Johannes Wandell, Derick Wessells, 
David Schuyler and Robert Livingston their heires and assignes forever. To be 
holden of his said Royall Highnesse. his heires and assignes in free and common 
Soccage according to the tenure of East Greenwich in the county of Kent in his 
Matees Kingdome of England, Yielding and Paying therefore Yearlye and every 
Yeare as a quit rent for his Royall Highnesse use twenty Bushels of Good Merchant- 
property in question. This property extended from the mouth of the Battenkill, near Schuyler- 
ville, southward to Tenendaho creek, at Mechanicville, and from point to point, east and west from 
the Hudson river, six miles in botli directions. 



20 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

able winter wheate at Albany or before the 2th day of March unto such officer or 
Officers as from time to time shall be appointed to Receive the same. 

Given under my Hand and Sealed with the Seale of the Province at Fort James 
in New Yorke the fourth day of November in the thirty-sixth Yeare of the Raigne 
of our Sovereign Lord Charles the Second by the Grace of God of England, Scot- 
land, France and Ireland, King Defender of the Faith, &c., Annoq. Dom. 1684. 

Thos. Dong an. 

October 6, 1784, Kay-ad-ros-se-ra was sold to the province of New 
York, and four years later the entire estate came into the possession of 
Nanning Hermanse and several other wealthy men of Albany and else- 
where, by a patent granted by Qtieen Anne. But it was not until 
1768 that the first Indian deed was confirmed by the tribe. This done, 
and the Indian occupancy of Saratoga county was at an end. 



CHAPTER III. 



The French and Indian Wars — The Frequent Incursions of the French from Can- 
ada Into the Land of the Mohawks — Saratoga County a Bloody Battle Ground— The 
Iroquois and English Ever on Friendly Terms — Fate of Father Isaac Jogues — The 
Massacre at Schenectady — Battles in Saratoga County — The Old Saratoga Massacre 
— The Final Struggle — Sir William Johnson's Campaign — Fort George, Fort William 
Henry, Ticonderoga and Crown Point. 

The prime cause for the unwillingness of immigrants to establish 
homes in Saratoga county, and the slow progress made in the develop- 
ment of this fertile and advantageously situated tract of land by a civ- 
ilized people, lay in the long and seemingly interminable series of 
French and Indian wars, as they are known in history. For fully a 
century the contest for supremacy between the two powers. Great 
Britain and her colonists in America and France and her colonists, was 
continued. The early struggles were sporadic and without definite 
plan or organization on either side, but particularly so with the British. 
The colonists were anxious, on both sides, to have the question of 
supremacy settled, but one war followed another without definite re- 
sults, wearing out the colonists, exhausting their resources and leaving 
the new country in a most unsettled and wretched condition. Size and 
population considered, no community suffered more from this long 
struggle than did the county of Saratoga. - Attempt after attempt to 



THE FRKNCH AND INDIAN WARS. 21 

make permanent settlements within its borders was foiled, as has been 
seen in a preceding chapter, and liundreds, perhaps thousands, of the 
pioneers of the county were either killed in battle, taken prisoners 
and carried to Canada, or massacred. Once Great Britain had driven 
the French back to Canada, practically deciding the contest; but, to 
the despair of the wearied colonists, she refused to take advantage of 
the victory that she had so gloriously won, and made a treaty conced- 
ing to France all that the English colonists had won for her, after sac- 
rificing thousands of lives and a vast treasure. 

While most histories of the United vStates, in telling the story of the 
French and Indian War, refer only to the culminating conflict which 
began in 1754 and ended in l7G:i, the series of wars undertaken toward 
the end accomplished in that struggle began soon after the middle of 
the seventeenth century. The cause of the final war was the conflict- 
ing territorial claims of the two nations. It was the existence of this 
common cause, the integrity of English sovereignty and of the English- 
speaking people, that impelled the colonies finally to cease, in a meas- 
ure, their inter-colonial wrangles and act together against a common 
foe, as they again did in the war of the Revolution. For a long time 
prejudice, suspicion and mutual jealousy kept them apart; but when 
they came to understand that the great question was whether they 
should be subjects of Great Britain or of France, old antagonisms were 
thrown into the background or allowed to perish utterly, more charit- 
able sentiments prevailed, and the love for and the desire to protect 
and advance the interests of the Mother Country predominated. 

The seacoast had been colonized by England; the interior had been 
colonized by France. The Jesuit priests of the latter, from Quebec to 
Louisiana, had won the Indians by their grand religious rites and 
taught them to hate the English. Thus England had to defend herself 
against not only the Fi-ench but their powerful savage allies as well. 
La Salle's explorations had done much to strengthen the claiifts of the 
French to western territory, and correspondingly to weaken the position 
of the English. Before the middle of the eighteenth century France 
had the English colonists hemmed in their well settled territory along 
the Atlantic and was well prepared to defend her claims to the great 
unknown West. Of the North she already felt secure. The knowledge 
of her successful efforts in the West increased the long-standing ani- 
mosities between the colonists of the two nations. Finally, when the 
frontiersmen of the two nations had a conflict over the attempt to col- 



23 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

onize the Ohio valley, in the middle of the eighteenth century, the 
signal for the general inauguration of hostilities was hoisted and the 
final desperate struggle for national supremacy on the great American 
continent began. 

When Father Isaac Jogues made his famous journej^ into the land of 
the Iroquois, penetrating to the Mohawk valley, he invaded territory 
over which Holland claimed sovereignty. When, in 1666, the famous 
expedition headed by Marquis de Tracy, Sieur de Courcelle and Gov- 
ernor Daniel de Remi passed from the St. Lawrence to the Mohawk, 
through Saratoga county, over the same trail followed by the martyr 
Jogues, for the purpose of avenging the death of Tracy's young friend 
Sieur Chazy, who a short time before had been murdered by a Mohawk 
Indian at the mouth of the Chazy River, they invaded territory over 
which the English claimed sovereignty. But this expedition did not 
seem to bring the English to a realization of the danger that menaced 
them, for not even a mild remonstrance was made to the French gov- 
ernment. After the French invaders had pillaged the Mohawk villages, 
destroying the crops and burning the wigwams, they even went so far, 
by Tracy's order as to take possession of all the countiy of the Mohawks, 
in the name of the King of France. This ended the war of 1666, but 
it left the sovereignty to the land of the Mohawks in dispute and formed 
the great entering wedge for the bloody conflicts which were to follow. 
For both nations could not be supreme on the same territory. 

Comparative peace reigned for about twenty years after the expedi- 
tion of 1GG6. Then from 1686 to 1695 the Mohawks and the French 
continued the struggle, which had been renewed by the former in re- 
venge for the spoliation of their beautiful valley twenty years before. 
Prior to 1689 Governor Denonville of Quebec had been on unfriendly 
terms with the Iroquois for a number of years. In the meantime 
Governor Dongan of New York had become their warm friend and 
ally. The wrath of the latter was aroused when he heard that the 
French had invaded the country of the Senecas, seized English traders 
on the Great Lakes and erected a fort on the Niagara River. Summon- 
ing representatives of the Five Nations to meet him at Albany he 
induced them to swear eternal enmity against the French. His next 
step was to procure from King James II authority to protect the 
Iroquois as British subjects. This may be said to have been the prac- 
tical beginning of English participation in the struggle. 

In July, 1689, the Iroquois assembled and started in great force upon 



THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WARS. 23 

the warpath. Passing down the Mohawk to a point a short distance 
below vSchenectady they began their journey through .Saratoga county 
towards Quebec. They crossed Ballston Lake in canoes, then marched 
to the Mourning kill and descended into the valley of the Kayader- 
osseras, paddling to and across Saratoga Lake. Then, by way of the 
Fish kill, they entered the Hudson and sped northward. On August 5 
they reached Lake St. Louis, an expansion of the St. Lawrence a short 
distance above Montreal. Landing at Lachine in the midst of a terrific 
storm, late at night, they descended upon the ill-protected settlement 
and, with a war whoop, began the most awful massacre in Canadian 
history. Nearly every man, woman and child in the village was hacked 
to death, and the houses pillaged and burned. The garrisons in the 
three forts near by prepared to attack the 1,500 marauders the next 
morning, but word was received from Denonville for the troops to 
stand solely upon the defensive. Eighty men from a fort near at hand 
attempted to join the force assembled, but the Iroquois intercepted and 
almost annihilated the detachment. Late in October, after pillaging 
the country for miles in every direction and taking ninety prisoners, the 
Iroquois started homeward. On the west side of Lake St. Louis they 
spent an entire night in inflicting the most horrible tortures upon their 
prisoners, and it is even charged that in their awful rage they ate flesh 
from the bodies of some of their captives. They then continued their 
march southward, reaching the Mohawk valley in the early days of 
November, having lost scarcely a warrior from their ranks. 

In the meantime James II had been driven from England, William 
of Orange had seized the throne and war had been declared between 
England and France. Denonville had been superseded by Count de 
Frontenac, and the English colonists, assisted by the Iroquois, were 
about to attack the French. Frontenac, instead of opposing the Iro- 
quois, attempted to enlist them as his friends by conquering them. In 
January, 1690, a regiment of French and Canadian Indians left Mon- 
treal and directed their march to the south. They were formed into 
three parties — one to strike at Albany, one at New Hampshire and one 
at Maine. The Albany party was the first to march. It was composed 
of two hundred men. Over the old trail they passed, entering Saratoga 
coimty across the river from Fort Edward late in January. At Schuy- 
lerville they inadvertently took the road to Schenectady, instead of 
following the Albany trail. February 8, about dusk, they reached the 
Mohawk and crossed on the ice. About midnight they silently entered 



24 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the gate of the stockade surrounding the village of Schenectady, sur- 
rounded the houses and with a mighty war-whoop began the work of 
massacre and destruction. Thirty eight men and boys, ten women and 
twelve children were killed outright. A few inhabitants escaped and 
fled to Albany, barefoot, in a foot of snow. Between eighty andninet)' 
persons were captured. The next day the invaders started to return 
to Montreal, covering the same route over which the}' had come. 

The first call for a General Congress of the American colonies was 
made by Massachusetts in 1690 in accordance with a popular demand 
that the colonies should organize an armed force for common defense 
against the French and Indians. In accordance with the call commis- 
sioners from the colonies of New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, 
Virginia and Maryland met in the city of New York May 1, 1690, and 
agreed to raise a force of 855 men to repel the French and Indian inva- 
sion and if possible to wrest Canada from the French. The campaign 
was a disastrous one. In accordance with the suggestion of the Con- 
gress an expedition was fitted out and placed in the command of Gen- 
eral Fitz-John AVinthrop of Connecticut. Winthrop left Hartford July 
14, 1690. August 1 the expedition, which had been joined by one 
hundred and fifty Mohawk Indians, reached Stillwater and encamped 
for the night. The next morning he proceeded to Schuylerville, where 
a small blockhouse was occupied by a Dutch garrison. Here he re- 
ceived letters from Major Peter Schuyler of Albany, who had gone on 
to Fort Miller. August 4 he proceeded to the latter fort. On the 
night of the 4th he encamped with Major Schuyler and the Mohawk 
chiefs hear Whitehall. But small-pox had broken out among the army 
of Winthrop and the Indians, and as it wa? evident that there would 
be no hostilities, it was decided, August 15, to return to Albany, de- 
stroying a few of the minor forts. Captain John Schuyler, however, 
continued on down Lake Champlain and made a raid upon the Cana- 
dian settlement of La Prairie. Thus ended, with no results, the first 
English expedition against Canada and the French. A year later Major 
Peter Schuyler attacked the same place, but the raid was of no practi- 
cal benefit to the colonies. 

The next attack was made in 1693. Late in January Governor Fron- 
tenac dispatched six hundred and twenty-five men, including one hun- 
dred regular soldiers, a number of Indians and a large band of voyag- 
eurs to destroy the Mohawk castles and do all the damage possible in the 
vicinity of Fort Orange. On the night of February 16, after having 



THE FRENCH AND ENGLISH WAR. 25 

passed through' the eastern part of Saratoga county, the}' attacked two 
of the Mohawk towns, killed several of the inhabitants and made the 
rest captives. 

In the meantime the alarm had been sounded by the inhabitants of 
the valley, and a small but well equipped force, mostly on horseback, 
left Albany in command of Captain John Schuyler. Major Peter 
Schuyler also sent out scouts to watch the movements of the enemy. 
February 15 the Albany company, reinforced by a body of Mohawks, 
reached a point near Galway. Two days later, having ascertained the 
whereabouts of the invaders, they proceeded to Greenfield Centre. 
The enemy were now only three miles away. On the eastern border 
of the Palmerton mountains, in the town of Wilton, they had erected a 
fort after the Indian fashion. Before this fort the English and Mohawks 
soon appeared and a battle ensued. Neither party gained an advant- 
age and the fight was abandoned until morning. It snowed all night. 
The English suffered from lack of food, but the Indians boiled and ate 
the body of a Frenchman who had been killed in battle. During the 
night the Canadians retreated, and the English, half starved, refused 
to pursue their enemies. A day later, however, provisions arrived 
from Albany and the pursuit of the French was begun. But the French, 
when nearly overtaken, sent word that if they were attacked they would 
kill all prisoners. On hearing this the pursuit was abandoned and the 
English and Mohawks returned home. Tvvo years afterward, in 1(J95, 
the peace of Ryswick was declared, and there was no further contest 
in the Saratoga wilderness until the opening of Queen Anne's war. 

In 1709, during Queen Anne's war, another expedition against Can- 
ada was planned. Five regiments of British regulars were to be joined 
by 1,200 provincial troops, who were to proceed by sea to Quebec. 
Troops were also to proceed from Albany against Montreal, in com- 
mand of General Nicholson and Colonel Vetch, a nephew of Peter 
Schuyler, now a British colonel. June 1 three hundred men under 
Colonel Schuyler proceeded to Stillwater, where they built Fort In- 
goldsby. They also built stockaded forts at Saratoga, below the Bat- 
ten kill, on the east side of the river, at Fort Miller falls, at Fort Ed- 
ward, and at Fort Ann, calling the latter Fort Schuyler. All were well 
garrisoned, the forces having been increased to 1,150 men. While at 
Fort Ann sickness broke out and greatly reduced the British forces, 
which finally returned to Albany. In 1711 another army left Albany, 
but intelligence being received that the Queen's naval expedition had 



2G ' OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLK. 

been broken up by a severe storm on the St. Lawrence, the expedition 
returned to Albany, having accomplished nothing. 

In 1744 war was again declared between England and France. Dur- 
ing the period of peace the French had advanced up LakeChamplain as 
far as Crown Point, where they had erected Fort St. Frederick in 1731. 
In November, 1745, a French expedition, originally intended to attack 
the English settlements in the Connecticut valley, proceeded to Sara- 
toga On the 16th they attacked the village, killed thirty persons, took 
sixty prisoners and burned twenty houses. Among those killed was 
John Philip Schuyler, an uncle of General Philip Schuyler of Revolu- 
tionary fame. In 1746 the English rebuilt the fort there and named it 
Fort Clinton. August 39 of that year a band of French and Indians 
attacked a party of soldiers near the gates of the fort, killed four men 
and took four prisoners. June 11 of the following year an expedition 
from Fort St. Frederick, commanded by La Corne St. Luc, approached 
Fort Clinton. At daybreak the next morning a fierce battle ensued; 
but the French ambuscaded the English, killing twenty-eight and 
taking forty five prisoners. Several of the English attempted to escape 
by the river, but were drowned. Three or four months later Fort Clin- 
ton was deserted and burned by the English, leaving the French in 
control of the territory north of the jMohawk river. Peace was pro- 
claimed in May, 1748. 

The final grand struggle for supremacy between the French and 
English began in 1754 and continued until 1763. During these years 
great armies marched through Saratoga county, leaving thousands of 
dead upon its fields. The events of this closing drama are so well 
known that we shall simply touch upon those campaigns which took 
place within or partly within the borders of Saratoga county. The first 
of these was the famous expedition of Sir William Johnson, in 1755. 

The French had occupied Fort St. Frederick, at Crown Point, since 
1731. In order to drive them thence into Canada an army of five thou- 
sand provincial troops was raised. In the latter part of June, 1755, 
this army assembled at Albany, where it was joined byalarge party of 
Mohawk warriors under King Hendrick.' Early in July six hundred 

' " This celebrated warrior was, for a time, the most distinguished Indian in the colony of 
New York. . . . He was born about the year 1680, and generally dwelt at the Upper Castle of 
the Mohawk nation, although for a time he resided near the present residence of Nicholas Yost, 
on the north side of the Mohawk, below the Nose. He was one of the most sagacious and active 
sachems of his time. He stood high in the confidence of Sir William Johnson, with whom he was 
engaged in many perilous enterprises against the Canadian French; and under whose command 



THE FRENCH AND ENGLISH WAR. 27 

men proceeded to the site of old Fort Nicholson and erected a new fort 
which was named Fort Lyman,' in honor of the officer in command of 
the advance troops. Another detachment of the army soon afterward 
built Fort Miller/ at the rapids above Saratoga. 

August 8 General Johnson left Albany with the artillery, command- 
ing in person. The latter part of the month he reached the head of 
Lake George, intending to pass through to the outlet and fortify Ticon- 
deroga, better to enable him to operate against Crown Point. But the 
French had beaten him, had strongly fortified that point and garrisoned 
it with 3,000 men, under command of Baron Dieskau. The latter, ex- 
pecting an immediate attack, dispatched a force of 1,700 men to capture 
Fort Edward, drop down the river and menace Albany. September 7 
he pushed down to within seven miles of Fort Edward, then changed 
his plans and moved to the southern extremity of French mountain, 
where he encamped over night. 

Learning of Dieskau's movements, on the morning of the 8th Gen- 
eral Johnson sent out Colonel Ephraim Williams ' with a thousand 
troops and King Hendrick with two hundred Mohawk Indians. After 
marching four miles they fell into an ambuscade of the enemy, who 
opened a terrific fire. Colonel Williams at once changed the position 
of his men, but found himself in another trap. He fell, and Hendrick 
soon followed him. Men were cut down by the score, and the little 
army soon retreated precipitately. The dead bodies of Williams and 
Hendrick were left on the field. 

Soon Dieskau's army reached the English encampment, which had 
been hastily barricaded by logs. The camp was assailed in front and 
on both flanks. Johnson was wounded early in the fight, and General 
Lyman assumed command. After four hours of desperate fighting 

helped in the battle of Lake George, September 8, 1755, covered with glory. In the November 
number of the Gentleman's Magazine, for 10.55, is the following notice of his death: ' The whole 
body of our Indians were prodigiously e.xasperated against the French and their Indians, occa- 
sioned by the death of the famous Hendrick, a renowned Indian warrior among the Mohawks, and 
one of their sachems, or kings, who was slain in the battle, and whose son upon being told that 
his father was killed, giving the usual Indian groan upon such occasions, and suddenly putting 
his hand on his left breast, swore his father was still alive in that place, and stood there in his 
son.' " — Simms's Border Wars of New York, 1845. 

* The name was soon afterward changed to Fort Edward, in honor of Edward, Duke of York, 
grandson of George II. It stood upon the east bank of the Hudson, on the north side of Fort 
Edward creek. 

2 Named after Colonel Miller, commander of the force which built it. 

^ Colonel Williams was born at Newton, Mass., February 24, 1715. He served in King George's 
war; built Fort Massachusetts near Williamsfown, Mass.; foimded a free school at Williamstown 
which afterwards became Williams College. 



28 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Dieskau ordered a retreat, and he was severely wounded during his 
flight. The French retreated to the ground where the morning's en- 
gagement had occurred and prepared to encamp for the night. Mean- 
time Colonel Blanchard, in charge of Fort Edward garrison, two hun- 
dred of whom had been ranging the woods, hearing the cannonading, 
hastened to the scene. At nightfall they reached the French camp as 
a number of French soldiers were refreshing themselves at a pool. 
They fired on the enemy, and so great was the slaughter at the first fire 
that the pool became as a mass of blood.' The French soon rallied, 
but after a sharp fight fled in rout, leaving their packs and baggage, 
besides a number of prisoners, in the hands of the victors. This ended 
the fighting. The rout of the French army was complete The French 
loss was seven hundred killed, while the English lost two hundred and 
thirty. This engagement was one of the most important and decisive 
in the history of the country. 

Early in the summer of 1756 Colonel Seth Winslow, with 6,000 
troops, marched from Albany to Stillwater, where he erected a sub- 
stantial fort on the site of old Fort Ingoldsby, which he named Fort 
Winslow. He spent the summer at Lake George, and returned to 
Albany in the fall, having accomplished nothing. 

In the summer of 1757 Montcalm made a brilliant campaign in the 
country of Lake George. With a splendid force of 6,000 French and 
Canadians and 1,700 Indians he proceeded up the Sorel River, entered 
Lake Champlain and reached Ticonderoga. The object of his expedi- 
tion was to capture and destroy Fort Wdliam Henry, on Lake George. 
August 2 General Webb, commanding the English forces, sent Colonel 
Monroe from Fort Edward, with his regiment, to take command of the 
garrison at Fort William Henry. The garrison at this time numbered 
2,300 men, four hundred and fifty of whom occupied the fort, the re- 
mainder being posted in the fortified camp near the forts. The main 
army, about 4,500 men, remained under Webb's command at Fort 
Edward. August 3 Montcalm invested the fort. Monroe sent repeat- 
edly to Webb, asking for reinforcements, but the latter, one of the 
most worthless officers in the English army, did not even reply to these 
requests, though he knew of the superior force of the French at hand. 
Early in June General Johnson, realizing the weakness of the American 
position at this important point, had obtained permission from Webb 
to march to the relief of Fort William Henr}', but his force had scarcely 

' This pciiid has since borne the name of "Bloody Pond." 



THE FRENCH AND ENGLISH WAR. 29 

begun their march wlien they were ordered back to the posts. August 
9 Monroe was compelled to surrender. The ammunition was nearly 
exhausted and half the guns were burst. Montcalm granted honorable 
terms of surrender, but when the English forces evacuated the fort the 
Indians, in true savage style, fell upon the unarmed men and mas- 
sacred hundreds of them. Montcalm strove to put a stop to the 
butchery, but the savages could not be controlled. The remnant of 
the garrison finally reached Fort Edward in small parties, and Mont- 
calm, chagrined over the treachery of his Indian allies, burned the fort 
and retired to Ticonderoga. At the close of the war, after two years 
of reverses to the English cause, France possessed twenty times as 
much American territory as England and Spain together. The British 
flag had been disgraced by the imbecility of worthless English officers. 

English arms met with better success during the succeeding two 
years. In 1758, after the siege of Louisburg and its capitulation, 
Abercrombie started on his expedition. July 5, 15,000 men under Lord 
Howe reached Lake George and embarked for Ticonderoga. On the 
morning of the Gth, when the English were nearing the fort, they fell 
in with the French picket line, numbering no more than three hundred 
men. In the skirmish that ensued the French were overwhelmed, but 
not until they had inflicted on the English a great loss in the death of 
Lord Howe. Stricken with grief, the soldiers in the latter's command 
began a retreat to the landing. 

On the morning of the 8th the English engineer reported falsely that 
the fortifications of Ticonderoga were trifling. Again the army was 
put in motion, and when just beyond the reach of the French guns, 
the divisions were arranged to carry the place by assault. For more 
than four hours column after column dashed against the enemy's 
breastworks, which were found to be strong and well constructed. At 
six o'clock in the evening the repulse of the English was finally 
effected. The carnage was awful, the English loss amounting to 191G 
in killed and wounded. In no battle in the Revolutionary war did the 
British have so large a force engaged or meet so terrible a loss. 

Still the English might have returned and captured the fort, for 
they outnumbered the French three to one. But the weak Abercrom- 
bie returned to Fort George, at the head of the lake, and contented 
himself with sending a force of 3,000 men under Colonel Bradstreet 
against Fort Frontenac. The fort capitulated, counterbalancing Aber- 
crombie's dismal failure at Ticonderoga. 



80 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

In 1759 tlie gallant Amherst superseded Abercrombie as commander- 
in-chief of the British forces. In June of that year, at the head of 12,000 
men, he advanced to Lake George, where he began the construction of 
Fort George. The total French forces on Lakes George and Champlain 
now numbered but 2,000 men. July 22 Amherst invested Fort Ticon- 
deroga without firing a gun. Four days later the French blew up Fort 
Carillon at Ticonderoga, and retired to Crown Point, leaving the heavy 
artillery under a guard of twenty men. Upon the approach of the 
English forces they fled, and the entire French army retreated to the 
mouth of Lake Champlain. The remainder of that summer Amherst 
spent in rebuilding the splendid fortifications at Lake George, Ticon- 
deroga and Crown Point. 

Thus closed the campaign of 1758 and the conflict in Eastern New 
York. Though the treaty of peace was not signed until February 10, 
1763, Saratoga county and its environments were spared any further 
horrors of war until the famous campaign of General Burgoyne in 1777, 
the first decisive battle in the war of the Revolution. 



CHAPTER IV. 



Settlements in Saratoga County Prior to the War of the Revolution — The EarHest 
Permanent Settlement Made Along the Banks of the Hudson North of Half Moon 
Point, and Across the River from Schenectady — The March of Progress Northward 
Along the Hudson — Some of the Early Pioneers. 

Many years before the Indian inhabitants relinquished control of 
what is now Saratoga county, families of industrious whites settled 
in various parts of the county and founded homes. These pioneers 
came principally from England, Scotland, the North of Ireland and 
from the Netherlands. There were a few French families, some Can- 
adians and some from other localities — Massachusetts, Connecticut 
and the city of Albany. Few settlements were made, however, ex- 
cepting those in the extreme southern part of the county, until Great 
Britain had driven France from Canada and the long series of bloody 
French and Indian wars had come to a conclusion. 

But many white men had visited and partially explored the interior 
of the county long before permanent settlements were there effected. 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 31 

In the fall of 1609 Henry Hudson ascended the river which bears his 
name and probably reached the shallow water near the present site of 
Waterford, though the journal of his journey makes no mention of his 
having landed at that point. The immortal Jesuit father, Isaac Jogues, 
and his companions, Rene Goupil and Guillame Couture, who were the 
first white men to see the waters of Lake George, were carried prison- 
ers by the Indians through Saratoga county's territory to the Indian 
castles on the Mohawk. This was in August, 1642. In October, 1666, 
the Marquis de Tracy followed the same trail with his little army to meet 
the Mohawks and avenge the death of his young friend Chazy. In 1646 
Father Jogues made a second journey over the same trail, this time 
going as a missionary to the savages who, four years before, had sub- 
jected him to the most horrible tortures. The trail followed by both 
these travelers ran from the Hudson at Glens Falls along the foot of 
Mount McGregor, then crossed the whole length of Greenfield, passed 
near Lake Desolation and continued through Providence and Galway 
to Caughnawaga (Fonda), in the Mohawk valley. 

The early records of the county are so vague and meagre that the 
location of the first permanent settlements in the county cannot be ac- 
curately stated; but a concensus of the opinions of the most reliable 
. writers, founded on the colonial records, is to the effect that the first 
settlements were made in the extreme southeastern part of the county, 
on the banks of the Hudson, within a few years after the settlement of 
the country about Albany. These settlements were begun by the 
Dutch near Waterford some time not far from the middle of the sev- 
enteenth century, and possibly earlier than that date, though it is ex- 
tremely improbable that any permanent homes were established there 
prior to the year 1640.' It is probable, however, that as early as 1028 
or 1029 regular trips were made by the traders of Beverwyck to Half 
Moon Point, as the latter place was less than three hours' journey from 
the Fort. Beside this, the Mohawks made Half Moon Point a rendez- 
vous for trading with other tribes and among themselves, and the pass- 
age across the river was rendered comparatively easy by a ford from 
the Point across to Haver Island on the south. 

The names of the early Dutch settlers of Waterford — that is to say, 
the heads of the families — doubtless are included in the following taken 
from the census of the city and county of Albany in 1720: Jacobus 

' This may be assumed from the early records of the doings of the traders of Beverwyck, as 
Albany was then known. 



33 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Van Schoonhoven, Evert Van Ness, Daniel Fort, Cornelius Van Buren, 
Cornelius Van Ness, Isaac Ouderkirk, Lavinus Harmense, Teunis 
Harmense, Winant Vandenburgh, Roolif Gerritse, Hendrick Roolifse, 
John De Voe, Daniel Van Olinda, Eldert Ouderkirk and Cornelius 
Vandenburgh. These were enrolled as residents of Half Moon, but as 
the name Half Moon Point was then applied to what is now Waterford, 
and possibly adjacent territory of iaconsiderable proportions on the 
north, it is safe to assume that this list is a fairly accurate statement 
of the heads of families in Waterford and the country adjoining it on 
the north and west in that year. 

A very old record shows that on June 6, 1677, Jan Jacobus Van 
Noorstrant purchased from the widow of Goosen Gerritse Van Schaick 
a tract of land "bounded south by the fourth sprout of the Mohawk, 
west by Roelef Gerritse Vandewerker's land, north by the little creek 
close by Roelef Gerritse Vandewerker's house, and east by the river, 
containing about seven morgens of land." The limits of this purchase 
are very nearly identical with those of the existing corporation of 
Waterford. Going back still a little farther, November 23, 1669, 
Goosen Gerritse Schoonhoven or Goosen Gerritse Van Schaick sold a 
tract of land in Half Moon to Philip Pieter Schuyler. It is probable 
that the sale was made by Van Schoonhoven, as he and Philip Pieter 
Schuyler had received permission years before to buy from the Indians 
what is now Waterford, in order that immigrants from Connecticut 
might not purchase it and locate there. Van Schoonhoven's purchase 
undoubtedly was the first investment, with legal authority, of land on 
the present site of Waterford, and, furthermore, the evidence tends to 
show that he possessed practically the entire town. 

The next permanent settlement at that point of which any authentic 
records are left as to dates and names, occurred in 1784, when the land 
embraced in the site of the village of Waterford was purchased by 

Colonel Jacobus Van Schoonhoven, • Middlebrook, Ezra Hickok, 

Judge White and several other persons, most of whom had emigrated 
from Connecticut for the purpose of colonizing the fertile country at 
this point and founding a village at what they believed was and would 
remain the head of navigation on the Hudson River. There is 
abundant evidence, however, that several sturdy pioneers had located 
here prior to that year, for Half Moon had already been organized as a 
district (in 1772) and such commodities as the whites, but not the 
Indians, needed had been sent to that point by the merchants of Fort 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS 33 

Orange. Immediately after the English conquest of Canada in 1T60 
settlements rapidly extended along the valleys of the Hudson and the 
Mohawk, and even some distance into the interior. 

The fir.st settlement in Ballston was made in ITGo by Michael and 
Nicholas McDonald, natives of Ireland, who had been enticed on board 
a vessel lying in the Shannon, brought to Philadelphia and sold for a 
term of years to pay for their passage. Their wilderness home was 
located near the west bank of Ballston Lake. In 1770 Rev. Eliphalet 
Ball, with his three sons, John, Stephen and Flamen, and several mem- 
bers of his congregation, removed from Bedford, N. Y., and settled in 
the vicinity of Academy Hill. To induce him to locate in the town 
and establish a church and conduct regular services, he received a do- 
nation of five hundred acres of land from the proprietors of the famous 
"Five Mile Square " tract. vSoon after Mr. Ball-'s arrival large acces- 
sions to the settlement were made by immigrants from New England, 
New Jersey, Scotland and the North of Ireland, and in honor of Mr. 
Ball they named the locality Ball's Town. 

George Scott, grandfather of Hon. George G. Scott, and great-grand- 
father of James L. Scott of Ballston Spa, came from the north of Ire- 
land and settled in 177-1: in Ballston. His wife was a sister of General 
James Gordon. During the raid of 1780 under Colonel Munroe he was 
struck down by a tomahawk and left for dead, but he recovered. James 
Scott, his son, became a well-known surveyor. George G. Scott, son 
of James, became one of the most prominent residents of the town, 
which he served as supervisor for nineteen consecutive years. 

General James Gordon was the most conspicuous among the pioneers 
of his day. He came to America from County Antrim, Ireland, when 
a youth of seventeen. He settled in the town of Ballston and located 
on the farm on the Middle Line road now owned and occupied in the 
summer by George T. and Roland W. Smith. So important a part 
did General Gordon take in the early history of Saratoga county, 
that the following brief account of his life, containing historical 
statements of general interest, is appropriately inserted in this chap- 
ter. It is taken from a work entitled; "Family Records of Theo- 
dore Parsons Hall and Alexandrine Louise Godfroy, of ' Tannancour, ' 
Grosse Point, near Detroit, Michigan, including brief accounts of the 
St. Auburn, Scott-Gordon, Irvine-Orr and Navarre-Macomb families," 
collected by Theodore Parsons Hall and published in Detroit, Mich., 
in 1893: 
3 



■,i4 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

James Gordon, as a child, was furnished with every advantage of education ; was 
a fine classical scholar, destined for a profession ; but in a spirit of adventure set out 
for America in 1758, when a young man of but nineteen years of age. He had a 
relative in America named John Macomb, who, with his sons, was largely engaged 
in the Indian and Army supply trade, having stores at Albany, Fort Niagara and 
Detroit. John Macomb was from County Antrim, and married Jeanne Gordon, 
niece of Alexander. He was grandfather of Gen. Alex. Macomb, commander in- 
chief U. S. A. Gordon became a partner of the Macombs and later of their young 
clerk, John Askin of Detroit, a member of one of the old Canadian families. . . . 
The diary of Gen. Gordon, recording his adventures in his various journeys up the 
Mohawk to Oneida lake, thence via Oswego by canoe to Fort Niagara, and thence 
by canoe to Detroit, is of unusual interest. . . . Gordon spent the winter previous 
to the Pontiac outbreak, 1763, in Detroit, and at this early day, thirteen years before 
the Revolution, he traveled on horseback through the forests from Detroit to Pitts- 
burg, thence to Philadelphia and New York, to Albany. 

After a short visit to his old home in Ireland he converted his estate into money, 
returned in 1765 and purchased land in Saratoga, a district of Albany county (since 
the town of Ballston), and erected mills there. As early as 1708 Queen Anne had 
issued a patent for a tract five miles square where Ballston now stands. In 1763 a 
Scotch-Irish element, led by the Macombs, began a settlement there. In 1774 
Gordon, having induced his brother-in-law, George Scott, with his family, consisting 
of his wife, his daughters, his mother-in-law and her sister, also his own sister, to- 
gether with a number of their Scotch-Irish friends, to locate there, a town was laid 
out, to which they invited Rev. Eliphalet Ball, previously of Bedford, Westchester 
county, N. Y., who established a church there, 1775. The course of England to- 
wards some of the Scotch-Irish in Ulster had engendered a bitter feeling, which 
naturally led them to espouse the patriotic cause in the struggle for independence. 
After providing houses for themselves, some twenty-five settlers, male and female, 
.on September 22nd, drew up a covenant and founded there a Scotch Presbyterian 
Church. Mr. Ball was given a large tract of land (400 acres), and the place called 
Ballston in his honor. The father of Mr. Ball and Mary Ball, the mother of Presi- 
dent George Washington, were cousins. . . . James Gorden was from the start the 
leader and the life of the infant colony. He had married, March 16th, 1775, Mary 
Ball, daughter of Rev. Eliphalet Ball. At the outbreak of the hostilities in 1776, he 
raised a regiment, recruited largely in Albany, afterwards Saratoga county. Near 
the close of the war (1780) he was taken prisoner in an Indian raid led by a Tory 
named McDonald, and after the war closed he was visited at his home by President 
George Washington, Gov. Clinton and other leading patriots. He participated in a 
number of engagements in that vicinity, and was present at Burgoyne's surrender. 
While a prisoner in Canada he was confined in the RecoUet Convent, afterwards 
paroled for a time at Quebec, then escaped to Halifax, and was finally ransomed by 
his friend, James Ellice, for aheavy sum of money. . . . Gordon was commissioned 
Brigadier-General in 1786. Was a member of the Assembly 1777-8-9-80-4-6-7-8-9- 
90. Senator, 1797-1804. In May, 1779, he was elected a Representative in Congress 
over Hon. Jeremiah Van Rensselaer of Albany. The district included all Western 
New York. On the organization of Saratoga county in 1791 he was appointed Judge 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 35 

of the Court of Common Pleas, and died January 17th, 1810, aged 71, leaving one 
child, his daughter, Melinda Gordon, born January 30th, 1777.' 

Epenetus White, from Connecticut, located on the east side of Balls- 
ton Lake about the time General Gordon moved to Ballston, possibly a 
year earlier. His son, Epenetus White, jr., settled near the old iron 
spring in Ballston Spa about 1800 and engaged in merchandising till 
1838, when he built the old red mill which was burned in 1874. 

As early as 1770 Dr. Elisha Miller removed to Ballston from West- 
chester county, and settled on the east side of the lake, a short distance 
from the outlet. He was a practicing physician. During the war he 
removed his family to Schenectady, but returned himself to attend to 
his patients, frequently in the face of grave personal danger. He was 
a man of high attainments, and lived to an old age. 

James, William and Samuel McCrea, brothers, also settled in Balls- 
ton before the war. James occupied the farm now owned by Henry 
Harrison, two and a half miles southwesterly from Ballston Spa. Will- 
iam occupied the Henry Davis farm adjoining it on the south, and 
Samuel settled on the McCarty farm north of James's place, on the west 
side of the road. Joseph Morehouse, and Nathan Raymond, his brother- 
in-law, from Connecticut, settled on the east side of the lake before the 
war. Captain Titus Watson also settled in the town before the war, 
probably as early as 1772. He served in the war as lieutenant and 
subsequently as captain. His home was located on the east side of the 
lake. Edmund Jennings came from Connecticut in 1775. His son, 
Joseph Jennings, resided in Ballston Spa for many years. Zaccheus 
Scribner located on the east side of the lake in 1770. His son Thad- 
deus served in the Revolution, and afterwards was a mail carrier for 
man)' years. Stephen White, a nephew of Epenetus White, came from 
Connecticut before the Revolution and served in that war. Hezekiah 
Middlebrook, also from Connecticut, located in town in 1772, and in the 
following year removed to a large farm in the southern part of Milton. 
He became a prominent, wealthy and very influential resident of the 

1 " General Gordon, perceiving the need of a competent surveyor to lay out the new territory 
being rapidly settled after the close of the war, had his young nephew, James Scott, educated in 
this profession. Many of the most important surveys in Northern New York were made by 
James Scott, and his services as engineer utilized in a number of public work.s. He received 
from the Canadian government in payment of surveys, a large tract of land near the present city 
of Toronto. In 18011 he married Mary Botsford of Derby. Conn. He held a number of political 
offices, was master in chancery, and was final authority on all questions of land titles. Then- 
only child, George Gordon Scott, was born at the old homestead in the town of Ballston, May II, 
1811. The latter afterwards became Judge Scott, of .Saratoga county, New York." — Family rec- 
ords uf the Scott-Gordon Taniily. By Theodore Parsons Hull, Detroit, Mich., 1893. 



36 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

latter town. John Taylor, who is believed to have been the father of 
Hon. John W. Taylor, at one time speaker of the House of Represent- 
atives, owned a farm in Ballston before the Revolution, but the home- 
stead stood just over the Charlton line. About 1770 Ebenezer Sprague 
came from Connecticut and located on the Middle Line road, a short 
distance north of the farm subsequently owned by General Gordon. 
His property afterward passed into the hands of James Thompson, and 
is now occupied by Miss Rhoda Thompson. Beriah Palmer, who came 
from Connecticut during the early days of the war, or probably a year 
or so prior thereto, and settled on the farm recently owned by the late 
Hon. S. W. Buell, near Burnt Hills, became a prominent man in his 
community, serving for many years as magistrate, supervisor and town 
clerk. He was widely known as Judge Palmer. Others who came 
prior to or during the early days of the Revolution, were Uriah Bene- 
dict, from Connecticut, who located on the East Line road; Nathaniel 
Weed, John Cable, John Young, Robert Speir. grandfather of the sher- 
iff bearing the same name; William Barnes, Sunderland Sear.'^, Isaac 
Howe, Jabez Hubbell, Isaac Stow and the Davis family. The latter 
came about 1775 and located on the Middle Line road just north of 
Ballston Centre. 

Settlements were also made in Wilton at an early date. As early as 
1764 William and Samuel Brisbin, brothers, located in the limits of the 
present town, then known as Palmertown. They first located on the 
south branch of Snoek Kill, which subsequently became the Laing 
neighborhood. They made clearings and built a saw mill, but when 
the Revolution began they abandoned their homes and took up arms 
for the defense of the colonies. Rowland Perry, with his wife and 
eight children, removed from Dutchess county to Wilton in 1770. 
They entered the wilderness by way of a road cut by the Jessup family, 
early settlers of Luzerne, from Fort Miller, on the Hudson, by way of 
what are now Emerson's Corners and Wiltonville. The sons of this 
family bore the names of Samuel, John, Benjamin, Absalom, Roswell, 
Artemas, Rowland and Joseph. The McGregor family, after whom 
Mount McGregor is named, consisting of four brothers — James, Will- 
iam, John and Alexander, sons of John McGregor of Thorn Hill, 
Scotland — immigrated to New York in 1781, and in 1787 James and 
William settled near the site of Wiltonville. 

Elijah Parks was probably the earliest settler in Moreau. He came 
from Salisbury, Conn., in 1760, and with his sons purchased about 



EARLY SKTTLEMENTS. 37 

eight hundred acres of land at South Glens Falls. He erected the 
dwelling house afterwards known as Parks's Castle, and a saw mill 
near the falls. His sons resided with or near him, and a son-in-law, 
Lewis Brown, occupied a double log house above the castle. Tradi- 
tion says that when the war of the Revolution broke out there were 
twelve families living between Fort Miller and Fort Edward. 

Among these pioneers was Jacob Bitely and David J6nes. The lat- 
ter, who came from Leamington, N. J., had a wife and four sons, one 
of whom. Colonel David Jones, served under General Burgoyne. He 
was engaged to marry Jeanie McCrea, who was killed while being con- 
veyed from the home of Mrs. McNeil to the British camp, as described 
in another chapter. At the close of the war the Jones farm was sold 
to General Rogers, who took possession in 1783. The Hilton family 
located in the eastern part of the town, and Captaie Tuttle, of whom 
very little is known, lived at the mouth of Snoek Kill. 

The first record we have of the erection of any building in the town 
of Saratoga is the story of the convention held at Albany September 4, 
1689, when a resolution was passed authorizing the building of a stock- 
aded fort " about the house of Bartel Vroman at Sarachtoge, and twelve 
men raised out of the two companies of the city and two companies of 
the county, to lie there upon pay, who are to have twelvepence a day, 
besides provisions, and some Indians of Skachkook ' to be there with 
them, to go out as scouts in that part of the county." Bartel Vroman 
doubtless was the pioneer settler of Old Saratoga. 

While the exact date is uncertain, it is probable that the mills and 
other buildings erected by representatives of the famous Schuyler fam- 
ily of Albany on the south side of Fish creek stood there as early as 
1709. As this was twenty years subsequent to the year when Bartel 
Vroman 's house is mentioned in the record of the Albany convention 
referred to, it is not improbable that other settlements may have been 
made in that locality between the years 1089 and 1709. This opinion 
is strengthened by the knowledge that Colonel Peter Schuyler ' deemed 
it advisable to build a stockaded fort on the east side of the river in 
1709. This fort was located on a high bluff about a hundred rods be- 
low the mouth of the Batten Kill, upon which General Fellows placed 
his cannon before Burgoyne's surrender. It stood there for nearly 

' These were the Schaghticoke Indians, who occupied the territory about the mouth of Hoo- 
sictriver, in Rensselaer and Washington counties. 

5 Colonel Schuyler was then in the service of the government in comm.Tnd of the advance 
guard of the second great Army of Northern Invasion. 



38 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

forty years, but in 1747 it was abandoned and burned by the retiring 
English troops. If the Schuylers had mills at the point mentioned, 
somebody must have operated them, and consequently there must have 
been residences near by; but who these persons were probabl)- never 
will be known. 

The first village in the town of Saratoga of which any mention is 
made in history was called Saratoga, and was built about the Schuyler 
mills. In 174.5 it contained about thirty families, who in that year were 
attacked by the French and Indians, and either killed, captured or 
driven away. The dwellings in the village were then laid in ashes. 
The exact date of the destruction of this first Saratoga is given as No- 
vember 17, 1745, but no details of the bloody event are extant. Col- 
onel Peter Schuyler was killed in his own home, while fighting to de- 
fend it. 

It was not until after the peace of 1763 between England and France, 
when fear of massacre and pillage was in a measure relieved, that 
permanent settlements were made in Saratoga. Soon after the French 
were driven out and their Indian allies had stopped their depredations, 
the Schuyler mansion and mills were rebuilt by Philip iSchuyler, who 
afterward commanded the northern division of the patriot army in the 
war of the Revolution Then followed the immigration of a number 
of industrious, intelligent families, who came to work in the mills or to 
engage in farming or merchandising. About 1764 Abram Marshall 
came from Yorkshire, England, settling on the farm since known as 
the Marshall place. Thomas Jordan, his son-in-law, was also an early 
settler. Thomas Smith came from Dutchess county in 1770 and began 
the cultivation of an extensive farm. Hezekiah Dunham was another 
who located there before the Revolutionary war, in which he served. 
Joseph Welch came about 1765, served as a lieutenant in the American 
army, was taken prisoner and carried to Canada, where he was com- 
pelled to remain three years. John Strover bought a farm about 1770, 
but doubtless did not occupy it until the close of the war, in which he 
served with distinction as a scout. James I. Brisbin was a very early 
inhabitant, but whether he came before the war or not is unknown. 
Isaac Leggett and Gabriel Leggett settled in Stillwater, but their farm 
extended into Saratoga. They were founders of the Society of Friends 
here, as was also Tibbett Soule and George Davis, ante-Revolutionary 
inhabitants. vSherman Patterson settled before the war in the north 
part of what is now the village of Schuylerville. Colonel Van \'eghten 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 39 

who located at Coveville about 1773 or 1773, was a man of considerable 
local prominence. Conrad Cramer came as early as 17G3. John Woe- 
man, vSwart, William Green, and three brothers named Denney 

lived in the eastern part of the town when the war began. 

The most distinguished of all the families having interests in the 
town of Saratoga prior to the Revolution were the Schuylers, in whose 
honor the historic village of Schuylerville was named. An uncle of 
General Philip Schuyler settled at the mouth of Fish Kill quite early in 
the eighteenth century and erected some mills. .Some time prior to 
1767 General Schuyler came into possession of the estate. On his 
death it fell to his brother John, from whom it passed to the latter's 
son Philip, a nephew of the general. The latter became financially 
involved and the mansion, with the large farm surrounding it, was sold 
by his assignee to Colonel George Strover, a former agent of Schuyler's, 
who subsequently became active in raising funds for the Saratoga battle 
monument. The original Schuyler was killed at the destruction of the 
old village of Saratoga November 38, 1745. General Schuyler used 
the mansion he had inherited as a summer residence, he and his family 
spending the winter months at Albany. 

Settlements were made in Stillwater at a very early date, probably 
following closely upon those made at Half Moon Point. The Vanden- 
burgh family located as early as 1733 on the eastern side of the river, 
above the falls, and it is but reasonable to suppose that settlements 
occurred on the west side of the Hudson, in Saratoga county, soon 
after that date, if not prior thereto. Aside from the Schuyler mills in 
Saratoga and the village destroyed there in 1745, the earliest settle- 
ments on the west side of the river north of Half Moon Point occurred 
in Stillwater. Dates of the earliest habitations are lacking. As early 
as 176-1 George Palmer bought land within the limits of the town. He 
also bought mills already built there, which were then owned by Isaac 
Mann. These mills had been operated several years, and a consider- 
able colony had grown up about them, but whether they had been 
built five, ten, fifteen or even twenty years previous to their sale to 
Palmer is not known. As far as can be learned, therefore, Isaac Mann 
was the first white man to build a home and remain for any length of 
time in Stillwater. When he settled there cannot be told. 

In 1763 an entire church, numbering one hundred and one members, 
voted unanimously to remove to vStillwater, and the majority of them 
followed their resolution and did so. Thus it is seen that Stillwater 



40 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

village contained a considerable number of inhabitants at least a dozen 
years before the beginning of the Revolutionary war. The male mem- 
bers of the congregation who signed the agreement to remove to Still- 
water were: Henry Stevens, Gideon Lawrence, Zebulon Stevens, Uriah 
Stevens, Robert Campbell, George Palmer, Lemuel Taylor, Eber 
Andrews, Benjamin Green, Ephraim Andrews, Ebenezer Wolcott, 
Ephraim Andrews, jr., John Frisbie, ^Solomon Campbell, Robert Camp- 
bell, jr., Jonathan Morey (or Mowry), Titus Andrews, John Fellows, 
William Patrick, Daniel Campbell, Cyprian Watson, Edward Firel, 
Joel Frisby, Reuben Wright, Israel Rose, Isaiah Keeler, Amariah 
Plumb, Phineas Stephens, Jesse Howard, Robert Patrick, Joseph 
Stevens, Ebenezer Andrus and Benjamin Munger. Whether all these 
persons came or not is not certain. This church, now the Congrega- 
tional church of Stillwater, for many years known as "the church at 
the yellow meeting-house," was the pioneer religious society of Saratoga 
county. 

John Neilson, a native of New Jersey, came to Stillwater in 1772, at 
the age of nineteen years, determined to make a home here for himself. 
Three years later, after having worked in the meantime for a man 
named Quitterfield, living near Bemus Heights, he purchased a farm 
and married the daughter of his former employer. He became wealthy, 
and his sons and grandsons men of influence in the county. 

Harmanus Schuyler settled in Stillwater about 1770 and engaged in 
the milling business. His mill was on the Hudson, a short distance 
below the present village, and consisted of a flour and grist mill, a saw 
mill and a carding and fulling mill. He had a family of five sons and 
two daughters. Before coming to Stillwater he had been in business 
in Albany for several years. In that city he had served as high sheriff: 
from 1761 to 1770. He served as assistant deputy quartermaster- 
general under General Philip Schu3'ler, who was a relative and had 
charge of the construction 6f the boats used on Lake George. After 
the war he returned to his farm and mills at Stillwater, where he died 
September 1, 1796. 

John Bemus kept a tavern at the southern end of the flats that formed 
the strategic points in the battles of Saratoga. He was located there 
when Burgoyne began his invasion, and according to early historians 
he settled there at least as early as 17G2. Bemus Heights takes its 
name from John Bemus. 

Ezekiel Ensign settled above the creek at Wilbur's Basin about 1772 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 41 

or 1773, and owned a farm a mile square. When the news of Bur- 
gfoyne's approach came he removed his family to Albany, and upon his 
return he found his farm in the hands of the enemy and his residence 
in use as a British hospital. It is said several wounded officers in Bur- 
goyne's command died there and were buried in the rear of the house. 

Major Ezra Buell, who was one of the most useful and daring guides 
who served in the patriot army, came to Stillwater a few years before 
the war. He was a bachelor and died as such. He was the first crier 
of the county court. His death occurred in 1838, at the age of ninety 
years. John McCarty was another early pioneer, occupying a large 
farm at Wilbur's Basin which he purchased about seven or eight years 
before the war. Evert Vandenburgh owned one of the richest farms 
in the town prior to the war, His buildings were burned by the Brit- 
ish in 1777. Jeremiah Hart came from Connecticut about 1775 and 
settled on the east side of Saratoga lake. In 1777 he served as a scout 
for the American army. George Coulter was also living near the fa- 
mous " Freeman's farm " when the war broke out. 

Following closely upon the settlement of Half Moon Point' came the 
penetration into the wilderness to the north along the banks of the 
Hudson, the section now embraced in the town of Halfmoon. We 
have positive information from the old Albany records that several 
families, mostly Dutch settlers, lived there before 1080, but how many 
years before that date they removed there is largely a matter of con- 
jecture. In 1718 Killiaen Vandenburgh built a substantial stone house' 
about two miles north of Crescent, near the centre of the town. It 
was the most substantial house in that locality for many years. In 
1714 the district of Half Moon, which included Waterford, Halfmoon 
and Clifton Park, contained one hundred and one inhabitants, mostly 
Dutch settlers. Oldert Ouderkirk, Daniel Fort and Joshua Taylor 
lived in the town prior to 1763. The year before a saw mill had been 
erected on Steena Kill, near Crescent. The old Leland farm was oc- 
cupied in 17-1:8 by a famil}' who were massacred b}' a party of French 
and Indians in 1718. The barn on the place is known to have been 
erected in 1737. John Flynn, an Irishman, settled in the eastern part 
of the town in 1753 or 1753 and kept a tavern until the beginning of 
the Revolutionary war, when he removed to Albany. James Deyoe' 

1 The locality referred to in this chapter as Half Moon Point is now the town of Waterford. 
^ In later years this venerable residence became known as the Dunsbach house, havinj; fallen 
into the possession of the Dunsbach family. 

3 Mr. Deyoe lived to be 10-i years of age. His wife attained the age of 10.") years. 



43 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

came from Tarry town about 1770 and settled about two miles east of 
Mechanicville. Timothy Woodin came from Putnam county in 1768 
and located about two miles north of Crescent. Benjamin Rosekrans 
was another early settler. Jacob Wilsey, George Ellsworth, Richard 

Burtis, William Tripp, Swart, Joseph Reynolds and Ephraim 

Dunham all lived within the limits of the town prior to 1776. George 
Ellsworth was a soldier of the Revolution, grandfather of Captain 
Ephraim D. Ellsworth and great-grandfather of Colonel Ephraim Elmer 
Ellsworth, whose name occupies such a prominent position in the mili- 
tary history of Saratoga county. George Ellsworth's sons were named 
William, Charles, James and George. The latter married the daughter 
of Joseph Reynolds, the pioneer, and settled on the homestead. His 
son, Ephraim D. , married Phoebe Denton and settled in Malta, where 
Ephraim Elmer Ellsworth was born. 

In the spring of 1771 Dirck Schouten, who had been cultivating a 
small tract of land on the banks of the Hudson a short distance above 
Waterford, having heard of the mineral spring in the central part of 
the county (High Rock Spring), and doubtless appreciating the fact 
that this spot ultimately would be selected as a site for colonization, 
abandoned his rude home above Half Moon Point and started on his 
journey through the wilderness to the north. On the bluff a short dis- 
tance west of the spring he cleared a small tract of land, constructed a 
rude cabin and began the cultivation of the land. For a time all went 
well, but soon he began to be annoyed by, or himself anno3'ed, his In- 
dian neighbors, in the summer of 1773 he quarreled with them, and 
they finall}' drove him from his home. He never returned. He was 
the first inhabitant of the town of Saratoga Springs, and his onl}' white 
guest during his two years' residence there was a lad named Will- 
iam Bousman, son of a Dutch farmer residing near the south end of Sara- 
toga lake, who had accompanied Schouten for the purpose of helping 
the latter build his cabin and cultivate his new farm. 

In the summer of 1774 John Arnold, a young adventurer from Rhode 
Island, accompanied by his wife and young children, traveled to the 
springs, took possession of Schouten's deserted cabin and opened a rude 
tavern for the accommodation of visitors to the springs, who were be- 
coming quite numerous in the summer time. He brought with him 
some spirituous liquors, and other wares which he deemed suitable for 
the Indian trade, and found the savages good customers. The enemies 
were friendl_v, but he found many dangerous neighbors in the thick 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS. 43 

colony of rattlesnakes' which infested the hillside. Arnold remained 
at the springs two summers, returning to the Hudson valley, as did 
Schouten, in the winter season. He was succeeded in 177G by Samuel 
Norton, who remained throughout the entire year, thus becoming the 
first permanent settler of Saratoga Springs. He died before the close 
of the war. 

Settlements were made in Malta, near Round Lake, several years 
before the breaking out of the Revolutionary war. Early histories 
state that the first settlers were two men named Drummond and Mc- 
Kelpin, "who came before the Revolution and located west of the 
lake." These men were suspected of being Tories and were driven 
from the county. This being the case, it may be inferred that the 
town contained other inhabitants, patriots, to whom the presence of the 
suspected newcomers was unwelcome. It is possible that John Hunter 
and Ashbel Andrews and their families were here when Drummond 
and McKelpin arrived. Hunter came with the Connecticut colony to 
Stillwater in 1763 or 1704 and built a home near the lake. Robert 
Hunter, probably a relative, located here about the same time and 
cultivated a large farm. Michael Dunning, with a family of six sons 
and three daughters, located about 1772 on land now occupied by the 
hamlet of Dunning Street, nearly three miles north of Round Lake. 
He owned a large farm, and employed several hands to help him 
operate it. William Marvin secured a deed to land in Malta in 17G1, 
but the records do not show the time he removed to the town to occupy 
his possessions. Samuel Smith came from Norwalk, Conn., and settled 
near East Line some time before the Revolution. John Rhoades, 
Jehial Parks and Timothy .Shipman also lived here before the war. 

Northumberland's earliest pioneers are believed to have been James 
Brisbin and Hugh Munroe, both of whom came in 1765. The former, 
a native of Scotland, settled about a mile and a half west of Fort 
Miller, not far from Bacon Hill. His two sons, Samuel and William, 
located about the same time in Wilton. Munroe took up his abode at 
Gansevoort, where he built a residence and a saw mill on Snoek Kill. 
He was a Tory, and was compelled to flee to Canada at the outbreak 
of the Revolution. His property was confiscated by the patriots and 
his mill was destroyed. Mr. Graham settled in the same neighborhood 
before the war, but the year of his coming is unknown. He erected a 

' These reptiles were so numerous tlmt visitors frequently had to hang their beds from the 
limbs of the trees to avoid them. 



44 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

substantial residence, which was burned by the advance wing of Bur- 
goyne's army during his invasion of New York in the summer of 1777. 
John Mahawny (sometimes written Mahoney) removed to the town 
about 1709 or 1770. Archibald McNeil settled on the site of the 
village of Northumberland prior to the war. He was a wealthy retired 
gentleman from Boston and lived in elegant style. The Vanderwerker 
family also came before the war and lived about two miles above the 
village of Northumberland. Isaac B. Payne was another colonist who 
settled before the war nearly opposite the mouth of Moses Kill. 
Stephen and Nathan Payne lived near him. In 1773 Wynant Vanden- 
burgh, John Vandenburg and Cornelius Vandenburg, brothers, and 
Peter Winney, their brother-in-law, bought sixteen hundred acres of 
land, with a saw mill and grist mill which had been constructed before 
their arrival. In the fall of that year they occupied their lands with 
their families. The McCrea family, of which the historic Jane McCrea 
was a member, settled on the bank of the river, near the Payne farm, 
about 1773 or 1773. 

The earliest inhabitants of Charlton of whom there is any definite 
record was Joseph Gonzalez, who cleared a farm in the southwestern 
part of the town in 1770. Other families were located near his home, 
but their names are not known. He occupied the large farm yvhich 
came into the possession of Myndert Wemple at the close of the war of 
the Revolution. Three years later a number of Scotch-Irish families, 
people of intelligence and education, who had left Great Britain on 
account of religious oppression, sailed for New York. From that city 
they sent one of their number, John Cavert, to select a location for the 
little colony they proposed to found. Cavert explored the southern 
part of the county and finally selected a location in the northern part 
of the town, near the Ballston line. He returned to New York, and in 
the spring of 1774 the little colony — which meantime had located tem- 
porarily in New Jersey — prepared to occupy the new home he had 
selected. One of the first to arrive was Thomas Sweetman and his 
family from Freehold, N. J. He purchased one hundred and forty-five 
acres, a part of the Kayaderosseras Patent, his deed bearing date of 
July 2, 1774.' He was accompanied by his brother-in-law, David Max- 
well, who remained a short time, then returned to New Jersey, bring- 
ing his family back to Charlton the following spring. He was accom- 

' This was ihe first deed recorded in the Saratoga county clerk's office when the county was 
formed. 



EARLY SETTLEMENTS- 45 

panied by John Cavert, John Taylor, Joseph La Rue, James Valentine, 
William Chambers, John McKnight and several others, most of whom 
brought families with them. All laid out large farms and became suc- 
cessful tillers of the soil. Thomas Brown and William Clarke alsa 
located in the town in ante-Revolutionary times. 

The first permanent settlement in Galway was made by vScotch im- 
migrants in the fall of 1774. These men were John McHarg, William 
Kelly, John Major and James Major. William Kelly and his wife, a 
thrifty and hard-working couple, built a home about a mile south of 
Galway village. Their daughter Elizabeth, born November 1, 1774, 
was the first white child born in the town. The Major brothers located 
a short distance south of Kelly. James Kelly was killed by a tree he 
was felling September 11, 177G, and his death was the first in the town. 
The first colonists were soon followed by others, who included John 
McClelland, Joseph Newland, John McKindley, Moses McKindley, 
William McCartney and others. John McClelland reached Galway 
early in the winter of 1774 and established a home on the first cross 
roads south of Galway village. In 1780 he started the first store in the 
town and became a prosperous merchant. These were all the colonists 
of ante- Revolutionary times in the town of Galway of whom there is a 
definite record. 

As far as can be learned the town of Edinburgh contained no white 
inhabitants prior to the Revolution. Its location several miles further 
north, into the wilderness, than the other towns referred to and its 
comparative inaccessibility account for the lateness of its settlement in 
a large measure. Sir William Johnson had established a hunting and 
fishing resort at Fish House, a mile or so west of the bounds of the 
town, at a picturesque bend in the Sacandaga river, in Fulton county, 
and several whites had settled there. It is possible one or more fam- 
ilies may have found homes just over the line in the town of Edinburgh, 
but whether this is so or not will never be known. Godfrey Shew, a 
German lieutenant of Johnson's, lived near Fish House, but probably 
in Fulton county. 

Corinth was first settled at Jessup's Landing and near Mount Mc- 
Gregor, but in all probability not until the first year of or one or two 
years prior to the beginning of the Revolution. Ambrose Clothier 
located near the western side of Mount McGregor, in the southeastern 
part of the town in 1775. A short time later Samuel Eggleston located 
near the Eggleston homestead. It is not known if any others helped 
colonize the town before the outbreak of hostilities in 1775. 



4G OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Clifton Park, being located near the old city of Schenectady, was 
settled within a few years after the founding of that city. Seven years 
after Arendt Van Curler and his associates had established a colony at 
"the great flats of the Mohawk," on March 4, 16G9, Jan Verbeck, 
Philip Peter Schuyler and Peter Van Olinda purchased property form- 
ing a part of the Niskayuna Patent. October 31, 1G77, Claes Janse 
Van Boeckhoven and Ryck Claes Van Vranken also purchased of Har- 
man Vedder and Barent Ryndertse Smit land in the same patent lying 
within the limits of what is now the town of Charlton. Their pioneer 
homes were located near Vischer's Ferry. Even before this day it is 
believed that more than one white settlement existed in the town, for 
the adjoining locality of Half Moon Point, the land across the river in 
Albany county, and the adjacent territory in Schenectady county, all 
contained improved farms and substantial dwellings. This belief is 
strengthened by the knowledge that the soil of Clifton Park was as 
fertile and easy of cultivation as any in that section. But names and 
dates cannot be verified and future generations will never know the 
full story of the earliest development of the town. 

The census of Albany county taken in 1733 contains the names of 
the following residents of Nestigione, or Niskayuna, most if not all of 
whom lived within the limits of the town: John Quacumbus, John 
Ffort, Jacob Pearse, Derrick Brat, Maes Rycksen, Evert Rycksen, 
Gerrit Rycksen, Nicholas Van Vranken, Lapion Canfort, Cornelius 
Christianse, Eldert Timonze, John Quackenboss, jr., Peter Ouderkirk, 
Jacob Cluit, John Cluit, Frederick Cluit, Samuel Cruger, E)errick 
Takelsen, Mattias Boose Snor, and Johannis Christianse. Of these 
Quacumbus and Quackenboss probably were members of the same 
family, the progenitors of the Quackenbush family of today. The 
Clutes of Charlton are said to have descended from the Cluits of 
Nestigione. The name of Rycksen is said to have been another form 
for the name of Van Vranken. 

Andries Van Vranken lived many years before the Revolution at 
Fort's Ferry. His son, Garrett Van Vranken, was born there in 1760. 
Fully quarter of a century before the Revolution the families of John 

Smith, Davison, Thollheimer, Nicholas Vandenburgh, Abrara 

and Jacob Volweider were residents of the southern part of the town. 
Eldert Vischer was the first of the Vischer family in the town. His 
brother, Nanning Vischer, also lived here. John \'ischer was a justice 
of the peace in 1770. 



THE REVOLUTION. 47 

The most reliable authorities state that the pioneers of the t<.nvn of 
Milton were David Wood and his sons, Stephen, Benjamin, Elijah, 
Nathan and Enoch, who purchased six hundred acres of land a short 
distance west and northwest of the site of the village of Ballston Spa, 
in the vicinity of Milton Hill. They chose the most sightly and most 
fertile spot in that section of the county, and all prospered. There is 
no authentic record of any other settlements within the bounds of 
Milton prior to the Revolution. 

There is no record extant of any settlements during the period prior 
to the Revolution in the towns of Providence, Hadley, Greenfield or 
Day. Early settlements in these towns are described in the future 
chapters dealing with the towns of the county. 



CHAPTER V. 

EDITED HV MRS. ELI.EN llAKDIN \\ Al.WcjK I 1 1. 

Events Leading up to the Famous Campaign of 1777, Made by Gen. Joliu Bur- 
goyne — His Magnificent Army — General Schuyler m Command of the Northern 
Army — His Futile Attempts to Get Reinforcements — Burgoyne Takes Forts Ticon- 
deroga and Independence — Baum's Expedition against Bennington — Defeated by 
Gen. John Stark — British Failure at Fort Stanwix — Schuyler Superseded by Gates 
— The Battles of Saratoga — Death of the Valiant Frazer — Arnold's Gallant, though 
Unauthorized, Victory — Burgoyne's .Surrender. 

" The American Revolution in its earlier stages, at least, was not a 
contest between opposing governments or nationalities, but between 
two different political and economic systems." The King's Preroga- 
tives, Navigation Laws, Acts of Trade, and Writs of Assistance, were 
subjects of complaints between Great Britain and her colonies, and 
were among the causes which led up to the war of the Revolution. Yet 
the more immediate causes and events were connected with the results 
of the French and Indian war, which was closed in 1763 by the treaty 
at Paris, which recognized the extinction of the French empire in 
America. This war had been the military training school of the col- 
onists, and not onl)' military discipline, but independent and united 
action had moulded a new and fervent sentiment in the scattered col- 
onies. The futile efforts of Franklin and others for a union of the col- 



48 OUR COUNTY AXD ITS PEOPLE. 

onies, which had been attempted in 1704, and again at Albany in 1754, 
bore fruit in the Stamp Act Congress of 17G5, held in New York cit3\ 
From this date opinions and events rapidly developed and culminated 
in open hostilities. The plea of Great Britain that she had incurred a 
debt of one hundred and forty millions in the French and Indian war 
for the benefit of her colonies was resisted as unjust. The colonists 
urged that they had furnished a full quota of money and men, that the 
war had been waged in the interest of commerce and the aggrandize- 
ment of the realm; that the colonies were paying far more than their 
share through a monopoly of their trade by Great Britian. Irritation 
was augmented by the personal character of the reigning sovereign, 
King George III. Despotic in his ideas of government, stubborn, and 
devoid of magnanimous sentiments, or an appreciation of the common 
rights of humanity ; surrounded by ministers as incompetent as himself, 
his administration was odious to the people of England and intolerable 
to the colonists. 

The Stamp Act, which had been passed April 6, 17G4, was repealed 
in 17G6, amid great rejoicing in the colonies. A few thoughtful pat- 
riots dwelt on the Declaratory Act of the same Parliament, "that the 
king, with the advice of Parliament, had full power to make laws bind- 
ing America in all cases whatsoever;" a repeated enforcement of this 
principle in time aroused the independent spirit of the colonists to re- 
sistance. In the autumn of 176(5, companies of Royal Artillery arrived 
in Boston and were quartered on the inhabitants. This was the be- 
ginning of the end. Boston, in a town meeting, protested against an 
armed invasion. In 1772 the burning of the Gaspee at Providence, 
R. I., inflamed the people of that peaceful colony. This event also led 
to the establishment of the famous "Committee of Correspondence" 
between the colonies, Virginia leading in this important movement. 
In 1773 Philadelphia made a public demonstration against the project 
of the East India Company for transporting their accumulated stock of 
tea to America, and this demonstration was followed by the Boston 
"tea party." The Boston Port Bill passed by Great Britain as a 
punishment was eminently successful ; it brought ruin to the commerce 
of Boston, but it drew the colonists more closely together and resulted 
in the meeting of the first Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Sep- 
tember 5, 1774. 

Actual hostilities opened in 1775 with the battle of Lexington. Soon 
after Fort Ticonderoga, a strong work which had cost England forty 



THE SARATOGA CAMPAIGN. 49 

millions of dollars, was captured by Ethan Allen, and a mere handful 
of "Green Mountain boys;" then Crown Point came into possession of 
the patriots, without the loss of a single man. This brilliant opening 
of resistance to tyranny was succeeded by reverses and discourage- 
ments. In 1777 Washington's army numbered less than eight thou- 
sand men, many of them of the militia, and restless to return to their 
farms. It was upon farmers mainly that Schuyler must depend for 
reinforcements for the Northern Army, which was to meet the advanc- 
ing forces of Burgoyne. In the autumn of this year a gloom hung 
over the villages and farms of New York and New England ; depression 
was followed by dismay as the Indians grew more hostile, and the 
armies of Great Britain threatened invasion from the north. The 
militia men had left the army by hundreds and gone to their homes to 
harvest their crops. Repeated calls for enlistments were disregarded 
until the burning of Skenesborough (now Whitehall) by Burgoyne 
lighted up the northern horizon, and the urgent words of Washington 
addressed to New England aroused the minute men to a sense of the 
approaching danger. General Schuyler with his small army had been 
untiring in his efforts to obstruct the passage of the British southward. 
Trees were felled, bridges destroyed, and the roads made impassable 
for Burgoyne's artillery and wagon trains. This work, so unselfishly 
wrought by Schuyler while his enemies were active in their machina- 
tions for his downfall, was of invaluable service when the colonists 
were at last aroused tO' activity. At once, as by a common instinct, 
they turned from their rural pursuits, grasped the weapon nearest at 
hand, and hurried to join the little army under Schuyler which still 
lingered at the mouths of the Mohawk. 

Again General Schuyler asked for reinforcements for his insignificant 
army, but his appeal met no response except from Washington. The 
commander-in-chief, who had been holding Lord Howe in check in the 
Jerseys, though greatly in need of more men- himself, realized the sit- 
uation in the north. To Schuyler's assistance he, therefore, dispatched 
Morgan's corps of five hundred picked men, and also sent Arnold to 
help repel the approaching invaders. Colonel Lincoln, who was then 
in New England, was ordered to repair with his forces to Schuyler's 
command, and directed to attempt a flank movement upon Burgoyne 
toward the east. Washington also urged the commanders of militia in 
Connecticut and western Massachusetts to proceed with a large part of 
their commands to any point designed by General Schuyler. 
4 



50 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

In the latter part of June Burgoyne and his magnificent army reached 
Crown Point. There, on the 30th of the month, he issued his famous 
order containing these words: " This army must not retreat." July 1 
his command moved forward in battle array. One American position 
after another fell into his hands. On the night of July 5, St. Clair, 
finding that General Philips of the Royal Artillery had scaled the 
heights of Prospect Mountain, which commanded the fort, evacuated 
Forts Ticonderoga and Independence. On the seventh the fugitive 
Americans retreated from Hubbardtown, Vermont, after a sharp en- 
gagement. Retreat followed retreat in rapid succession, until Fort 
Edward was reached. The following day the British captured a large 
quantity of baggage, stores, and provisions at Whitehall. 

Up to this time General Schujder had remained in Albany awaiting 
the arrival of the expected and promised reinforcements from the south. 
As they had not arrived by the seventh, he started north with the small 
force he had collected, about one thousand five hundred men, leaving 
orders for the anticipated reinforcements to follow. Reaching Still- 
water he learned that Forts Ticonderoga and Independence had been 
abandoned. Hurrying on to Fort Edward he was met a week later, 
by St. Clair, with his command, which had suffered much in its long- 
march. 

Burgoyne remained at Skenesborough, the guest of Colonel Skene, 
a noted Royalist. General Schuyler, still using every possible effort 
to obstruct the progress of the enemy, fell back from Fort Edward to 
Fort Miller, again placing obstructions in the road he knew Burgoyne 
would follow, and finall)' retreated to Stillwater. Here he retained his 
headquarters, though prudently directing his little army to go into 
camp near the mouths of the Mohawk. 

Burgoyne advanced southward ver}' slowly, being compelled to cut 
new roads for his heavy artillery. It was not until July 13 that he 
arrived at Fort Edward, in the vicinity of which he remained until 
September 10. His difficulties and perplexities constantly increased. 
He had expected sympathy and assistance from the inhabitants, whom 
Colonel Skene had assured him were loyal, but he found them cold. 
Many homes were deserted. Provisions were difficult to obtain. He 
could not control his Indian allies, and soon his own humane and hon- 
orable sentiments were shocked and disgusted by the hideous murder 
of young Jeannie McCrea by a party of savages. This crime intensified 
the hostile feeling of the colonists, and Burgoyne would have rid him- 



MURDER OF JEANNIE McCREA. 51 

self of the savages but for the imperative commands of his govern- 
ment. He had the manliness to impose great restrictions upon their 
movements; but this aroused their resentment, and they deserted by 
hundreds. 

MURDER OF JEANNIE MrCREA. 

The murder of Jeannie McCi^ea was one one of the most fiendish and 
totally uncalled for atrocities ever committed by the Indians. About 
the year 17G8, two Scotch families, named McCrea and Jones respect- 
ively, removed from New Jersey and built pioneer homes in the woods 
on the west bank of the Hudson near and below Fort Edward. The 
Jones family, consisting of the mother (a widow) and six sons: Jona- 
than, John, Dunham, Daniel, David and Solomon, located about a 
mile and a half below Fort Edward, and the McCreas settled three or 
four miles farther down the river. Both homes were in the town of 
Moreau. Jeannie McCrea was the daughter of a Scotch Presbyterian 
minister. Her mother having died, her father married again, and she 
came to reside with her brother, John McCrea, on the banks of the 
Hudson. The latter, and his brother, Daniel McCrea, were staunch 
patriots. The Jones family, on the other hand, were Torries. In 1773 
Daniel McCrea was the first clerk of the first court held in Charlotte 
county, by Judge Duer, at Fort Edward. In 1775 John McCrea be- 
came colonel of the Saratoga regiment of the Albany county militia 
organized by the committee of safety. The treacherv of the Jones 
family is illustrated by the fact that in the fall of 177G Jonathan and 
David Jones raised a company of fifty men under the pretext of rein- 
forcing the patriot garrison at Ticonderoga, but by a trick they suc- 
ceeded in compelling the company to join the British at Crown Point. 
The following winter both went to Canada and received commissions 
in the British army — Jonathan becoming captain and David a lieuten- 
ant in the same company; and when Burgoyne invaded New York 
these men acted as guides in the attack against their own countrymen. 

At this time Miss McCrea was about twenty-three years of age and 
possessed of more than ordinary beauty of character and person. She 
is said to have been engaged to marry young Lieutenant David Jones, 
who now was an officer in the army which soon was to cause her death. 
She had been repeatedly admonished by her brother. Colonel John 
McCrea, to go down the river, as most white settlers had done, but she 
still remained near Fort Edward. The day before her death she went 



53 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

up the river, crossed over the ferry at Jones's place and went to the 
residence of Peter Freel, near the fort, where she remained that night. 
The next morning she went to the home of Mrs. McNiel, a cjuarter of 
a mile north of the fort. Mrs. McNeil was a cousin of General Frazer, 
of the advancing British army, and was doubtless about to seek his 
protection. 

The next morning (Sunday), July 27, the Americans at the fort had 
sent out fifty men under Lieutenant Palmer to watch the move- 
ments of the enemy. This party fell into an ambuscade prepared 
by the Indians, and in the fight that followed eighteen men, including 
young Lieutenant Palmer, were killed and scalijcd. The pursuing 
Indians halted at the foot of the hill and then rushed forward to 
the house of Mrs. McNiel. They seized the latter and Miss McCrea 
and started to join the main body of the savages. Soon the report of 
a gun was heard, and the beautiful girl fell from her horse. An Indian 
chief instantly sprang toward her and scalped her. Her body was then 
stripped and dragged into the woods, and the Indians, retaining Mrs. 
McNiel as a captive, proceeded to the ranks of the main British army. 

None of the Americans dared leave the fort that day, but the next 
morning they evacuated Fort Fdward and proceeded down the river. 
Before leaving they sent a detachment of men to the woods near by 
and found the body of the murdered girl near that of Lieutenant Palmer. 
Both were taken about three miles below Fort Edward and there buried. 
This tragedy served to arouse the patriots to an enthusiastic defense of 
their homes and families, and bound them in a common cause of resist- 
ance and revenge. Burgoyne deprecated the act but was powerless to 
punish the savages." 

THE BENNINGTON EXPEDITION. 

Burgoyne's next movement was upon Bennington, by which he in- 
tended to co-operate with the expedition of St. Leger upon Fort Stanwix, 
according to the original plan of his campaign. He had also been 
informed by Colonel Skene, in whose counsels he placed great confi- 
dence, that the Americans had collected at Bennington many horses 
and stores of all kinds for the use of the army of the north. Therefore, 
while his main army rested, he dispatched Colonel Baum with a body 

> In the inquiry into the failure of the campaign before the committee of the House of Com- 
mons, in 1770, General Burgoyne stated that after Jeannie McCrea had been taken by one band of 
Indians, another band came up and claimed her. To settle the dispute she was killed on tlie spot. 
This was the belief of the members of the McCrea family. 



THE BENNINGTON EXPEDITION. 53 

of German grenadiers, English marksmen, Canadians and Indians, five 
hundred in all, to make an attack upon Bennington and secure the 
needed horses and stores. Raum set out August 13, and so eager was 
Burgoyne to insure the success of the expedition that he rode after 
Baum to repeat his orders to him verbally. 

Burgoyne's entire force aggregated ten thousand men when he 
entered the territory of the colony of New York. Of these, seven 
thousand were British and Hessian veterans, the balance being Cana- 
dians and Indians. Several hundred of the latter had deserted by the 
time the Bennington expedition started, and a considerable force had 
been sent to the assistance of vSt. Leger at Fort Stanwix. 

The plan of the campaign embraced a descent upon Albany by way 
of Lake Champlain and the upper Hudson. From Albany it was Bur- 
goyne's intention to descend the river to New York and unite his forces 
with the main division of the British army. 

When the patriots of Bennington and vicinity learned of the intended 
raid of the enemy, General John Stark rallied the New Hampshire 
militia and prepared to defend the provincial stores from capture. He 
also dispatched a message to General Lincoln at Manchester, to for- 
ward reinforcements. 

On the morning of August 14 he proceeded from Bennington to a 
point about six miles on the road westward, where he met and at once 
engaged the enemy. A heavy rain fell the following day, but on the 
16th occurred the memorable battle of Bennington.' During the en- 
gagement, which was a fierce one, the patriot forces displaying remark- 
able valor. Colonel Breyman arrived with Hessian reinforcements. 
General Stark's command began to show signs of exhaustion when 
Colonel Warren arrived from Bennington with his regiment, fresh and 
full of fight. The action was then renewed, late in the afternoon, and 
the enemy was forced to retreat, Breyman leaving his baggage and 
artillery in the hands of the victorious patriots. Had not night covered 
the retreat, the patriot forces probably would have captured the entire 
expedition. 

The victory was as disheartening to the British as it was encouraging 
to the Americans, as the enemy not only failed to add to its depleted 
stock of stores, but also lost one thousand stand of arms and a number 
of fine field pieces. Nearly six hundred privates and thirty-two officers 
were also made prisoners of war. 

' So known in history, tliough practically the entire engagement occurred in what i.s now the 
town of Hoosick, Rensselaer county, N. Y. 



54 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

In the meantime, on August 3, St. Leger appeared before Fort 
Stanwix, but became alarmed by the stories of a large army en route 
to the relief of Gansevoort's garrison, and fled, leaving his arms and 
stores, which were secured by Col. Gansevoort. General Herkimer, 
marching to the rescue of Gansevoort, encountered Johnson's Royal 
Greens in the battle of Oriskany. In this desperate hand to hand con- 
flict the enemy was finally driven back. 

General Arnold, who, with the force dispatched by General Schuyler 
for the relief of Fort Stanwix, was but forty miles from that point 
when the news of the precipitate flight of the enemy was received, re- 
turned at once to the assistance of Schuyler. Reinforcements for the 
latter were also arriving from other directions. The long looked for 
regiments from the Highlands had arrived; the New York militia had 
rallied, and the New England forces, enthusiastic over the victory at 
Bennington, were on their way to join the camp at Stillwater. 

SCHUYLER SUPERSEDED BY GATES. 

At this juncture, when Schuyler was for the first time in a position 
strong enough to warant him in beginning offensive operations, when 
his spirits were high, when success was almost in his grasp, there came 
the blow which would have wrecked the lives of most aspiring men. 
It was the act of an ungrateful Congress by which he was superseded by 
General Gates as commander of the army of the north.' 

The first official act of General Gates after assuming command was 
to dispatch Kosciusko, the Polish engineer and patriot, to select a po- 
sition for the proposed advance camp of the Revolutionary forces. He 
decided upon Bemis Heights, four miles from Stillwater, as the most 

* " Scluiylcr was at last in a position to begin offensive operations; he would soon be able to 
point exultingly to the result of his toil, his patience, to the unappreciated difficulties no-w con- 
quered. Such we may imagine General Schuyler's thoughts, as he sprang on hishorse one bright 
morning in August, at the door of his stately mansion in Albany, when about to meet his officers 
for a consultation in regard to an advance movement of his army. As his charger moved rest- 
lessly under the rein, an officer approached with an official document. Schuyler, ever on the 
alert, checked his horse to e-xamine the dispatch. It contained the resolutions of Congress that 
deprived him of his command. This, in the face of the enemy, and at the turning point of his 
fortunes! A momentary movement of the lip, and a lifting of the eyebrows— then a deepening of 
the firm lines about the mouth, were the only signs of suppressed emotion. With a graceful bow 
to the waiting officer, the deeply injured commander rode quietly onto his headquarters. When 
surrounded by his officers he explained the dispatch, and simply said: " Until the country is in 
safety, I shall stifle my resentment." He kept his word, and with unremitting energy continued 
to perform the arduous duties of his comm.and, until his successor. General Gates, appeared at 
headquarters, where he was received and entertained by General Schuyler with generous 
magnanimity and dignity." — Battles of Saratoga, E. H. W. 



BATTLE OF SEPTEMBER 19. 55 

advantageous point, and the army soon afterward went into camp in 
that position and threw up earthworks for its defense. 

In the face of ever increasing dangers, Burgoyne pushed on south- 
ward, still undismayed. Sending a messenger to New York to beg for 
a movement from the south, he left Fort Edward with a month's pro- 
visions, crossed the Hudson on the 13th and 14th of September, and 
was soon encamped on the north side of Fish Creek, the outlet of Sara- 
toga Lake. 

The American camp was on a spur of hills that approached the river. 
Across the narrow meadow between the hill and the river earthworks 
were thrown up, covering the old colonial road and a bridge of boats 
across the river. Breastworks and redoubts were established at con- 
venient intervals. A natural defense along the front of the camp oc- 
curred in a densely wooded ravine, and a little further north Mill Creek 
ran through a still deeper ravine. The right wing, under Gates, occu- 
pied the river hills and the defile between these and the river; the left 
wing, under Morgan, was located on the heights nearly a mile from 
the river; the center, under Lamed, occupied the elevated plain. 
Arnold constantly harassed the enemy, with fifteen hundred men. 

THE BATTLE OF SEPTEMBER 19. 

September Iflth, at eleven o'clock in the morning, with his army di- 
vided in three columns. General Burgoyne advanced toward the Amer- 
ican camp. Riedesel, in command of the Hessian regiments, and 
Phillips with his artillery, comprising the left wing, marched down the 
river road. Burgoyne, commanding the British regiments, comprising 
the center, proceeded towards the heights on the right. Frazer, with 
his own and Breyman's corps, comprising the i-ight wing, moved to 
attack the American position from the west. 

About noon the attack began. Gates did not immediately order an 
attack on the Indians hovering near the fort ; but finally, in response to 
the repeated and urgent solicitations of Arnold and other officers, he 
consented to allow the savages to be driven off. 

The British army continued its approach. As soon as the word was 
given, Morgan and his riflemen led the way, driving the advancing 
enemy back with such rapidity that the commander was obliged to re- 
call them to quieter work. Frazer in his march to the west attempted 
to reach the rear of the American position, and Arnold, with Larned's 
brigade, made a dash to cut the right wing from the main army. Near 



56 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLK. 

Mill Creek the two forces met unexpectedly and a furious fight ensued. 
Arnold's and Morgan's men fought with unexampled energy, even 
ferocity. Heavy reinforcements came to the relief of Frazer's division, 
Gates neglected to send assistance and the valiant commands facing 
Frazer were retired. 

Arnold and Morgan now made a rapid counter march against Frazer's 
left, and in this movement encountered the whole English line under 
Burgoyne. 

They were now reinforced with four regiments, and made so vigor- 
ous and resolute an attack that they were on the point of severing the 
wings of the British army, when Phillips came forward with his artil- 
lery, and the Americans were forced back within their lines. It was 
now three o'clock, and a lull occurred in the contest. The two armies 
lay each upon a hillside, that sloped toward a ravine, which separated 
them. With the reinforcements conceded to Arnold, his force did not 
exceed three thousand men; yet, with this number, for four hours, he 
sustained an unequal conflict with the choicest English regiments, in- 
spired by every sentiment that ambition or desperation could awaken, 
and commanded by many of the most accomplished and brave officers 
of the English army. 

Steadily the patriots received charge after charge of the dreaded 
English bayonets; then, emboldened by their own endurance, they 
pushed upon the enemy in a fierce attack, to be driven again toward 
their own lines. While victory seemed thus to sway back and forth 
over the little stream, and while the Americans held the ascendancy, 
Riedesel came over the field at double quick with his heavy Germans, 
and pressed the exhausted Americans back once more. It was now 
dark ; they gathered up their wounded and prisoners, and i^etired to 
their camp. 

The American loss in killed and wounded was about three hundred, 
and the British nearly double that number. The latter held the field, 
and claimed a victory ; it was worse than barren to them. Foiled in 
their main object they were now burdened with many wounded; they 
had tested the strength of the Americans, and were convinced that their 
own advantages of discipline and ba3'onets were perfectly counterpoised 
by the enthusiam and courage of the patriots. The British, who bivou- 
acked on the field, were harassed until midnight by large skirmishing 
parties of the Americans, and were under arms in expectation of an 
attack in force. 



BATTLE OF OCTOBER 7. 57 

Arnold urged the importance of this attack with such vehemence that 
Gates took serious offense, although he failed to tell Arnold that he 
was short of ammunition — the reason afterwards given for his refusal 
to follow up the advantage of the previous day. In his report of the 
battle to Congress he refrained from mentioning Arnold's name. This 
led to a further quarrel, and Arnold was deprived of his command. 
Gates continued to strengthen the defenses of his camp, while his army 
daily increased in numbers. 

BATTLE OF OCTOBER 7. 

Burgoyne encamped his whole army on the ground he had gained 
on the 19th, and protected it with strong entrenchments. Strongly 
and skillfully posted, the two armies lay face to face from the 30th 
of September until the 7th of October. 

Our army was exultant, hopeful. The other camp seemed oppressed 
by the overhanging cloud of its impending fate. Difficulties enclosed 
them on all sides, leaving but one narrow pathway to the north; and 
that was soon closed by an active detachment of Americans from 
Lincoln's command. They had surprised the British garrisons at Lake 
George and Ticonderoga, and regained all the outer defenses of the 
latter place; had captured gunboats and bateaux, and taken three 
hundred prisoners. 

News of this calamity soon reached Burgoyne, yet he had some 
compensation in a gleam of hope that reached him from the south 
at the same time. A letter from Sir Henry Clinton was received, 
informing him that on the 30th he would attack the forts below the 
Highlands, and attempt a further ascent of the river. Two officers 
in disguise were immediately dispatched in return to inform Clinton 
of the critical position of Burgoyne's army, and urge him to hasten 
to its assistance. Clinton was also assured that Burgoyne would en- 
deavor to hold his present position until the 13th of October. 

Lincoln, who, with a large body of militia, now joined the army at 
Bemis Heights, was placed in command of the right wing. Gates took 
command of the left, of which Arnold had been dispossessed. The lat- 
ter had remained in camp, waiting patiently for a collision between the 
hostile armies. 

As Burgoyne's situation became day by day more critical, and he re- 
ceived no news from Clinton, on the 4th of October he called Generals 
Riedesel, Phillips and Frazer together in council. On the 6th he had 



58 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

five days' rations distributed, and arranged for a reconnoissance in force 
on the following day. As he could not leave his camp unprotected, he 
took only fifteen hundred men. They were selected from the corps of 
Riedesel, Frazer and Phillips. Led by these ofiicers in person, and 
Burgoyne as commander-in-chief, they marched out of camp at eleven 
o'clock on the morning of the 7th, and entered a field within three- 
quarters of a mile of the American left. Here, in double ranks, they 
formed in line of battle. 

On the left Williams's artillery and Ackland's grenadiers were posted, 
on a gentle hill in the edge of a wood that fronted on Mill Creek. Bal- 
carras's light infantry and other English regiments formed the right; 
the Hessians formed the center. Frazer, with five hundred picked 
men, was posted to the right and front, where a hill skirted the mead- 
ow; he was ready to fall upon the rear of the American left at the first 
attack in front. 

Foragers were at work in a wheat field, while the English officers 
reconnoitred the American left with their glasses from the top of a 
cabin near the field. An aide-de-camp conveyed this information to 
Gates, who said: " Order out Morgan to begin the game." 

Morgan had already discovered Frazer"s position, had divined his 
design, and formed his own plan. Ordering an attack to be made on 
Balcarras in front, he made a circuit in the woods to fall upon Frazer 
from the heights above. It was also arranged that General Poor should 
assail the grenadiers on the British left simultaneously with Morgan's 
attack. Larned was to check the Germans in the center. 

From their restraining earthworks the impetuous Americans poured 
furiously upon their adversaries in front, while Morgan swept down 
the height upon Frazer's heroic band. So terrible was the onslaught 
that in less than twenty minutes the British were thrown into con- 
fusion. Frazer, in his brilliant uniform, rode from side to side of the 
right wing, encouraging and rallying the bewildered troops, and pro- 
tecting every point with his flexible five hundred. 

. Burgoyne, seeing the right wing in danger of being surrounded, 
now ordered Frazer to form a second line to cover a retreat. In at- 
tempting this manoeuvre, Frazer fell mortally wounded, and was car- 
ried from the field. 

The division under Poor, with the same impulsive vigor, dashed up 
the hill upon the artillery and grenadiers of the British left, and drove 
them from their guns. Ackland brought them back, and recaptured 



BATTLE OF OCTOBER 7. 59 

the guns, which again fell into the hands of the Americans, who rapidly 
turned them upon the enemy, and drove them flying from the field. 
Ackland was wounded in both legs. He was a large, heavy man, but 
an officer took him on his back, and ran some distance with him. The 
pursuit was close, and the officer, fearing he would be captured, 
dropped his friend, and hurried on. Ackland now called out to the 
flying men that he would give fifty guineas to any man who would 
carr)' him into camp. ' A tall grenadier took him on his shoulders, but 
had not proceeded many steps when he and his helpless burden were 
taken prisoners. 

The Hessians still held their ground in the centre. At this moment 
Arnold, maddened by his injuries, and excited into frenzy by the clash 
and roar of the battle, dashed on the field, followed in the distance by 
Armstrong, Gates's aid-de-camp, carrying unsuccessful orders to com- 
pel his return. 

With two brigades Arnold rushed upon the Hessian center, who 
stood the shock bravely for a time, but as he dashed upon them again 
and again with a fury they had never before witnessed, they turned 
and fled in dismay. 

Burgoyne now took command in person, and the conflict became 
general along the whole line. Arnold and ilorgan, uniting to break a 
strong point in the British ranks, would again separate to move from 
one place to another, where orders or encouragement were necessary. 
Burgoyne succeeded Frazer as the conspicuous figure on the opposing 
side, and was seen in the thickest of the melee, under the heaviest fire. 
Several shots tore his clothing and his aids implored him not to expose 
himself, but resolute and daring, he endeavored skillfully, but vainly, 
to rally his army, and hold his ground. His whole force was driven 
into their entrenched camp. Here they made a determined stand. 
Arnold now took Patterson's brigade, and assailed Frazer's camp, 
where Balcarras and his light infantry had taken refuge. 

Charging with renewed vigor again and again up the embankment, 
he led the way over a strong abattis; driven back from this, he attacked 
the entrenchments connecting this redoubt with Breyman's flank de- 
fense. Here he succeeded, and leaving the Massachusetts regiments 
to follow up the advantage at that point, he encountered a part of 
Larned's brigade, and dashed upon the strong works of the Hessian 
camp. Here, too, he drove everything before him. Capturing the 
cannon, the artillerists fled in consternation, and Breyman was killed 



60 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

on the spot. Arnold's horse was shot under him; it fell on him, and 
his leg was severely wounded. He was carried from the field. 

The whole British camp now lay exposed to the pursuing Americans. 
Night and silence fell upon the scene. The groans of the wounded, 
the muffled words of command given for the burial of the dead, and 
the dirge-like wailing of the autumn wind in the tall pines, were the 
only sounds that followed the roar of artillery and the shouts of the 
victors. 

While the battle raged on the heights, confusion and sorrow reigned 
in and around the British camp near the river. After midnight General 
Lincoln from the American camp marched on the battlefield with a 
large body of fresh troops, to replace the e.xhausted victors of the pre- 
vious day. Burgoyne, aware of his danger, if attacked in his exposed 
position, now moved his whole army hurriedly, but in good order, to 
the river bank. Here, in gloomy desperation, they were crowded to- 
gether under the redoubts, on the morning of the 8th. 

Burgoyne now gave orders for a full retreat of his army, to begin at 
nine o'clock that same night, the wounded and all heavy baggage to be 
left behind. General Riedesel was ordered to lead the vanguard, and 
push on until he crossed the Hudson at the Saratoga ford, and there 
take a position behind the hills at the Batten Kill. A drenching rain 
poured upon the weary, plodding army the whole night. At Dogovat 
a halt was made. 

Starting from Dogovat at daybreak, the British moved again, but 
only to encamp during the day on the heights north of Fish Kill. The 
handsome residence of General Schuyler was burned on the way. 
During this time Colonel Fellows, with the American artillery, had 
planted his guns on the hills on the east side of the Hudson, opposite 
the British camp. General Stark had also taken possession of Fort 
Edward above. On the 10th, General Gates, having waited for fine 
weather, followed Burgoyne to Saratoga and encamped on the south 
side of the Fish Kill. His delay greatly endangered the detachment of 
Colonel Fellows, who could easily have been surrounded and captured ; 
in fact, some of Burgoyne's officers were anxious to make the attempt, 
but failed to obtain permission. On the morning of the 11th, while 
the autumn mist hung heavily over Fish Kill and the adjacent grounds, 
Gates, believing that Burgoyne had continued his retreat, ordered his 
whole army to advance across the stream in pursuit. Without a recon- 
noissance or vanguard, the army was set in motion. The vigilant Bur- 



BURGOYNE'S RETREAT. 61 

goyne, having now staked his chances on delay, was waiting eagerly 
for any mistake on the part of his adversary. Aware of the proximity 
of Gates, and of his intention, he drew up his army, under cover of the 
dense fog, in battle array, on the north side of the stream to receive 
him. The American regiments under Nixon passed over and were in- 
stantly attacked; a severe contest followed, and Nixon soon discovered 
the British in force; using his own judgment, and disobeying orders, 
he retreated, and checked the further progress of the army until com- 
munication could be had with Gates. 

Morgan had crossed the creek towards Saratoga Lake and, screened 
by the woods, posted his riflemen on the heights in the rear and flank 
of the British camp. This was strongly intrenched on the hill near the 
river, but was now entirely surrounded by the patriots, and all com- 
munication destroyed either with the north or south ; and it was soon 
found by the British that their camp was exposed in every part to the 
fire of cannon or riflemen. 

Sir Henry Clinton, having obtained reinforcements from England, 
at last came storming up the Hudson as though he would annihilate all 
obstacles between himself and Burgoyne. He obtained possession of 
Fort Montgomery and Clinton, although they were most courageously 
defended by Gov. George Clinton and his brother James, who very 
skillfully saved their garrisons. The British easily destroyed the ob- 
structing boom across the river, and Putnam, deceived and confused by 
their manoeuvres, left the enemy to sail unmolested to Albany. Sat- 
isfied with the destruction of the American vessels, and having burned 
Kingston, the seat of the government, and ravaged the stately manor 
houses of Livingston and other aristocratic republicans, the Englishman 
returned to New York, and left Burgoyne unassisted in his perilous 
position. 

He had now only five days' rations for his army, and not a spot where 
he could hold a council of officers in safety. On the 13th he called them 
together to consider their desperate condition, and there "General 
Burgoyne solemnly declared, that no one but himself should answer for 
the situation in which the army found itself." Three questions were 
then submitted for their consideration. "1st. Whether military his- 
tory furnished any example of an army having capitulated under sim- 
imar circumstances. 2d. Whether the capitulation of an army placed 
in such a situation would be disgraceful. 3d. Whether the arm}' was 
actually in such a situation as to be obliged to capitulate." These were 



63 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

answered in the affirmative, and there was a unanimous declaration in 
favor of capitulation. The terms of surrender were then discussed. 
A messenger was sent to General Gates, who agreed to an armistice. 
A meeting of officers to represent the commanders of the respective 
* armies was arranged to take place on the spot where General Schuyler's 
house had stood. 

The terms proposed by Burgoyne required that his army, upon its 
surrender, should be marched to Boston, and from there be shipped to 
England. Gates refused this proposition, and demanded an unconditional 
surrender as prisoners of war. BurgoN'ne rejected these terms indig- 
nantly. 

The armistice ceased. Burgoyne prepared for the worst. 

Gates now heard of Sir Henry Clinton at the Highlands. His fears 
were aroused; he dispatched a message to Burgoyne, in which he 
agreed to almost every article of the first proposition. Burgoyne gave 
his assent to these terms. Some further negotiations were in progress 
in regard to points of minor importance. News of Sir Henry Clin- 
ton's expedition now reached Burgoyne. Again delusive hopes awoke 
in his heart. He hurriedly called his officers together to consider 
whether they could honorably withdraw from the agreement to sur- 
render. It was held that honor held them fast, although the papers 
were not signed. On the 17th of October, the capitulation, or conven- 
tion, as Burgoyne stipulated it should be called, received the signa- 
tures of the two commanders. Gates and Burgoyne. 

The British army were now marched out of their camps, under their 
own officers, to a plain near old Fort Hardy, where the Fish Kill emp- 
ties into the Hudson. Here, in the presence of only one American, an 
aid-de-camp of Gates, they laid down their arms. Generals Burgoyne, 
Riedesel and Phillips now passed over the Fish Kill to the headquar- 
ters of Gates, who rode out to meet them accompanied by his aids. 
When they met, Burgoyne said: " The fortunes of war, General, have 
made me your prisoner;" to which Gates replied: "I shall ever be 
ready to bear testimony that it has not been through any fault of your 
excellency." 

The American army were drawn up in ranks on either side of the 
road. The whole army of British prisoners, preceded by a guard bear- 
ing the stars and stripes, and a band playing Yankee Doodle, were 
marched between the files of their victors. 

Gates and Burgoyne stood contemplating the scene. In the presence 



,1 1B1 



CAPITULATION OF BURC.OYNE. 63 

of both armies, General Burgoyne stepped out, and drawing his sword 
from its scabbard, presented it to General Gates; he received it, and 
silently returned it to the vanquished general. 

The surrendered army numbered 5,791 men, six of whom were mem- 
bers of the British Parliament. A splendid train of brass artillery, 
consisting of forty-two pieces, together with nearly 5,000 muskets, and 
an immense quantity of ammunition and stores, was the further fruit 
of this famous victory. 

The importance of this triumph upon the fortunes of the American 
struggle for independence is undisputed. The battle of Saratoga is de- 
clared upon high authority to be one of the fifteen decisive battles of 
the world. The reactionary feeling it called forth in the colonies, 
after the disasters and anxieties of the campaign of the previous year 
in Canada, strengthened public sentiment in favor of the patriotic 
cause, and filled the depleted ranks of the army. It led directly to the 
indispensable assistance received from France, and thus to the later 
recognition of other foreign governments. As in the last French and 
English war, the campaign of 1759, which embraced the rocky heights 
of Quebec, the great water line of New York, and the western posts on 
the Great Lakes, was the decisive campaign; so by this one of 1777, 
similar in construction, it was proposed by the English king and his 
American minister. Lord Germaine, to divide and crush the colonies 
and terminate the war. 

Articles of Convention between Lieut. -Gen. Burgoyne and Major- 
Gen. Gates; 

I. The troops under Lieut. -Gen. Burgoyne to march out of their camp with the 
honors of war, and the artillery of intrenchnients to the verge of the river where 
the old fort stood, where the arras and artillery are to be left; the arms to be piled 
by word of command from their own officers. 

IL A free passage to be granted to the army under Lieut. -Gen. Burgoyne to Great 
Britain, on condition of not servmg again in North America during the present con- 
test; and the port of Boston is assigned for the entry of transports to receive the 
troops whenever Gen. Howe shall so order. 

in. Should any cartel take place by which the army under Gen. Burgoyne, or any 
part of it, may be exchanged, the foregoing articles to be void as far as such exchange 
should be made. 

IV. The army under Lieut. -Gen. Burgoyne to march to Massachusetts Bay by the 
easiest, most expeditious and convenient route, and be quartered in, near, or as con- 
venient as possible to Boston that the departure of the troops may not be delayed 
when the transports shall arrive to receive them. 

V. The troops to be supplied on their march, and during their being in quarters. 



64 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

with provisions by Gen. Gates's orders, at the same rate of rations as the troops of 
his own army; and, if possible, the officers' horses and cattle are to be supplied with 
forage at the usual rates. 

VI. All officers to retain their carriages, battle horses, and other cattle, and no 
baggage to be molested or searched, Lieut. -Gen. Burgoyne giving his honor that 
there are no public stores secreted therein. Major-Gen. Gates will, of course, take 
the necessary measures for the due performance of this article. Should any car- 
riages be wanted during the transportation of officers' baggages, they are, if possi- 
ble, to be supplied. 

VII. Upon the march, and during the time the army shall remain in quarters in 
Massachusetts Bay, the officers are not, as far as circumstances will admit, to be sep- 
arated from their men. The officers are to be quartered according to rank, and are 
not to be hindered from assembling their men for roll call and the necessary purposes 
of regularity. 

VIII. All corps whatever of Gen. Burgoyne's army, whether composed of sailors, 
bateaux men, artificers, drivers, independent companies, and followers of the army, 
of whatever country, shall be included in every respect as British subjects. 

IX. All Canadians and persons belonging to the Canadian establishment, consist- 
ing of sailors, bateaux men, artificers, drivers, independent companies, and many 
other followers of the army who come under the head of no particular description, 
are to be permitted to return there; they are to be conducted immediately by the 
shortest route to the first British post on Lake George, are to be supplied with pro- 
visions in the same manner as other troops, are to be bound by the same conditions 
of not serving during the present contest in North America. 

X. Passports to be immediately granted for three officers, not exceeding the rank 
of captain, who shall be appointed by Lieut.-Gen. Burgoyne, to carry dispatches to 
Sir William Howe, Sir Guy Carleton, and to Great Britain, by way of New York, 
and Major-Gen. Gates engages the public faith that these dispatches shall not be 
opened. These officers are to set out immediately after receiving their dispatches, 
and to travel the shortest route, and in the most expeditious manner. 

XI. During the stay of the troops in Massachusetts Bay, the officers are to be ad- 
mitted on parole, and are to be allowed to wear their side arms. 

XII. Should the army under Lieut.-Gen. Burgoyne find it necessary to send for 
their clothing and other baggage to Canada, they are to be permitted to do so in the 
most convenient manner, and the necessary passports granted for that purpose. 

XIII. These articles are to be mutually signed and exchanged to-morrow morning 
at nine o'clock, and the troops under Lieut.-Gen. Burgoyne are to march out of their 
intrenchments at three o'clock in the afternoon. 

Signed, Horatio G.-vths, Major.-Gen. 

Signed, J. Burgovne, Lieut.-Gen. 

Saratoga, Oct. IG, 1777. 



THE ATTACK ON HALLSTON, 65 



CHAPTER VI. 

The Attack on the Hallston Settlement by Munroe and His ISanii of Tories and 
Indians — Capture of Col. James Gordon and Others and Their Imprisonment in 
Canada —Escape of the Captives and Their Return to Their Homes — The Invasion 
Under the Command of Joseph Bettys, the Notorious Renegade — His Valiant Serv- 
ices to the American Government — Piqued at Being Unrewarded for His Valor, He 
Turns Spy in the Service of the British — His Capture — Tried and Executed as a 
Spy— Major Mitchell's Peril— End of the War. 

For three years after the Burgoyne invasion Saratoga county enjoyed 
comparative peace, though the war continued through other parts of 
the colonies. General Gates had been given command of the Army of 
the South, though he had demonstrated little but incompetence. Corn- 
wallis had pressed a vigorous campaign in the South and had com- 
pletely subdued South Carolina. Georgia had already fallen into the 
hands of the enemy and North Carolina was aboat to be invaded. 
France had come to our rescue a little more than a year after the vic- 
tory at Saratoga, but still the patriots lost ground everywhere. The 
inhabitants of Saratoga county shared in the general gloom which 
enshrouded the nation. Then, while the whole country was expe- 
riencing the shock caused by the intelligence of the treachery of the 
gallant Arnold, who had done so much to save the day at Saratoga, the 
country suffered from the British raid known as the Northern Invasion 
of 1780. 

The British government intended to make this invasion one of con- 
siderable strength and importance, but the original plans failed to carry 
and the blow spent itself in an attack on settlements in the central part 
of the county — at Ballston. The British hoped, with the assistance of 
Canadian militia and a band of Canadian Indians, to subdue at least the 
northern part of the colony. They also believed that many disaffected 
persons residing in the valleys of the Hudson and Mohawk could be in- 
duced to join the royal cause. Many of the men were in distant parts 
of the country engaged in warfare, and the opportunity for conquering 
the northern country seemed to be ripe. The Albany authorities had 
been put on their guard regarding this contemplated iiavasion early in 
5 



66 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the summer of 1780, but tlie details of the plan could not be learned. 
The sunnncr months passed with nothing alarming except one or two 
small raids in the Mohawk valley, and it was confidently believed that, 
with the approach of winter, nothing would be done by the enemy in 
these latitudes. 

But the Americans reckoned falsely. Early in October, 1780, Major 
Carleton left Canada at the head of an expedition, entering New York 
by way of Lake Champlain. At Crown Point two hundred men were 
landed for the purpose of proceeding either to Schenectady or Ballston. 
The main body, about eight hundred men, was reserved to attack Fort 
Anne and Fort George. The first detachment was in charge of Cap- 
tain Munroe, a Tory, who before the war had been a trader at Sche- 
nectady and had been more or less actively interested in the settlement 
of Saratoga county. It consisted of a few men from Sir John John- 
son's corps, a number of rangers (some of whom were refugees from 
the settlement at Ballston), and a party of Mohawk Indians headed by 
"Captain John," their chief. Munroe's orders were to proceed to- 
wards Schenectady and reconnoiter. If conditions were favorable, that 
village was to be attacked. If not the band should fall upon Ballston, 
plunder, burn and take prisoners, but to kill no one unless attacked or 
resisted. 

Major Carleton's command moved rapidly to the attack of Foit Anne, 
which surrendered upon demand October 10. The British burned the 
fort and made the garrison prisoners. The next day the garrison at 
Fort George also capitulated after a short engagement, and tliis fort 
likewise was destroyed. During his brief stay in this vicinity Carleton 
sent out numerous marauding parties, who destroyed by fire all the 
propertj^ belonging to patriots they could find, principally in the west- 
ern part of Washington county, in Warren county and in the extreme 
eastern part of Saratoga county. About the middle of the month this 
expedition returned to Canada, having accomplished little except the 
destruction of property belonging to American farmers. 

But the detachment under the Tory, Munroe, met with more exciting 
times. They followed the old Indian trail, crossing the Sacandaga in 
the town of Hadley, passing through Corinth and Greenfield, and en- 
camped for several days in the northwestern part of the town of Milton. 
They remained hidden in the woods, nobody knowing of their presence 
except some Tories, who kept them supplied with provisions. Here 
learning through scouts and Tories, that the small fort at Ballston had 



CAPTURE OF COLONEL GOKDEN. 67 

been garrisoned by two hundred militiamen from Schenectad}-, and 
that Schenectady, too, was well defended, they concluded to proceed 
no farther than the mansion of Colonel Gordon.' 

The inhabitants of Ballston had been expecting an invasion of this 
character. During the early fall some of them even abandoned their 
homes at night and lodged in the woods, carrying with them many of 
their valuables. They had been frightened by the massacre at Cherry 
Valley two years before and the more recent ravages of the Mohawk 
valley; but as the autumn progressed and the long expected attack did 
not come, their confidence in their security returned. Colonel Gordon 
had been serving as a member of the Assembly, and during September 
and October he had been at Kingston, then the capital of the State, 
attending a special session of the Legislature which had been convened 
by Governor Clinton. This session adjourned October 10 and he started 
for home, reaching Ballston October 13. Munroe was informed of his 
return and made preparations to capture him. 

On the evening of October 10 the invading band stopped at the resi- 
dence of James McDonald, which stood about a mile west of Court 
House hill. From that point McDonald, a Tory who hated the patriot 
Gordon, led the party through the woods to the rear of Gordon's home. 
Awakened by the crashing in of his windows, the gallant patriot sprang 
from his bed, in which his wife and young daughter lay, and partly 
dressing himself, entered the hall, where he was confronted by a num- 
ber of Indians. One of them aimed a terrific blow with a tomahawk, 
at Gordon's head, but a Tory officer caught the savage's arm in time to 
prevent the murder. The party then began to plunder the house, and 
several made an attempt to fire it, but were prevented from so doing 
by some of the officers. Colonel Gordon was made a prisoner, as were 
two of his servants, John Parlow and Jack Colbraith, and three negro 
slaves, Nero, Jacob and Ann. 

Just before the party reached the main road Isaac Stow, Colonel 
Gordon's miller, came running towards them shouting: "Colonel 
Gordon, save yourself 1 The Indians !" But seeing his employer a cap- 
tive he turned to run, when he was killed and scalped by a savage. 

While one section of the invading party attacked Gordon's house, a 

* This mansion was located on the Middle Line road, on the estate now owned by George T. 
and Roland W. Smith, sons of the late Andrew Smith of Ballston .Spa. The fort mentioned 
above was cnnstnicted of oak lojjs surrounded with pickets. It stood on the southwest corner 
of the square, a mile and a half from Gordon's liouse, at the red meeting house, then in course of 
construction. 



68 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

part of them crossed the Mourning Kill, which flowed near Gordon's 
home, and captured Captain Collins and his female slave. Manasseh 
Collins, son of the captain, succeeded in escapinj:^ through an upper 
window and ran to the fort and gave the alarm. Meanwhile, the 
enemy continued up the Middle Line road and captured Thomas Bar- 
num, John Davis, Elisha Benedict and his three sons, Caleb, Elias and 
Felix Benedict; Dublin, Mr. Benedict's slave; Edward A. Watrous, 
Paul Pierson and his young son John, John Higby and his son Lewis, 
George Kennedy, Jabez Patchin, Josiah Hollister, Ebenezer Sprague 
and his sons, John and Elijah Sprague; Thomas Kennedy, Enoch 
Wood, and a man named Palmatier, living near Milton Centre. 

While the marauders were between the homes of John Higby and 
George Kennedy, in the town of Milton, about fifty of them in command 
of Lieutenant Frazer, a Tory wlio had resided near Burnt Hills, left 
the main party and attacked the residence of George Scott. The latter, 
awakened by his watchdog, armed himself with his musket and went 
to the door. Not obeying the command to throw down his gun, he was 
almost instantly prostrated by the blows from three tomahawks thrown 
at him at the same moment. Lieutenant Frazer and Sergeant Spring- 
steed, a refugee who had formerly been in Scott's employ, prevented 
the savages from scalping the prostrate patriot, though all believed 
him to be dying. The party left and joined the main body after pillag- 
ing the house, leaving Scott in a dying condition, as they believed.' 

About daylight the invaders and their captives crossed the Kayade- 
rosseras near Milton Centre and prepared for the march to Canada. 
Munroe, the Tory commander, informed his little army that they prob- 
ably would be pursued, and gave orders that, should any sign of pursuit 
be discovered, every prisoner must be killed." But there was no pur- 

* George Scott miraculously recovered, lived for some years after this, and died May 31, 1782, 
aged sixty years. His children were thenceforward brought up and educated by the Gordon 
family. 

^ Munroe was subsequently dismissed from the British service in disgrace for having given 
such an inhuman order. His property had already been confiscated by the American govern- 
ment, so that he was left without property and with a stain upon his name from which he never 
recovered. 

The first man in front of Gordon was a British regular, a German, who was next behind Cap- 
tain Collins and had charge of him, Gordon's captor was a ferocious savage. Gordon afterward 
related that he heard the soldier say to Captain Collins : " I have been through the late war in 
Europe, and through many battles, but I never before have heard such a bloody order as this, I 
can kill in the heat of battle, but not in cold blood. You need not fear me for I will not obey the 
order. But the Indian in charge of Gordon is thirsting for his blood, and the moment a gun is 
fired Gordon is a dead man." The prisoners expected that the troops from the fort would over- 
take them and fire upon the party, and that every captive would be killed. 



THE CAPTURE OF COLONEL GORDON. 69 

suit. That night the party encamped about two miles north of Lake 
Desolation, where Munroe released Ebenezer Sprague, Paul Pierson 
and his son John, and George Kennedy. 

In the mean time Gordon had succeeded in sending back a private 
message advising the forces at the fort of Munroe's inhuman order and 
requesting that no attempt at rescue be made. Captain Stephen Ball, 
at the head of the militia at the fort, had already started out to effect 
the release of the prisoners; but fortunately Gordon's messenger met 
the former in the town of Milton and the relief expedition returned to 
the fort. The retreating Tory and Indian force continued the march 
northward with their captives. Arriving at Bulvvagga bay October 24, 
they joined Carleton's division of the army and proceeded down Lake 
Champlain to St. John's, and thence to Montreal. Arriving in that 
city the patriots were imprisoned in the Recollet convent, but were 
soon afterward transferred to a jail. After remaining in Montreal until 
spring Colonel Gordon was removed to Quebec, where he was kept in 
prison for two years. He was afterward transferred to the Isle of Or- 
leans, but subsequently was ransomed for ^3,000 by his friend James 
Ellice, a member of the trading firm of Phynn& Ellice of Schenectady, 
with whom Gordon had had large commercial transactions. 

Another brief account of this thrilling incident follows:' 

In October of this year [1779], the enemy, about two hundred strong, under Major 
Monroe, consisting of British regulars, tories and Indians, entered the Ballston 
settlement. An invasion had been anticipated, and two hundred Schenectada 
militia were sent to aid in protecting the settlement. A church, called afterwards 
the red meeting-house, was being erected at the time, and opposite and near it, a 
dwelling owned by a Mr. Weed was inclosed in pickets, at which place the Sche- 
nectada troops were stationed. About the same time, the Ballston militia, thinking 
the troops sent to aid them were not sufficiently courageous, erected a small defence 
on Peai'son's Hill, afterwards called Court House Hill, nearly two miles in advance 
of the stockade named, and where the invaders were expected to enter. The little 
fortress on the hill was guarded several nights, but as the enemy did not appear it 
was abandoned. 

The second night (Sunday night) after the Ballston troops dispersed, the enemy 
broke into the settlement. They made their first appearance at Gordon's Mills, sit- 
uated on a stream called the Morning kill, entering the public road at the foot of the 
hill noticed. Col. James Gordon, who commanded the Ballston militia, and Capt. 
Collins, an active partisan officer, living near him, were both surprised at their 
dwellings, and borne into captivity, with nearly thirty of their neighbors. On the 

• This account is taken from the " History, of gchoharie County, and Border Wars of New 
York," by Jeptha R. Simms, published in 1845. This author gives 1779 as the year in which this 
invasion took place. 



70 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

arrival of the enemy at the house of Capt. Collins, Mann Collins, his son, escaped 
from it, and gave the alarm to John and Stephen Ball, his brothers-in-law. The 
latter mounted a horse, and rode to the house of Maj. Andrew Mitchell (Major * 
under Col. Gordon) who, with his family, fled into the fields, and escaped. The 
Balls also communicated intelligence of the enemy's proximity to the Schenectada 
troops at the Fort. 

At Gordon's Mills, one Stowe, his miller, was captured on the arrival of Monroe's 
party, and, for some reason, soon after liberated. Feeling himself obligated to Col. 
Gordon, he thought it his duty to inform him of his danger, and afford him a chance 
of escape. Crossing a field with that laudable intent, he met an Indian, who, seeing 
a fugitive, as he supposed, attempting to escape, thrust a spontoon througli his body, 
and instantly killed him. 

Great numbers of cattle and hogs were driven away at this time, or killed, several 
dwellings and out-buildings burned, and the whole settlement greatly alarmed by the 
invaders, who proceeded directly back to Canada by the eastern route. Among the 
dwellings burned were those of one Walters, one Pearson, several Spragues and 
several Patchin.s. Two dwellings, a little north of the present residence of Judge 
Thompson, owned at the time by Kennedys, escaped the torch, as they had a friend 
among the invaders. 

The troops assembled in the neighborhood were on their trail by daylight on Mon- 
day morning, and followed some distance; but meeting a liberated captive, who bore 
a message from Col. Gordon advising the Americans to abandon the pursuit, it was 
given over. Why the message was sent, I am not informed, but presume he either 
thought the enemy too strong to warrant it, or the prisoners in danger of assassina- 
tion if a hasty retreat was necessary. Col. Gordon was an Irishman by birth, and 
a firm patriot. He was confined in a Canadian prison for several years, and was one 
of a party of six or eight prisoners, who effected their escape in the latter part of the 
war, and after much suffering succeeded in reaching home. Henry and Christian 
Banta, Epenetus White, an ensign of militia, and several others, neighbors of Col. 
G., and captured subsequently, also escaped with him. Procuring a boat, the fugi- 
tives crossed the St. Lawrence, and from its southern .shore directed their steps 
through the forest, coming out at Passamaquoddy Bay, in Maine, where they found 
friends. Before reaching a dwelling the party were all m a starving condition, and 
Col. Gordon gave out, and was left, at his request, by his friends, who proceeded to 
a settlement, obtained assistance, returned, and bore him in a state of entire help- 
lessness to a place of safety, where he recovered. 

While the party were journeying they agreed that if either of them obtained any- 
thing to eat, he should be permitted to enjoy or distribute it as he chose. In the 
forest, to which the trapper had not been a stranger, one of the number found a 
steel trap, in which an otter had been caught, and suffered to remain. It was mostly 
in a state of decomposition. The leg in the trap was whole, however, and a sight of 
that. Col. Gordon afterwards assured his friends, looked more inviting to him than 
the most savory dish he had ever beheld; but pinching hunger did not compel a vio- 
lation of their agreement — his mouth watered in vain, and the finder ate his dainty 
morsel undisturbed. When the fugitives arrived at the house, and asked for bread, 
the woman told them she had not seen a morsel in three years. After crossing the 
St. Lawrence, two Indians accompanied them as guides, but under some pretext 



CAREER OF JOE BETTYS. 71 

left, and finally abandoned thera. The party, after sufiEering almost incredible hard- 
ships, all reached their homes iu Ballston to the great joy of the friends. 

After the exciting scenes attending the invasion of October, 1780, 
the inhabitants of the county were left in comparative peace, though 
always more or less on guard, until late in the spring of 1781. At that 
time several of them suffered by reason of the raid made, under the 
leadership of Joseph Bettys, by about thirty refugees. Bettys was the 
son of respectable parents residing in the southern part of the Ballston 
district. For several years prior to and during the Revolution his 
father, Joseph Bettys, kept a tavern below the farm now owned and 
occupied by Captain Guy Ellis Baker.' For years the name of "Joe 
Bettys " was a source of terror to the inhabitants of the southern part 
of the county. 

Joe Bettys was a young man of unusual intelligence, brave and ath- 
letic. Knowing him to be possessed «f these traits. Colonel John Ball, 
a son of Rev. Eliphalet Ball, who then was a lieutenant in the regiment 
commanded by Col. Wynkoop, enlisted the daring young fellow as a 
sergeant in his company. Unfortunately, however, Bettys was soon 
reduced to the ranks because of having been insolent to an officer who, 
he claimed, offered him insult. Fearful that he might cause trouble. 
Lieutenant Ball procured for him a sergeantcy in the Lake Champlain 
fleet commanded by General Arnold. This was in 1776. In the fioht 
which occurred the next year between the British and American fleets 
on Lake Champlain he distinguished himself, and had his services then 
rendered been properly recognized by the government, he probably 
never would have turned traitor. After fighting desperately until every 
commissioned officer on board his vessel was killed or wounded, he 
assumed command himself, and continued to fight with such courage 
and recklessness that General Waterbury, who was second in command 
under Arnold, was obliged to order Bettys and the remainder of his 
crew on board his own vessel, that in the command of Bettys being 
about to sink. Soon afterward, the American fleet having become 
almost annihilated, it was surrendered, the prisoners afterward being 
paroled. General Waterbury subsequently said that he never saw a 
man behave with such bravery and absolute recklessness as did Bettys 
during this fight, and that his great courage was no greater than the 
shrewdness of his management. 

' This farm is commonly known as the Delavan farm. It hes on the west side of the Middle 
Line road, south of Ballston Centre. 



73 OUR COUNT V AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Unfortunately the American government did not show its appreci- 
ation of Bettys's valorous conduct by the promotion which he coveted, 
and his proud spirit and uncontrollable temper led him to forsake the 
patriot cause. Going to Canada he offered his services to the Loyal- 
ists, received a commission as ensign in the British army and at once 
set out upon his self-imposed career as a sp)^ upon the movements of 
his former neighbors and friends. In May, 1781, at the head of about 
thirty refugees, he made his famous raid into the Ballston district 
and captured Consider Chard, Uri Tracy, Ephraim Tracy, Samuel 
Nash and Samuel Patchin. At the same time Epenetus White, Cap- 
tain Rumsey, Henry Banta, Christian Banta and several others were 
captured on the east side of Long lake by a Tory subaltern named 
Waltermeyer. All were carried in captivity to Canada except Samuel 
Nash, who contrived to escape near Lake Desolation. 

When Col. James Gordon was removed to the Isle of Orleans a year 
later, he found here several other Ballston prisoners, among whom were 
Epenetus White, John Higby, Enoch Wood, the two Banta brothers, 
Uri and Ephraim Tracy, Edward A. Watrous, John Davis and three or 
four others. They finally escaped, in 1783, as has been described, and 
returned to Ballston after indescribable sufferings. 

Meantime, soon after his first vindictive attacks upon his old friends 
at the Ballston settlement, Joe Bettys was captured in the Hudson val- 
ley, tried by court martial and sentenced to be hung as a spy at West 
Point. Washington was induced to pardon him, by the entreaties of 
Bettys's aged parents and several influential Whigs, and the young dare- 
devil was allowed to depart with a severe admonition. But his too 
confiding friends soon had reason to repent having asked for executive 
clemency, for Bettys was as bitter towards them as ever^even more 
so. After his narrow escape from the gallows he defiantly set at work 
recruiting soldiers for the British army right in the heart of the scenes 
of his early depredations, planned and personally headed several raids 
from the north, and on every possible occasion continued to act as a 
spy for the king. Attempt after attempt to capture him was made, 
but he succeeded in eluding his pursuers, even when they felt sure they 
had him surrounded within a short distance of his old home. 

His capture was not effected until early in March, 1782, when he was 
discovered about a mile west of the present site of Jonesville near the 
home of one Fillmore, a lieutenant in the militia, who was making 
maple sugar in the woods near by. Fillmore and two of his neighbors, 



CAREER OF JOE BETTYS. 73 

Perkins and Carey, captured the notorious spy and renegade while he 
was eating his breakfast in the house of a widow named Hawkins. His 
rifle lay beside him, but before he could defend himself he was securely 
tied. Expressing a desire to smoke, his captors partially unbound him, 
when he went to the fireplace and, taking a small packet from his to- 
bacco box, threw it upon the live coals Discovering this act Carey 
pulled the packet from the fire. Examination showed it to be a small, 
flat metallic box containing a paper which proved to be a cipher dis- 
patch to the commander of the British forces in New York. The box 
also contained an order on the mayor of New York for ^30 sterling, to 
be paid Bettys upon the safe delivery of the dispatch. The prisoner 
begged his custodians to allow him to burn these papers, offering them 
one hundred guineas if they would allow him to do so, but they refused. 
He then exclaimed in despair: "Then I am a dead man! " 

Bettys was at once taken to Albany and turned over to the military 
authorities as a prisoner of war. There he was tried by a court mar- 
tial, convicted of being a spy and hanged. With his capture and death 
the inhabitants of Saratoga county ceased to suffer from the depreda- 
tions of bands of invaders, and peace reigned ever afterward within the 
borders of the county.' 

An account of this notorious renegade and spy is contained in Jeptha 
R. Simms's "History of Schoharie County, and Border Wars of New 
York," published in 18-15. It contains some inaccuracies, principally 
as to dates, which have been remedied by subsequent research on the 
part of descendants of the Gordon and Scott families, but as a whole 
it is a fairly reliable story of the doings of this terror of Revolutionary 
days. Simmssays: 

In the fall of 1780, a small party of the enemy, a dozen or more in number, entered 
the Ballston settlement, under the direction of Joseph Bettys, a subaltern officer in 
the British service, known in the border difficulties by the familiar name of Jo. Bettys. 
He resided in the Ballston .settlement previous to the war, and when the contest be- 
gan, took up arms for the States, but afterwards entered the British service, proving 
to his former neighbors a source of frequent terror. 

Major Andrew Mitchell, of Ballston, having visited Schenectadaon busmess, there 
learned, possibly through the Oneida runners, that a small detachment, mostly tories, 
had left Canada, the destination of which was unknown. In the afternoon, Mitchell 
set out for home on horseback, accompanied by one Armstrong, a neighbor. After 
proceeding several miles, and arriving on the north side of Allplass creek, the thought 

1 This account is taken largely from the centennial address of Jud,i<e George Gordon Scott 
delivered at Ballston Spa, July 4, ISTtJ. 



74 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

occurred to him, that possibly he might not be free from danger, as a liberal reward 
was paid for the persons or scalps of oflficers. He was riding through the woods at 
the time, and scarcely had the thought visited his mind, which caused him to quicken 
the speed of his horse, when he was hailed in a commanding voice to stop, by a man 
who sprang upon a fallen tree near the road. The Major put spurs to his gallant 
steed and was soon out of sight of the highwayman, who fired at hira as he passed. 
Armstrong could not keep up with his companion, but as his person was not sought 
for, he escaped unmolested. 

Before the Revolution, Jo. Bettys and Jonathan Miller, another celebrated tory, 
dwelt, one on each side of Maj. Mitchell. After the transaction occurred which is 
noticed above, it was satisfactorily ascertained that the man who fired on the major, 
was his old neighbor Miller; who had accompanied Bettys in his expedition, and then 
had at his beck some half a dozen genial spirits. The ground being sandy, the 
horse's hoofs made but little noise, and the militia officer was not observed until 
opposite the party, secreted on both sides of the road expressly to capture him. 

An enterprise of Bettys in the Ballston settlement, within a few days of the affair 
related, proved more successful. He surprised and captured Aaron Banta, and his 
sons, Henry and Christian, Ensign Epenetus White, and some half a dozen others. 
The elder Banta was left on parole, and the rest of the prisoners, who were among 
the best citizens in the vicinity, hurried off to Canada. 

Mr. Simms also gives the following account of the occurrences im- 
mediately succeeding the capture of Bettys: 

When the arrest of Bettys became known in the Ballston settlement, Maj. Mitchell 
enjoined secrecy in the affair, rightly conjecturmg that he had not traversed the 
northern forests of New York alone. A Mrs. Camp or Van Camp, a widow living 
in the neighborhood, had a son in the British service, who it was thought, might 
possibly have accompanied Bettys. The arrest of the latter having been kept close 
during the day, Kenathy Gordon, a sergeant, was entrusted by Maj. Mitchell with 
the search to be made the same night. Attended by John Sweatman and several 
other fearless neighbors, properly armed, young Gordon gained access to the house 
of Mrs. Camp after bed time, and enquired for her son. She declared her ignorance 
of his whereabouts, pretended to be highly incensed at having armed men enter her 
dwelling and disturb the family at midnight, and still more on being suspected of 
harboring an enemy. 

This woman talked very patriotic, but the warmth she manifested satisfied the 
sergeant, who was a resolute fellow, that her son was in the house; and he went to 
the fireplace, seized a blazing brand and started up stairs. Young Camp and Jona- 
than Miller had accompanied Bettys to the neighborhood, and were then in an upper 
room. Hearing the noise below they sprang out of bed, seized their guns and 
leveled them. At the click of their locks, Gordon jumped down stairs, and swore if 
they did not descend and surrender themselves prisoners in less than five minutes, 
he would smoke them out. Believing he would execute his threat and burn the 
house, they concealed some money under a rafter, and then came down and submit- 
ted to Gordon's authority, who conducted them to the dwelling of Maj. Mitchell, 
where they were secured until morning. The prisoners had not the least suspicion 



CLOSE OF THE REVOLUTION. 75 

that Bettys had been arrested, until after they were. On his way to the major's 
dwelling, Miller was heard to say he would rather be shot than to enter it. Obadiah 
Miller, a brother living in the vicinity, was sent for in the morning, and unexpect- 
edly ushered into the presence of his tory kinsman, whose visit to the neighborhood 
was unknown to him. His surprise was evidently irksome, and he trembled like a 
leaf. It leaked out in the sequel, that the two Millers were together in the woods 
when the attempt was made the fall before to capture the major, which he possibly 
suspected. The two prisoners were taken to Albany, from whence they were liber- 
ated, or effected an escape. 



CHAPTER VII. 



Condition of the Pioneers at the Close of the Revolutionary War — Many Homes 
Devastated, and Many Families Bereft of Their Means of Support — Slow Progress 
of Civilization in the County During the War — Development of the Various Com- 
munities from the War Period to the Close of the Eighteenth Century — The March 
of Civilization Northward Along the Valley of the Hudson — Some of the Early In- 
habitants of the Various Towns, and Their Share in the Development and Pros- 
perity of the County. 

With the peace of 1783 and the acknowledgment of the independence 
of the United States of America came a feeling of absolute security to 
the inhabitants of Saratoga county, in common with the rest of the 
country. But even before the close of the war of the Revolution com- 
parative peace reigned within the borders of the county, excepting an 
occasional slight menace from the Indians. 

The inhabitants of the county were in a sad condition at the close of 
the war, however. Hundreds of them had been massacred or taken 
prisoners by the British or their Indian allies, scores of the best farm 
houses had been pillaged and destroyed by the torch, the ripening 
crops seldom had been allowed to come to full maturity and evidences 
of great poverty were noticeable everywhere. Many families had been 
bereft of those members upon whom the)' depended for support — the 
fathers and older sons; and those who were not in mourning were suf- 
fering by reason of the absence of the greatly needed ones on distant 
fields of battle or as prisoners of war. Few, if any, settlements had 
been made in the county; but with the cessation of hostilities the 
fathers and sons whose lives had been preserved returned to their 
homes, and strangers soon followed them to seek homes in a region of 



76 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

country which was becoming famed for its fine farming lands, its salu- 
brious climate, its healthful mineral springs, and finally, its nearness 
to markets for their produce and the headwaters of navigation on the 
Hudson. 

We have traced, as far as the existing records enable us to do so, the 
settlement of the county prior to the beginning of the Revolutionary 
war. It will now be our endeavor to note the progress of civilization 
in the county during and from the close of the great conflict up to the 
close of the eighteenth century. It is manifestly impossible to give the 
the names of all the settlers during that period of seventeen years, but 
the development of the various communities in the county will be fol- 
lowed as closely as practicable for a book of record of this character. 

WATERFORD. 

Perhaps in no other section of the county was the increase of popula- 
tion and the general industrial development more marked than in the 
town of Waterford. The site of the village, occupying the southeast- 
ern quarter of the town, was purchased in 1784 by Col. Jacobus Van 

Schoonhoven, Middlebrook, Judge White, Ezra Hickok and several 

others, principally persons who had migrated there from Connecticut. 
Then began the modern settlement of the community, which had 
almost stood still for a century by reason of the selfish stand taken by 
the earliest Dutch property owners. Immediately after the purchase 
of this property by the persons named above, the survey of the new 
village was made and trade with the settlers in the county near by be- 
gan to increase at a gratifying rate. By reason of its geographical sit- 
uation, and the broad mindedness and enterprise of its founders, the 
new village seemed destined to become one of considerable commercial 
importance. Its fame began to spread and merchants, produce buy- 
ers and other classes of business men began to locate in the place. 

Among the early merchants of Waterford was the firm of ISIoses and 
Ira Scott, merchants and dealers in grain, who subsequently added a 
tavern to their establishment. They were in business as early as 178G, 
possibly a little before that time. Their place of business was near the 
e.xtreme southeastern part of the town. Almost two miles above, on 
the banks of the Hudson about a mile above the Waterford junction of 
the two branches of the Delaware & Hudson railroad, Anthony Levar- 
sie, or Levisie, kept an inn as early as 1788. The old ferry, estab- 
lished more than a century earlier, was located a few rods above his 



WATERFORD, 1783-1800. 77 

place, and its presence doubtless was a potent factor in inducing liim to 
locate where he did. At this point in those days there was consider- 
able traffic between the inhabitants on the east and on the west side of 
the Hudson. The site was selected, many years afterward, as the 
place where the old Albany, Vermont & Northern Railway should cross 
the river. About the same time the tavern of one of the Vandenburghs 
stood two miles further up the river, on the road to Stillwater. Hez- 
ekiah Ketchum had a grain and produce store in the town in the same 
year, 1788, and Jacobus Ostrander kept an inn at the same time. Both 
may have been located there earlier than 1788, but the records do not 
give any information on the point. 

Professional men were not wanting, either, in this early day. In the 
year of which we are writing Daniel Van Alstyne practiced law in 
Waterford, and in the same j'ear served as pathmaster. James Dugan 
kept a school and at the same time served the town as constable and 
collector. 

Richard Davis was an early merchant. The date of his settlement is 
unknown. Aurie Banta was a carpenter, and constructed many of the 
early residences in Waterford village. Aaron Comstock was a farmer 
two miles north of the village as early as 1787. William Waldron re- 
sided on the river road north of the village. His descendants became 
prominent in the town, a great-grandson having held the office of sur- 
rogate for twenty one years. John Clark came here before 1790. 
Isaac Keeler was a merchant on Second street about 1790. About 
1794 John Pettit had a cabinet shop and Duncan Oliphant a tannery. 
Samuel J. Hazard had a store before 1796, in the village. During the 
last decade of the century John \'an Dekar, James Scott and Benjamin 
Mix kept taverns in town. That of Mr. Mix was located on Quality 
Hill, between Waterford and Middletown. 

In 1795 the first bridge across the Mohawk was erected a short dis- 
tance above Waterford. It was nine hundred feet long, twenty four 
feet wide and fifteen feet above the bed of the river and rested on thir- 
teen stone piers. Its cost was about $12,000, and it was considered a 
great achievement for that day. It formed the connecting link between 
the two divisions north and south of the Mohawk of the great highway 
running from Albany on the south to Ballston, Stillwater and Saratoga 
on the north. 

We have no account of the eighteenth century schools of Waterford, 
though it is certain that at least one schoolmaster — James Dugan — 



78 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

lived there as early as and unquestionably prior to 1788. But a relig- 
ious society — the old Dutch Reformed church, now extinct — existed 
there during the days of the Revolution. When the society was organ- 
ized is not known ; but before the close of the Revolution, probably in 
1783 or 1783, a church edifice stood a mile and a half north of the vil- 
lage. This was taken down and rebuilt in 1799 at the corner of Middle 
and Third streets in Waterford village.' Whether the first edifice re- 
ferred to was the first in the town cannot be learned. As adherents of 
the Dutch Reformed faith lived in this vicinity at least a century before 
the Revolution, it is not improbable that a church existed in the town 
many years before the erection of the first of which we have definite 
knowledge. 

There is in existence no record of any manufacturing establishments 
in Waterford before 1800, excepting such as the tannery, the cabinet 
shop, etc., mentioned. 

BALLSTON AND MILTON. 

The fame of the mineral springs of Ballston Spa having spread 
throughout the land, and that place being comparatively easy of access, 
with a genial climate and more than ordinary hotel accommodations 
for the time, its development after the country began to resume its 
normal condition was quite satisfactory. Coincident therewith came 
the population of the towns of Ballston and Milton, in each of which 
a part of the village of Ballston Spa is located. In another chapter it 
has been found convenient to refer somewhat in detail to the settlement 
of the little community in the vicinity of the public spring — the erec- 
tion of inns by Benajah Douglas, in 1787, and Micajah Benedict im- 
mediately thereafter. In 1792 Nicholas Low also built a commodious 
public house adjoining the lot occupied by Douglas just east of the 
spring. Mr. Low was born in New Brunswick, N. J., March 30, 1739, 
and for many years was a leading merchant of New York city. His 
wife was a widow named Alice Fleming, and she bore him three chil- 
dren, two sons and a daughter. The latter married Charles King, for 
many years president of Columbia College. Mr. Low espoused the 
patriot cause in the Revolutionary war, and contributed largely to its 
success by gifts of money. He died in New York city December 
26, 182C. 

* This church was torn down and the lot on which it stood st>Ul in IHTO, the church society 
having ceased to exist. 



BALLSTON AND MILTON, 1788-1800. 79 

About 1792 Salmon Tryon began to build a house on the hill south 
of the spring, near the present residence of Mrs. Samuel Smith, on the 
corner of West High street and Ballston avenue. Later he added a 
general store at the same location. He was the first merchant of Balls- 
ton Spa of whom anything definite can be learned. In 1795 Mr. Low 
sold his house and farm to Joseph Westcot, who was its proprietor until 
his death. The property of Mr. Douglas ultimately came into the 
possession of Joseph Westcot and Reuben Hewitt. It consisted of one 
hundred acres, and the house stood on the site now occupied by the 
residence of William S. Waterbury. It cost the purchasers $8,000. 
Mr. Westcot was the grandfather of Joseph E. and the late John H. 
Westcot, and great-grandfather of Herbert C. Westcot of Ballston Spa. 
Upon the death of the elder Westcot, his widow married Joshua B. 
Aldridge, and the homestead, for many years thereafter a boarding- 
house, was known as the Aldridge house. In the possession of Herbert 
C. Westcot are several commissions to Reuben Hewitt, as sergeant, 
sergeant-major, second lieutenant and first lieutenant in the Continental 
Army, bearing the signatures of such famous men as John Hancock, 
then president of Congress; Eleazer Fitch and Jonathan Trumbull, 
governors of Connecticut. 

Just before the close of the century, probably about 1798 or 1799, a 
school was started in Ballston Spa. It was located on the site of the 
east side of the present cemetery on Ballston avenue. Who the early 
teachers were is not known. But even before that time religious ser- 
vice had been held in the village. In the spring of 1791 Ammi Rogers 
of Bradford, Conn., a lay reader who conducted services under the 
supervision of Rev. Mr. Ellison of Albany, held regular services alter- 
nately in St. George's church at Schenectady and in private residences 
in Ballston Spa. Christ Episcopal church ' already had been organized 
in 1787, but it was then located at Ballston Centre. The first society 

% 

1 This is the oldest Protestant Episcopal church in Saratoga county. Those who organized 
it in 1787 were Thomas Smith, Ezekiel Horton, James Emott, Edmund Jennings, James Mann, 
Elisha Miller, Salmon Tryon and forty-two others. Ammi Rogers became itS first pastor. In 1792 
the first church edifice was erected a short distance south of Ballston Centre. The first vestry 
was composed of Joseph Bettys, Elisha Benedict, wardens; Thaddeus Betts, John Wright, Joshua 
Bloore, Jabez Davis, Richard Warren and James Emott, vestrymen. Rev. Mr. Rogers was or- 
dained deacon by Bishop Provost in Trinity church, New York, June 4, 1703, and advanced to the 
priesthood October 19, 1794. He continued as rector of Christ church until 1807, when he was suc- 
ceeded in turn by Rev. Mr. Van Horn and Rev, Gamaliel Thacher, who died while rector. By 
1810 the growth of population in Ballston Spa had been such that a parish named St. Paul's had 
been organized there, with Rev. Joseph Perry as rector. Upon Rev. Mr. Thacher's death Mr. 
Perry began to conduct services in both churches. In 1817 the chiirch at Ballston Centre was 



80 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

in Ballston Spa was not founded until 1810. The Baptist church' of 
this village was organized in 1791, the year which witnessed the hold- 
ing of the first Episcopal services in the county. 

Masonry obtained a firm foothold in the village before the close of 
the century. In 1794 a number of members of the Masonic frater- 
nity who had settled in Ballston Spa and vicinity met at Ballston 
Centre for the purpose of organizing themselves into a lodge. May 
16, 1794, the Grand Lodge, F. & A. M., of the State of New York 

abandoned and the two congregations united for worship at Ballston Spa, St. Paul's being changed 
in name to that of the original society— Christ church. Its first vestry under the reorganization 
consisted of Joshua B. Aldridge and James Mann, wardens; Epenetus White, jr., Thomas Palmer, 
Samuel Smith, Thomas Smith, Eli Barnum and Daniel Starr, vestrymen. The church edifice at 
the Centre was taken down in this year, removed t(» the village and reconstructed on a lot ad- 
joining the old county clerk's office on Front street, about three hundred and fifty feet west of 
and opposite to the public spring. It was reopened by services conducted by Rev. Benjamin T. 
Onderdonk, subsequently bishop of New York. Rev. Joseph Perry was succeeded as rector by 
Rev. William A. Clark. In 1824 Rev. Deodatus Babcock became rector, serving as such for twenty- 
two years. The rectors since that time have been: George J. Geer, Robert G. Rogers, Charles 
Arey, George W. Dean, George Worthington, Joseph Gary, Walter Delafield; April 1, 1884, to the 
present time. Rev. Dr. Charles Pelletreau. With the e.\ception of Dr. Babcock's, Dr. Pelle- 
treau*s rectorship has been the longest in the history of the parish. In IHCiO, during the rector- 
ship of Mr. Dean, the cornerstone of the present handsome edifice was laid, and the church was 
dedicated in March, 1863. Its cost was about $11,000. Since that year thousands (if dollars have 
been expended in repairing and beautifying the edifice, until to-day it has one of the most attract- 
ive interiors in the country. During the rectorship of Rev. Dr. Pelletreau handsome memorial 
windows have been put in, the chancel has been completely refurnished, at considerable expense, 
and other improvements of a rich and substantial nature have been effected. About 1875 the 
church purchased from the State the old armory building nearly opposite the church, which it 
remodeled and has since used as a parish house. Extensive alterations were made in 187(1 under 
the direction of Dr. Pelletreau. The work was completed in time for the reopening of the church 
on Christmas day of that year. 

* The Baptist congregation first met in a school house situated just south of the village. Here 
services were held until 1803, when a church was built, during the third year of the pastorate of 
Rev. Elias Lee, on a part of the ground now occupied by the eastern part of the Protestant ceme- 
tery on Ballston avenue. Mr. Lee was the first regular pastor of the church, assuming charge in 
1800. Prior to that time services were conducted by various ministers, including Rev. Mr. Lang- 
worthy and Rev. Mr. Mudge of Saratoga Springs. The society numbered ninety-four members 
in 1800. Mr. Lee's pastorate continued for a period of thirty years, or until his death. He was a 
man greatly beloved, not only by the members of his congregation, but by the Inhabitants of 
Ballston Spa and vicinity, regardless of the religious proclivities or lack of the same. In 1820, 
owing to the more general settlement of that part of the village north of High street, the original 
edifice was moved to a point on Science street, near the line of the present railroad. In 1837 the 
new church, which still stands on Milton avenue at the head of Front street, and which was 
abandoned as a place of worship in 18%, was completed at a cost of $8,000. It was constructed of 
stone and was an imposmg edifice for that day. A very handsome new stone edifice was erected 
on Milton avenue in 1896, at a cost of about $^55,000 duringthe pastorate of Rev. Gove Griffith John- 
son. The church was known as the Second Baptist Church of Milton until 1802, when it was in- 
corporated as the First Baptist Church of Ballston Spa. Since the pastorate of Rev. Elias Lee, 
the following have served in that capacity : William E. Waterbury, S. S. Parr, Charles B. Keyes, 
Norman Fox, Orrin Dodge, Joseph Freeman, L. Y. Hayhurst, E. S. Widdemer, William Groom, 
William O. Halman, P. Franklin Jones, George W. Clark, E. H. Johnson, Robert T. Jones, 1875- 
1879; William T. C. Hanna, 18K0-181K); William T. Dorward, ]8!K)-lS!t4; Gove Griffith Johnson, 
18W-1898. 



BALLSTON AND MILTON, 1783-1800. 81 

granted a charter to the new lodge, which was named Frankhn Lodge 
No. 37.' 

The public spring' was by no means the only magnet which attracted 
visitors to this famous resort in the early days. At least three other 
springs whose waters possessed a distinct medicinal value were in ex- 
istence. One was on the west side of Bath street, at the foot of the 
hill. One, called the Jack spring, was located on the opposite side of 
the street, and flows to waste to this day. Another was located in 
what is now the rear yard of the Hotel Medbery. These three had a 
somewhat similar taste, and all diffiered greatly from the public spring. 
Travel to them increased year by year, additional boarding houses and 
hotels were erected for the accommodation of visitors, stores were 
established and permanent residences built, so that at the opening of 
the present century the village was a hustling little community, with 
evidences of thrift and enterprise on all sides, bidding fair to become 
one of the most popular and celebrated summer resorts on the Ameri- 
can continent. 

The village of Ballston Spa, having been located partly in Ballston 
and partly in Milton, those two towns naturally shared in the pros- 
perity attending the early days of this once famous resort. The agri- 
cultural community was greatly benefited by the near-by market, now 
increasing in importance so rapidly, and its fame spreading, settlers 
continued to flock to the adjoining country, improve the land and take 
their products to the markets at the now thriving village. 

Among those who located in the town of Ballston while the war was 
in progress was Samuel Wood, who came about 1780 and built a home 
on the east side of Ballston lake. Thomas Weed was also an early set- 
tler. Peter Williams built a small tannery at the close of the war, and 
in connection therewith operated a shoe shop on the banks of the 
Mourning Kill near-by. John, Azor, Samuel and Eliakim Nash and 
David Clark were also here about the same time, but little is known of 
them. Miles Beach came from Connecticut in 1786 in company with 
his father, Zerah Beach. The former was married in 1807 to Cynthia 
Warren. William A. Beach, the famous lawyer, was their second son. 
Asa Waterman, and his son, Asa Waterman, jr., came to Ballston 

* This lodge met for several years at Ballston Centre. In 18-34 the warrant was forfeited .^nd 
declared to be not legally capable of being revived. 

^ This spring, called the " iron spring," is located at the west end of Front street, on the north 
side of the street, and its waters are free to all. 
G 



83 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

about 1790 and lived at Ballston Centre, opposite the Presbyterian 
church. Later they removed to the old Larkin farm. The father 
fought in the Revolutionary war and was present at Burgoyne's sur- 
render. In 1786, while residing in Montgomery county, Governor 
Clinton commissioned him a lieutenant colonel in the State militia. 
Seth C. Baldwin located on the well-known Colonel Yoimg farm before 
1793, for in that year he had become well enough known to be chosen 
supervisor of his town. In 1797 he was elected to the Assembly; in 
1800 and 1801 he was again elected supervisor, and in the latter year 
was appointed sheriff of the county. After serving in that capacity 
three years he was elected county clerk, his office, in the absence of a 
county office, being located in his residence. Edward A. Watrous was 
another prominent man of this period, he having served as supervisor 
during the years 1794, 1795 and 1796. Jabez Davis was supervisor in 
1797 and Henry Walton in 1798. Among others who were prominent 
during the latter days of the century were Caleb Benedict, Lloyd 
Wakeman, Robert Leonard, Gideon Luther, Thaddeus Patchen, Amos 
Larkin and Bushnell Benedict. 

Until 1796 the county had no fixed place for the transaction of its 
official business. In that year the first court house was erected on the 
site on the Middle Line road which even to this day is known as Court 
House Hill. This continued to be the county seat until March, 1816, 
when both the court house and the jail adjoining were burned. 

One of the first to come to Milton after the close of the Revolution 
was Sanborn Ford, who formerly resided in Sand Lake, Rensselaer 
county. He had served throughout the war, first as musician, then in 
the infantry and finally in the cavalry. He was at Bunker Hill and 
also at the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, having- witnessed the begin- 
ning and ending of the great conflict. For many years after coming 
to Milton he kept a public house. He had a family of four sons and 
four daughters. His homestead was located at what was known for 
many years as Spear's Corners, and in earlier days as Whalen's Cor- 
ners. The latter name was given to the community in honor of Abel 
Whalen, a former resident of Sand Lake, who located there about the 
same time as Ford. He had two sons, Abel and Ezekiel. John Lee, 
from Connecticut, migrated to Milton in 1793 and settled a short dis- 
tance west of Rock City Falls. His children were Joel, Elias, Noah, 
■ Ruth and Abigail. Joel Lee removed to Ballston Spa, and served as 
postmaster there for half a century. He was appointed to the office by 



BALLSTON AND MILTON, 1783-1800. 83 

Gideon Granger, postmaster-general. His son, Elias W. Lee, was for 
many years a merchant in that village, and another son, John J. Lee, 
was an officer of the Baliston Spa bank for nearly forty years. Joseph 
Shearer located near West Milton, perhaps before the Revolution. 
That he was here during the early days of the war is certain, as a stone 
in the old family burial ground states that three of his sons died re- 
spectively in 1777, 1787 and 179G. Joel Mann came from Hebron, 
Conn., in 1793 or 1794 and settled on the Nathaniel Mann farm. Of 
four sons, Rodolphus settled in Baliston; Jeremiah on the old home- 
stead, which subsequently was occupied by his son Nathaniel ; Joel in 
Galway, and Hiram in Wayne county, N. Y., where he subsequently 
became sheriff. A daughter, Mrs. Hanchett, removed to Troy. James 
Mann, his brother, had preceded him three or four years, having set- 
tled in 1790 on a farm of one hundred acres about a mile west of Balls- 
ton vSpa. He, too, came from Hebron, Conn., whence he returned 
shortly after his settlement here and married Tryphena Tarbox. His 
children were Electa, James and Joseph. James settled on the home- 
stead. John Bentley located in the town about 1778 and leased one 
hundred and fifty acres of land. John Cole and Henry Cole were liv-- 
ing near him at that time. Mr. Bentley was twice married. His chil- 
dren by his first wife were Sarah, Mrs. Snyder, of Milton; Catharine, 
Mrs. Green, of Clifton Park; Elizabeth, Mrs. Tillinghast Bentley, of 
Milton ; Charity, Mrs. Southwick, of Greenfield ; and Patience, Mrs. 
John P. Bentley, of Troy. By his second wife he had eight sons: Otis, 
David, Pardon, Stephen, Adams, Elias, Gregory and Reuben. Otis 
settled in Milton ; the remainder removed to Oswego county. Reuben 
Weed, Jonathan Morey, Benjamin Peck, Samuel Reed, Silas Adams, 

Jacob Ambler, Isaac Webb, — Howard, John Ball, Elisha Powell, 

Henry Frink, Benjamin Gregory, Joshua Jones, Joel Keeler and Ben- 
jamin Crenelle were all here before ISOU. Mr. Keeler was the first 
postmaster at West Milton. 

Before the year 1800 several saw mills and grist mills had been con- 
structed along the banks of the Kayaderosseras at or in the vicinity of 
what is now Rock City Falls. The place was then known as Hatch 
Mills, and the mills were owned principally by a man named Swan. 
Mr. Rathbone, the first permanent settler at Rock City Falls, had mills 
there about 1800. His brother located there about the same time and 
started a store. Before that year John Whitehead had a saw mill at 
Craneville, at the upper end of the pond. At Factory Village an iron 



84 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

forge and a saw mill were in operation about the same time. At Mil- 
ton Centre General James Gordon established a gri.st mill just after 
the war." Some time before 1800 Daniel Campbell of Schenectady 
erected a grist mill at West Milton, and left it in charge of Simon P. 
Vedder. Ezekiel Whalen had a mill near that of Campbell, but when 
it was built is not known. He also had the first store at what was then 
known as Clute's Corners. 

Rev. Ammi Rogers, who conducted the first Episcopal services in 
Ballston Spa, organized St. James' church ^ at Milton Hill in 1796. 
Five years earlier, June 2, 1791, the Presbyterian church' at Milton 
was incorporated, and its organization may have taken place at an 
earlier date. The Baptist society long known as " the stone church," * 
located east of Rock City Falls, was organized some time before 1800. 
The Presbyterian church of West Milton was organized soon after the 
Revolution by Scotch immigrants, as the Covenanters, or Reformed Pres- 
byterian. The first house of worship was located about a mile and a 
half west of Spear's Corners. ° 

STILLWATER. 
The settlement of Stillwater and the development of its resources 

^ It is said that his materials for building were gathered before the war broke out, that the 
millstones were left leaning against trees during the troublous period, and that they had sunk 
by their weight half way into the ground before peace enabled the general to complete his plans. 
— Sylvester's History of Saratoga County. 

^ The first vestry of the parish consisted of the following : Wardens. James Henderson, David 
Roberts; vestryman, Abel Whalen, William Bolt, Joel Mann, Hugh McGinness, William Johnson, 
Henry Whitlock, John Ashton, Thomas Shepherd. Rev. Charles McCabe, pastor of the Presby- 
terian church in Milton, entered the Episcopal ministry and for a while was rector of St James'. 
Among the other pastors were Rev. Mr. Adams and Rev. Joseph Perry. About 1845 separate 
services there were discontinued and the members united with Christ church of Ballston Spa, 
the property being sold in 1849 to Nathaniel Mann. Services have been held afternoons for sev- 
eral years by the rector of Christ church. 

* The first trustees were William Williamson, Rbenezer Couch, Benajah Smith, Silas Adams, 
Stephen Wood and Esquire Patchin. The meeting-house was at Milton Hill. Among the early 
pastors were Rev. Messrs, Hovey, Wright and Hermance. The society dissolved about 1841. 

* The first house of worship was built in 1801 by Elder Lewis. In 1836 a stone edifice was 

erected. Among the early pastors were Jonathan Nicols, Samuel Plum, — Clay, E. Tucker, 

F. Powell, A. Seamans, J. B. Wilkins, J. Goadby, W. B. Curtis, Caleb Gurr. The Milton 
branch of the Stillwater Baptist church, organized about 1785 by members of the churches at 
Stillwater, Stephentown and White Creek, was constituted as an independent church June 
23, 1793. 

* This church was abandoned in 1840 and a new one erected immediately thereafter. The 
first pastor was James McKinney, who came from Ireland in 1798. The celebrated Gilbert Mc- 
Master succeeded him. Other early pastors were Samuel Wilson, John N. McLeod. A. S. McMas- 
ter (son of Gilbert McMaster), Samuel Stephenson, R. H. Beattie, David G. Bullions and others. 
The first elders were John Willson, Alexander Glen, John Burns, Joseph Shearer and Ale.vander 
Donnon. 



STILLWATER, 1783-1800. 85 

was very rapid after the close of the Revolution. Even during that 
conflict a number of persons were attracted to that town by the favora- 
ble reports regarding the advantages it offered to new settlers. John 
Taylor, who resided in Albany, owned a place there during the Bur- 
goyne campaign, but did not make it a permanent place of residence. 
Asa Chatfield was there at the same time, but little is known of him. 
Philip Hunger, Joseph Hunger and Benjamin Hunger were also there, 
but the time of their coming is uncertain. Thomas Hunt resided in 
the eastern part of the town. Captain Ephraim Woodworth's house 
was located about a quarter of a mile south of the Neilson barn which 
was converted into a fort just before the arrival of Burgoyne's forces, 
and his residence was used by General Gates as his headquarters during 
the battle of October 7, 1777. Woodworth came from New England 
and -did business as a weaver. John Hunter, who came to the county 
with the church colony from Connecticnt, first located in Halta, but 
removed to Stillwater about the close of the war. He ran a blacksmith 
shop, and also was a practical surveyor. Hany maps made by him are 
still in existence. He became a large land owner, purchasing exten- 
sively of Jonathan Frisbie, Eben Patrick and others. Joel Ketchum 
located in town about the close of the war. One son, Nathaniel, was 
elected sheriff of the county in 1811. The other son, Richard, was a 
merchant many years at Ketchum's Corners, which was named in his 
honor. Amos Hodgman came from Weston, Hass., about 1788. John 
Fellows came with the Connecticut church colony in 1762 to 1764, and 
built a house about a mile west of the "yellow meeting-house." But 
he returned to Connecticut, like many other members of that colony, 
during the period of the Revolution, and did not permanently settle in 
Stillwater until the close of the war. He was active in religious work 
and a man of great usefulness in the community. He left three sons — 
William, Ezra and Thomas. William settled in vStillwater and became 
the father of Abiram Fellows of Hechanicville. Ezra also settled in 
town. Thomas married a daughter of William Seymour and emigrated 
west with the Seymour family. The senior Fellows's daughter Eldula 
married Joel Seymour. Another daughter became Hrs. Depew and 
and another married a Dr. Day. William Seymour, Jonathan Horey 
and Cyprian Watson also were members of the Connecticut colony. All 
were God-fearing men and all became prominently identified with the 
welfare of the town of their adoption. j\Ir. Horey married a daughter 
of Rev. Robert Campbell, sr., the pastor of the Connecticut congrega- 



86 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tion who removed to Stillwater. Thomas Moray, his son, was a prom- 
inent town officer and for many years a deacon of the church. Mr. 
Campbell spent his life in preaching to his flock, and his son, Robert 
Campbell, jr., took up his father's work and preached in Stillwater 
eight years. Mr. Watson and Mr. Seymour were also deacons in this 
Congregational church. The latter was a blacksmith by trade, but a 
man of great influence in the community. The Patrick family were 
also prominent for many years. Anthony Collamer, from Boston, set- 
tled south of Snake Hill on Saratoga lake just after the war, but finallj' 
removed to Malta, where several of his descendants still reside. He 
and two of his brothers fought at the battle of Bemus Heights. Thomas 
Collamer was his son, and Collins Collamer, his grandson. Isaac and 
Gabriel Leggett, brothers, were here during and probably before the 
war. They resided near each other, north of Wilbur's ravine. Near 
Wilbur's basin lived Reuben Wright. For many years he and his suc- 
cessors maintained a ferry known as Wright's ferry. The homestead 
of Simeon Barber was located on the famous battle ground. He may 
have been a resident before the opening of the war. Amariah Plumb 
and John Thompson also located in town. The latter was a man of 
great prominence and public spirit, and was elected a representative in 

Congress. Jeremiah Taylor, Elisha Andrews and Gleason lived 

in town during the Revolution. 

Cornelius Vandenburgh, Christian Sackrider and Henry Metcalf 
were prominent in the legal profession several years before the close of 
the century. James Baker settled north of Mechanicville about 1800. 
His descendants are very numerous, many of them still residing in the 
county. Elias Palmer served in the patriot army and owned property 
during the Revolution. William Mead had a tavern at Stillwater vil- 
lage during the war, and soon after its close another was kept by 
Ezekiel Ensign on the river road. William Patrick had another in 
Stillwater village as early as 1800. Others were kept about the same 
time by Eli Stone, William Gleason and William Strong. The latter 
was located at what was known as Stillwater Centre. Hezekiah Rey- 
nolds also had an early tavern at the "yellow meeting-house corners." 
The first at Ketchum's Corners was kept by Noah Chapman. 

Among the merchants who did business in town during this period 
were Palmer & Levins, who were succeeded by Reuben and Warren 
Smith. The stores of Ford cS: Hale, in 1790, and Terence O'Donnell 
are mentioned as existing in the north part of Stillwater village. 



^ 



STILLWATER, 1783-1800. 87 

Abram Q. Wright had the first store at Ketchum's Corners. Jesse 
Patrick was another early merchant at Stillwater village. 

Among the early physicians were Dr. Elias Willard, Dr. Robert 
Patrick, Dr. William Patrick and Dr. Ephraim Otis. The latter lived 
at Quaker Springs in Saratoga, but practiced extensively throughout 
Stillwater. Daniel Hall, Increase Child and John Hunter are men- 
tioned as early surveyors. 

Mills were built in Stillwater at a very early day. That of Isaac 
Mann has been referred to in a previous chapter. There were several 
others in town before the close of the century, but the ownership of 
most of them is a matter of doubt. ,Saw mills and grist mills were in 
operation during the same period at Gleason Hollow and on Mill Creek. 
On Wilbur Basin creek Ezekiel linsign, who had one of the earliest 
taverns, had two or more mills. 

The following also resided in Stillwater prior to 1800: Dirck Swart, 
who served as county clerk; Colonel Daniel Dickinson, farmer and 
tanner; Joseph Leavans (or Levins), blacksmith; William Gill, Jesse 
Gage, Amos Milliken, Thomas Peterson, Ashbel Palmer, Amos Hodg- 
man, Jo.seph Rowe, Ashbel Meacham, Seth Turpin, shoemaker; Mar- 
tin Carrington, harness-maker; Gilbert Hooker, Reuben Smith, Warren 
Smith, Alpheus Eaton, Frederick vStewart, merchants or druggists; 
William Parsons, Abin Parsons, Heman Whitney, carpenters; James 
HiUson, shoemaker; Hezekiah Lord, Jonathan Reed, Hugh Harsha, 
James Biggies, farmers; Peter Olds, Isaac Dickinson, Henry Davis, 
Timothy Shipman, Abraham Valentine, Joseph Stephens, William 
Cooper, Benjamin Cole, John Wiggins, Joseph Rockwell, William 
Dunning, Foster Whitford, Isaac Fonda, James Verner, John Bleecker, 
Jehoida Millard, jr., Josiah Millard, Isaac Myers, George Taylor, 
Daniel Ashley, John Tuttle, John Reubottom, Ephraim Woodworth, 
Samuel Rogers, Reuben Moore, Zebulon Mott, Peter Clemens, Andrew 
Sprague, James Dickinson, Lewis Williams, Samuel Bacon, Ezra 
Buell, Thomas Hunt, James Green, Daniel Brooks, Cornelius Van 
Tassel, John McBride, John Carpenter, Stephen Sayles, vSylvanus 
Sayles, William Anderson, Joel Ketchum, Solomon Scidmore, Samuel 
Cooper, John Scidmore, Thomas, William and Frances West, William 
Bell, William Morris, Philip Rogers, Jacob Rogers, Robert Ellis, 
Mordecai Sayles, Kendrick Brewer, Seth Burgess, Jonathan Bassett, 
Nathaniel Cooper, Simeon Marshall, Thomas Higgins, Enoch Higgins, 
Ahab Sayles, Reuben Woodworth, Lemuel Powers, Abraham Webster, 



88 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Royal Newland, Benjamin Rogers, Jacobus vSwartout, Daniel Thomp- 
son, Killiaen Vandenburgh, Killiaen De Ridder, Hubbard Pemberton, 
Ebenezer Bacon, Ephraim Cook, Jethro Bennett, Arthur Caldwell, 
Richard Davis, Israel Newland, Thomas^Black, William Black, John 
Rowley, Joseph Newland, Joshua Barber, Nathaniel Clapp, Nicholas 
Gordinier, Daniel, John and James McBride, Rowland Emery, Archi- 
bald Walker, Abraham, John and Francis Wilcox, Philip Hunger, 
Jehial Parker, John Neilson, Holton Dunham, John and James Verner, 
Adam Comstock, Daniel Bull, James Warren, Edward A. Watrous, 
Hugh Robles, John Taylor, Sidney Berry, Epenetus Warren, Ebenezer 
Russell, Robert Campbell, John Bull, Zina Hitchcock, Moses Vail, 
Robert Yates, John Williams, David Thomas, Stephen Lusk and James 
Gordon. All these men were property owners in Stillwater before the 
end of the eighteenth century. 

Before 1800 the town of Stillwater had flourishing church societies, 
good schools and a Masonic lodge. The first schools were supported 
by subscription, and though private, were in reality semi-public, as all 
children were given tuition, whether their parents contributed more or 
less to the maintenance of the school. On the hill in Stillwater village 
stood a school as early as 1795 or 179G. Among the early teachers was 
Walter Broughton, who combined with his profession that of singing 
master. He also worked as a stone-cutter, and after teaching awhile 
became proprietor of the old Patrick tavern. Leonard Hodgman, who 
was born in Stillwater in 1792, remembered a school house near his 
home when he was a boy, which may have stood there prior to 1800. 
Other school houses of that period were located on the bank of Wilbur's 
Basin creek and in the Thompson neighborhood. The latter was pat- 
ronized by the families of the Connecticut colony. 

This church from Connecticut, the members of which doubtless came 
in a body from Canaan, Litchfield county, was the pioneer church, not 
only in Saratoga county, but in all probability, in all the country north 
of Albany. It was a Congregational church, and was founded in 
Canaan June 26, 1752. Rev. John Palmer preached the first sermon 
June 28, 1752, and the following day a number of persons' subscribed 
to the covenant and elected a clerk. In April, 17G2, the members of 
the society resolved unanimously to move to Stillwater, whither many 
of them had already gone." 

' See Chapter IV for a list of these members. 
' Undoubtedly the church, or at least a section thereof, with a regular organization, had set- 
tled in Stillwater by 1703, for a paragraph in its records reads as follows: " Sejit. 5, ITK, Then 



HALFMOON, 1783-1800. 89 

The Masonic lodge at Stillwater, chartered October 27, 1791, was for 
many years one of the most prosperous lodges in the State. It was 
known as Montgomery lodge. Montgomery Chapter existed before 
1798, for March 14 of that year it was one of the five chapters which 
organized the Grand Chapter of the State of New York, at Albany. 
The representatives of the Stillwater chapter at this organization were 
Daniel Hale, jr., high priest, and Ashbel Meacham, king. It was at 
this meeting that De Witt Clinton was chosen as the first presiding 
officer of the State body. The Mark Master Mason's lodge at Still- 
water was held under warrant granted January 30, 1799. These Ma- 
sonic bodies ceased to exist when the anti-Masonic agitation of 1827 
began. 

HALFMOON. 

Halfmoon was another town in which the development was very rapid 
and satisfactory as soon as the Revolution ended. Even during that 
conflict many families removed to the town, believing that their safety 
lay in their nearness to the city of Albany. Among those who came 

Brother Lemuel Taylor, and Barshaba, his wife, had their son Lemuel baptized by Brother Camp- 
bell, pastor o£ Christ church in Canaan, but it was done in Stillwater." This church has never 
disbanded nor changed its doctrines nor form of church government. Some time before the 
Revolution the members built a house of worship near the bank of the Hudson, opposite the 
mouth of the Hoosick; but this was subsequently removed to a site about two miles west of the 
river, where a cemetery was established. In this burial-ground Rev. Robert Campbell, the first 
pastor, and many of the early members of the congregation, wasinterred. The church was early 
known as " the yellow meeting-house " In 1818 the Presbyterian church at Stillwater was organ- 
ized, and many of the members joined the new society, its house of worship being located at a 
point more convenient for them. In 1850 the old church was repaired and rededicated, the sermon 
being preached by Rev. Mark Tucker of Wethersfield, Conn., who had been a pastor of the Still- 
water church. In 1852 the church changed its form of government to Presbyterian and thus 
effected a union with the Presbyterian families residing at MechanicviUe, the name of the organi- 
zation being changed to "Presbyterian church of Stillwater and MechanicviUe." In 1871 the 
MechanicviUe church became a separate body and the original church again became a distinct 
society, as which it has since existed. 

Prom the old records it appears that the First Baptist church of .Stillwater is less than a year 
youngir than the old Congregational church. Benedict's "History of the Baptists" c[)ntains 
this paragraph: "At .Stillwater, near the place where Burgoyne was taken in the .A.merican war, 
a church arose in ITtiS, which became unusually large and prosperous and branched out in many 
directions, but, on account of certain difficulties, it suffered a great calamity and became nearly 
extinct." The early organization of the church is proven by the fact that in 1779 it had eighty-six 
members. Rev. Beriah Kelly began preaching in 1781. During the fourth year of his pastorate 
dissension arose in the society, which divided, one faction worshiping in the Baptist meeting- 
house and the other under the guidance of Rev. Lemuel Powers. The two parties were reunited 
in 1790 under the. united pastorate of Mr. Powers and Rev. David Irish, In 1793 the latter retired 
and left Mr. Powers as sole pastor. In 1791 thirty-eight members were dismissed to form the 
church at Schuylerville, and others were dismissed to organize the church at Ballston. Two 
years later forty-eight members left the parent church to organize the society at Milton, and 
nineteen members to organize the First Baptist church of Saratoga Springs. Other churches 
undoubtedly sprang from the Stillwater society, which may appropriately be called the " mother 



90 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

to Halfmoon duriug the period of the war the following were men of 
more or less prominence: 

Benjamin Rosekrans was an inhabitant of Halfmoon during the Revo- 
lutionary period. His family was once compelled to flee from home by 
reason of an attack made by a band of Canadian Indians. The Rose- 
krans homestead stood near Crescent. On the river road the Ten 
Broecks resided during the war. William Clark was the first to build 
at Middletown, or Halfmoon village. Dr. German also resided there as 
early as the war. Dr. Sabin and Dr. Shaw lived near by in later years. 
Peter Oavis owned a large farm in town, and purchased land at differ- 
ent times in 1800 of Jacob Teachout, Cornelius Teachout, Law- 
rence and Connery. Richard Davis, Peter Davis's nephew, was 

also an early inhabitant. Peter Ferguson and Jacob Miller came about 
1780. Among their neighbors were John and Jeremiah Vincent and 
Dr. Carey. Abraham Traverse located here about 1785 or 1790. 
Andrew Evans, the families of Snedeker, Weaver and Zebulon Mott 
lived southerly from Mechanicville. Abraham Deuel resided west of 
Mechanicville. Jonathan Lossing lived at Usher's Mills as early as 

of Baptist churches," not only in Saratoga county, but in Washington county as well, the West 
Hoosick church sprinj^ing from tlie Stillwater society. In 1830 a large number of members organ- 
ized the Second Baptist church in Stillwater village. The meeting-house of the parent church 
was rebuilt in 1850. and the first successful Sunday school was organized in 1859. 

The Presbyterian church of Stillwater was also organized during the eighteenth century. 
The old book of records begins with this paragraph: " The Presbyterian inhabitants of Stillwater 
incorporated themselves into a religious society, in the name and style of the First Presbyterian 
congregation of Stillwater, on the 12th day of September, 1791. In this capacity they put them- 
selves under the care of the Albany presbytery, and presented a call to Mr. .Aaron Condit, a can- 
didate under the care of that presbytery, to settle among them in the gospel ministry. This call 
was accepted, and Mr. Condit installed January 15,1793. Mr. Condit labored only two years after 
his installation, his services closing in 1795." There is no evidence that the church existed after 
1795. 

St. John's Church was incorporated October 27, 1795, but a church organization had existed, 
with occasional services, several years prior to that year. These officers were elected October", 
1705 : Wardens, Ezekiel Ensign, Ezra St. John ; vestrymen, Thomas W. Ford, Henry Brewster, 
Warren Smith and Cornelius Vandenburgh. The first rector of the parish was Rev. Ammi 
Rogers The first church was erected in 179S, but was subsequently sold to the Catholic con- 
gregation there, an attractive chapel being built with the proceeds of the sale. The rectors suc- 
ceeding Mr. Rogers have been ; Rev. Mr. Thacher, 1805-1806 ; Rev. Mr. Van Dorn, 18oe-1810 ; 
from 1810 to 1820 there was no regular rector ; Rev. James W. Tappan, 18.32-1837 ; Rev. Mr, .\llison, 
1837; Rev. Reuben Hubbard, 18:17-1843: Rev. William A. Curtis, 18M-1845 ; Rev. M. A. Nickerson, 
181.5-1849 ; Rev. R. B. Fairbairn. 1819-1852; Rev. John D. Downing, 1852-18.58; Rev. Robert C. Rog- 
ers, 1858-1859; Rev. E. S. Widdemer, 1859-18ci0; Rev. Albert Denker, 1866-1809; Rev. Wm. Bogart 
Walker, 1869-1871 ; Rev. Alfred H. Stubbs, 1871-1880; Rev. M. A. Dean, 1880-1881 ; Rev. P. C. Cre- 
veton, 1881-18&* ; Rev. Richmond Shreve ; Rev. W. G. Lewis, 1889-1890 ; Rev. Mr. Haskins, 1890- 
1891 ; Rev. Marvin H. Dana, 1891-1892 ; Rev. Joseph Jowett, 1894 to the present time. From 1837 to 
to 1891 St. John's of Stillwater and St. Luke's of Mechanicville were served by the same rectors. 
During the pastorate of Rev. A. H. Stubbs, August 22, 187.3, the present church was erected, and 
dedicated January 3, 1870. 



HALFMOON. 1783-1800. fll 

1780. The male members of the Newton church, most of whom 
doubtless lived in Halfmoon, were as follows in 1791: Peter Groom, 
William Groom, Daniel Derbyshire, James Essex, Matthew Neally, 
Joshua Miller, Ephraim Dunham, William Gorsline, Richard Clute, 
Timothy Woodin, George Alford, Joseph Peck, Nathaniel Upham, 
Shubael Waldo, Peter Baker, John Bell, Moses Lent, Andrew Evans, 
Abraham Weldon, Thomas_Mosher, George Ellsworth, William King 
and Philip King. Some of these already have been noted as pioneers. 

Others known to have resided in the town as early as 1778 are: Ja- 
cob Fort, Adrian Hegeman, Jacob I. Lansing, Christopher Miller, 
Adam L Van Vranken, Jeremiah Vincent, Israel Van Alstyne, William 
Reeves, Gerrit Lansing, James Jones, James Dugan, Joseph Mosier, 
Henry Brevoort, Daniel Van Alstyne, Cornelius Groat, Jacob Ostrander, 
John Slosson, John Clark, Johannes Fulmer, Aarie Banta, Noah Tay- 
lor, Jesse Bronson, Calvin Fuller, John Quince, Jacobus Pearce, 
Gerardus Clute, Jacob Hall, Jacob Steenburgh, Charles Hoffman, 
Jesse Groat, Michael Bassett, John C. Connell, James Shaw, Gideon 
Close, Peter Faulkner, John Van Vranken, James Grooms, Joseph 
Fowler, vStephen Wiley, Valentine Brown, Edward Rexford, Ezekiel 
Free, Matthew Gregory, Nathan Garnsey, Andrew Scouten, Moses 
Scott, James Murray, Jedediah Rogers, Josiah Taylor, Robert El- 
dridge, James Scott, Benjamin Mix, John Way, Samuel Hicks, John 
Knowlton, William Tripp, Solomon Burlingame, Hendrick ^'a^der- 
werker, William Ashe, John R. Van Vranken, John Hamilton, Anthony 
Leversie, John Barnes, Timothy Smith, Israel Brooks, Clemens Young, 
James Youngs and Ebenezer Landers. 

Taverns were plenty in Halfmoon in those early daj's. In 1788 the 
official list contained the names of the following keepers of public 
houses: William Fuller, Elizabeth Peebles, Henry Bailey, Daniel Van 
Alstyne, Joshua Ta3ior, Benjamin Mix, Nicholas Fords, Christian 
Smith, Elias Van Steenburgh, Peter Faulkner, John Donald, John 
Guerdon, Nicholas Teachout, John Flynn, Jacob Miller, Aaron Corn- 
stock, James Stein, Anthony Leversie, Coonrad Wesley, Moses Scott, 
Ira Scott, Garrett Hannion, Samuel Connery, Matthew Gregory, Jo- 
seph Potter, Adam Edson, William Ward, Joseph Sibley, Jacobus Van 
Schoonhoven, Richard Davis, Joseph Mosher, Simeon Groat, William 
Waldron, Hezekiah Ketchum, Jacobus Ostrander, John C. Connell, 
Dirck Flansburgh, Jedediah Rogers, John Burhans and James Scott. 
But there were earlier tavernkeepers than these. A man named 



92 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Gates had a public house south of the creek in Mechanicville during the 
Revolution. Henry Bailey, and afterward — — • Mills, kept one a mile 
farther south, on the river road. Shubael Cross had a tavern at Mid- 
dletown during, and probably before, the Revolution. 

Saw mills and grist mills were numerous in these days. There was 
a saw mill on the Steena Kill as early as 1763. At the close of the war 

Bradshaw built a grist mill on the Devas Kill. Data regarding 

construction and ownership of the other mills is lacking. 

Religious services were held in Halfmoon in Revolutionary times if 
not before the war. But there is in existence no record of the organ- 
ization of any church society before the war. A Friends' meeting was 
established during the period of that struggle about three miles south- 
west of Mechanicville, but the meetings were discontinued about 1850. 
The Reformed Protestant church of Middletown was incorporated 
November 14, 1791, by John C. Connell, William Ashe, Abraham I. 
Ouderkirk and Francis Sill, but it ceased to exist many years ago. 
The only existing church which was established during the early period 
of which we are writing is St. John's Episcopal church of Stillwater, 
which had many members residing in the town of Halfmoon. 

SARATOGA. 

In the town of Saratoga Jesse Mott was an early settler, coming from 
Dutchess county to Dean's Corners in the spring of 1783. In 1785 John 
Thorn, also from Dutchess county, came and settled on the farm which 
since has remained in possession of his family. He had served as a 
soldier in the Revolution. Samuel Bushee, who also was in the Amer- 
ican army, came from Connecticut about the same time. He married 
the daughter of Abram Marshall, and purchased of the Lansings the 
farm north of Schuj^lerville. The Lansings owned this place at the 
time it was occupied by Burgoyne's officers. Elihu Billings settled on 
the Cramer hill in the same year. A short time after Daniel Morgan 
located near him. Obadiah Knapp and Mr. Jeffords were early settlers 
south of the present village of Victory Mills. 

It appears that farm lands in the western part of Saratoga were im- 
proved at the same time and at about as great a rate of progress as in 
the eastern section, after the war. Settlements were made near Sara- 
toga lake as early as 1784 or 1785. In connection with these settle- 
ments is an interesting bit of history: 

Ou the 7th day of August, 1781, seven men, sent from Canada, came to Albany 



SARATOGA, 1783-1800. 93 

and in the evening made an attack upon the house of General Schuyler, where he 
had been residing after the destruction of his buildings at Schuylerville. Their 
object was to kill or capture the general, either through deadly hate at his past ser- 
vices against the English government, or perhaps with the design of holding the 
person of the general as a hostage to secure terms in the future exchange of prison- 
ers. There were in the house with the general at the time John Ward and John 
Cokely, two of his life guards, and also John Tubbs, an army-courier in his service. 
These three men made a gallant fight with the seven assassins, who had effected an 
entrance into the hall. John Tubbs, as his children now relate it, had a personal 
struggle with one, and having pressed him down behind an old oaken chest, with his 
hand on his throat, tried to draw a knife to finish him, but the knife was gone, and 
Tubbs was obliged to let him up. Meanwhile General Schuyler had, from the win- 
dows above, aroused the town, and the seven men suddenly left, carrying off Tubbs 
and Cokely with them as prisoners, and as proof that they had actually penetrated 
to Schuyler's house and made an attempt to execute their appointed work. The 
prisoners were kept nineteen montlis on an island in the St. Lawrence. Returning 
home about the time peace was declared. General Schuyler presented the tliree men 
with a deed of two hundred and seventy acres of land. The deed is now [1878] in the 
possession of Simon Tubbs, son of John Tubbs, and recites that " In consideration 
of five shillings, and that John Cokely, John Ward and John Tubbs, did gallantly 
defend the said PhiHp Schuyler when attacked in his own house, near the city of 
Albany, on the 7th day of August. 1781, by a party of the enemy in the late war, 
sent e.\pressly to kill or make pri.soner of the said Philip Schuyler," the party of the 
first part hath granted and sold to the said Ward, Cokely and Tubbs, all tliat tract 
and parcel of land "In the Saratoga patent, known and distinguished as the west- 
ernmo.st farm of the south half of lot No. 20 in the grand division of Saratoga patent, 
made by John B. Bleecker, surveyor, in 1750, containing about two hundred and 
seventy acres of land." 

The land was first divided into three parts, and the men drew for their respective 
portions, and soon after made their homes in this section. John Tubbs's portion was 
a part of the present place of Simon Tubbs, his son; John Ward's, the farm occupied 
until recently by his son ; and John Cokely's share is also now owned by Simon 
Tubbs. • 

Killiaen De Ridder was an inhabitant during, possibly before, the 
Revolution. In 1783 he sold a farm to John Yroman for ^150. Vro- 
man in turn, sold it in 1797 to John, Henry and Samuel Green. 
Stephen Olney was in town during the war, and there is some evidence 
that he operated his farm even as early as 1770. Joseph Rogers set- 
tled here during the war. On the farm he owned is a burial ground 
containing an inscription dated 1787. Daniel Wood removed in 1784 
from the farm deeded to John Tubbs and others by General Philip 
Schuyler. When he came is not known. Martin Irish, Ashbel Irish, 
Oliver Perkins, Silas Deuel, Ephraim Anable, Stephen Viele, Johannes 

' Sylvester's History of Saratoga County, 1878. 



94 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Viele, Ludovicus Viele and Jesse Toll are known to have been located 
in town prior to 1790. The latter at one time owned an entire grand 
division of the Saratoga patent — six square miles of land. Walter Van 
\'eghten, Herman Van Veghten, Walter Knickerbocker and Refine 
Geer were early inhabitants at what is now Coveville. James and 
Robert Milligan were in town as early as 1785. 

Among others who lived within the limits of the town of Saratoga 
during the latter years of the century were Sidney Berry, William 
Scott, Asaph Putnam, William Thomas, Nelson Winner, Hezekiah 
Willis, Benjamin Jenkins, Jonathan Pettit, James McCreedy, Amos 
Hawley, William Dudley, Gamaliel Vail, Jacob Toll, TJionias Bennett, 
John Dillingham, John Brisbin, David Reynolds, William Wait, Elisha 
Miles, Elihu Billings, Jacob Hicks, Ebenezer Bacon. 

There were several mills in the town. The old mills at Grangerville 
were erected about 1791 or 1792 by Jesse Toll. There was also a saw 
mill at Victory Mills. The first mills in town, those at Schuylerville, 
already have been described. 

The town was well supplied with taverns. In the letters of Madam 
Riedesel, written in 1777, she refers to a tavern kept by "a man 
named Smith, on the way down the river," evidently but a short dis- 
tance below Schuylerville. Samuel Bushee probably kept a tavern at 
the same spot a few years afterwards. A tavern was kept by a widow, 
Mrs. Taylor, in Schuylerville very early in the present century, but 
there is no mention in the early records of its having been maintained 
prior to 1800. Other public houses probably were kept by Archibald 
McNiel and Scribner. 

Stores were located at convenient points in the rapidly growing 
town. The earliest merchant appears to have been located at Schuy- 
lerville, but there is no mention of his name, and, in fact, nothing 
very definite on this point; The first merchant whose name has been 
preserved in this connection was John Douglass, whose store was 
located south of Schuylerville. Herman Van Veghten also had a store 
at Coveville about the same time. 

The professions were well represented. Among the physicians were 
Doctors Bull, Bryant, Pierce, Billings, Dimmick, Copp, Dean, Smith 
and Brisbin. All were prominently identified with the progress of the 
community. Richard M. Livingston was an early lawyer, his office 
being located first at Coveville and afterward, as Schuylerville devel- 
oped and increased in population, at that village. 



SARATOGA, 1783-1800. 95 

The pioneers of Saratoga were not unmindful of the education of 
their offspring, as is shown in the number of schools established at an 
early day in various parts of the town. One of the very earliest was a 
log school house located on the farm of Daniel Morgan. An early 
teacher was a Mr. Tucker. Two otheir schools were located within 
three miles of this one. Another log school house stood in the Fitch 
neighborhood. At Grangerville a school was kept about 1800 by Mr. 
Stephens. School text books were scarce and valuable in those days, 
and frequently one book had to answer for the use of the children in 
three or four different families. 

The first public action regarding schools occurred in 1796, when 
these school commissioners were appointed under the existing law: 
Sidney Berry, Herman Van Veghten, Joseph Palmer, Thomas Jeffords 
and Benjamin Phillips. In 1797 the commissioners were Sidney Berry, 
Daniel Bull, Joseph Palmer, Thomas Jeffords and Solomon Wheeler; 
in 1798, Thomas Jeffords, William Force and George Cramer; in 1800, 
Thomas Jeffords, Elihu Billings, Daniel Ball and William Wait. 

The earliest religious society mentioned is that of the Friends, who 
met in a log meeting-house south of Quaker Springs, which place was 
named after them. These meetings were held as early as 17G5 or 1770 
by Quakers who had removed from Stillwater. Among the founders 
of the local society were Gabriel and Isaac Leggett, Tibbett Soule, 
Thomas and Fones Wilbur, George Davis, David Shepherd and John 
Walker. October 16, 1793, John A. Bleecker sold to Isaac Leggett 
and William Barker, as trustees, a site for a meeting- house.' 

The Reformed Dutch church of Saratoga was in existence as early 
as 1772, but little is known of the early career of this society. Its first 
house of worship stood near the spot where General Burgoyne handed 
his sword to General Gates, and the building for several weeks prior 
thereto had been occupied by the British troops as a hospital. During 
the war the society was dissolved, but it was reorganized July 10, 1789, 
by the election of Cornelius Van Veghten and Peter Becker as elders 
and Jesse Toll and James Abel as deacons. Rev. Samuel Smith ac- 
cepted a call to the pastorate, began preaching in December following 
and was ordained in January, 1790. Ten years later he removed to 
New Jersey. A parsonage was erected in 1793 on a tract of fifty acres 

* The first minister of this society was Isaac Leggett, who served many years. About 1820 
Andrew Doriand began to serve in that capacity, leading the flock for more than half a century. 



96 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of land north of Schuylerville.' In 1790 the First Baptist church of 
Saratoga was constituted, being received the following year as a mem- 
ber of the old Shaftsbury association. Though the records of the 
Shaftsbury association do not show it, the claim has been made that the 
organization was effected as early as 1772. This is merely tradition, 
however, and 1790 must be accepted as the date of organization in the 
absence of other records. In 1791 the church had forty-seven mem- 
bers, and the pastor was Rev. Samuel Rogers.' 

SARATOGA SPRINGS, TOWN AND VILLAGE. 

The development of the town of Saratoga Springs daring the last 
two decades of the eighteenth century was hastened, no doubt, by the 
prospect of increasing popularity of and travel to the mineral springs 
situated within the limits of that town. Coincident with the settle- 
ment of the land about the springs was the settlement of the adjacent 
farming lands in the town. 

Upon the death of vSamuel Norton, the first and only permanent set- 
tler at the springs before the Revolution, which occurred during the 
latter days of the war, one of his sons occupied his father's possessions. 
Which son succeeded his father is not known. The senior Norton mar- 
ried Sarah Deems at New Bedford, Mass., and their children were 
Samuel, Asa, Isaiah, Rhoda, Sarah, Polly, Louise and Cora. In the 
fall of 1787 the Norton place was purchased by Gideon Morgan, who 
sold it a few weeks later to Alexander Bryan.' The latter located there 

' After the retirement of Rev. Samuel Smith in 1800 the pulpit was vacant two years. In De- 
cember, 1802, Rev. Philip Duryea became pastor, remaining as such for a quarter of a century. 
In 1822 several members founded the church at Bacon Hill. About the same time the old meet- 
ing-house was taken down and most of the material used in the erection of a new edifice in Schuy- 
lerville. In 18:J1 this buildinj>r was burned. It was replaced by a stone structure which stood 
until 1850, when it was demolished and a new brick church erected. 

^ This church, now the Baptist church of Schuylerville, united with the Saratoga association 
in 1805. Jordan's Bridge was an early place of baptism. A meeting-house, perhaps not the first, 
however, was erected about 1807, and stood about three miles from Schuylerville. About 1833 a 
new church was erected in Schuylerville. The church at Fish Creek was organii;ed prior to IWK) 
by members of this church. Rev. Samuel Rogers, the first pastor of the original church, served 
as a teamster attached to the army of General Gates at the time of the battle of Saratoga. It is 
related that one night, while he was carrying a load of specie northward, over very muddy roads, 
he was so closely pursued by the British that he was obliged to cut his team loose and carry the 
kegs of treasure into the woods. All night he guarded them, and the following day he delivered 
them at their destination. His death occurred in Stillwater in 182:). 

3 Bryan's parents were fugitives from Acadia when its inhabitants were driven out by the 
British. They first settled in Dutchess county, N. Y., where Bryan married a sister of Senator 
Talmadge. Before the Revolution he removed to a point about two miles north of Waterford, 
where he kept a tavern for many years. He was an eccentric character. At his tavern above 
Waterford he used to entertain partisans o£ both contending parties, patriots and torics, and so 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1783-1800. 97 

at once, his new home being situated near the site of the old Empire 
house. He soon built another log house for the accommodation of 
summer guests, of whom he had large numbers. No other public 
houses existed at the springs during the last century, excepting the 
tavern built by Benjamin Risley during 1790 or 1791. 

Merchants located at the springs before there were enougli inhabit- 
ants within range to support a single individual, unless enormous profit 
were asked and received. This probably was the case, for as early as 
1794 John and Ziba Taylor, brothers, located here and became the pio- 
neer merchants of the newly founded village. John Taylor conducted 
his business in the Schouten house, then owned and occupied by Ben- 
jamin Risley. Later he built a small log house about seven or eight 
hundred feet north of High Rock spring, in which he and his brother 
had a store for many years. They also bought a great deal of land in 
the vicinity of the springs, which they cleared; built saw mills and 
grist mills and in general became prominent and influential. The 
"Ten springs" were first owned and developed by John Taylor, who 
resided there many years, Ziba continuing in business in the upper vil- 
lage. The two daughters of Richard Searing, a pioneer of Greenfield, 
became tlie wives of these two brothers. John married Polly Searing, 
and Ziba married Sally Searing. Ziba's daughter, Mary, became the 
wife of Dr. John H. Steele, the historical writer. 

In the town of Saratoga Springs numerous settlements were made 
during the Revolution. The earliest inhabitant in the southeastern 
part of the town was Benjamin French, whose home was near Saratoga 

adroit and diplomatic was he that lie became the unreserved confidant of both parties, without 
being suspected of treachery by either. But there is no doubt of his patriotism. Dr. John H. 
Steele in his "Analysis" wrote: "When General Gates took command of the Northern army, 
he applied to the committee of safety of Stillwater to provide a suitable person to go into Bur- 
.iroyne's camp, with a view to obtain a knowledge of the movements of the enemy. Hryan was 
immediately selected as a person well qualified to undertake the hazardous enterprise, and he 
readily agreed to accomplish it. .-Vbout the same time he wasapplied to by a friend of the enemy 
to carry some intelligence which he deemed of importance to Burgoyne; this he likewise under- 
took, having secretly obtained the consent of General Gates for that purpose. By pursuing a 
circuitous route, he arrived unmolested at the camp of the enemy, which was then situated in the 
vicinity of Fort Edward. Having had several interviews with General Burgoyne, by whom he 
was closely examined, he was finally employed by that officer to superintend some concerns in 
the ordnance department. He tarried sufficiently long to obtain the required information when 
he privately left the camp in the gray of the morning of the 15th of September; but he had not 
proceeded many miles before he discovered that he was pursued by two horsemen; these, how- 
ever, he contrived to avoid, and arrived safely at Gates's head quarters late on the following night, 
and communicated the first intelligence of the enemy's having crossed the Hudson and being on 
the advance to Stillwater. This intelligence was of great importance, as it led to the immediate 
preparation for the sanguinary engagement which ensued on the 19th of the same month." 
7 



9« OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

lake as early as ITSO. He owned a fertile tract of about 1,200 acres. 
He also resided for a short time previous to this in a cabin at the north 
end of Lonelr lake, or Owl pond, a small bodr half or three-quarters 
of a mile north of Saratoga lake. He had three sons, John, Benjamin 
and Richard. A little south of Mr. French lived Mr. Upton, but the 
time of his coming is unknown. 

Amos Stafford was the first resident of the community which now 
bears the name of Stafford's Bridge. Tradition says that he killed such 
immense numbers of wolves that the bounty he received therefor was 
sufficient to pay for the farm he settled. Amos Stafford had seven 
children. The oldest, Mary, became Mrs. Green of Saratoga. Her 
first husband dying, she married John Hicks and removed to Waterloo, 
Seneca county. Henry, the oldest son, removed to Penn Yan, N. Y. 
Samuel removed to Victor, N. Y. Amos remained upon the home- 
stead. Rensselaer located in Saratoga, his farm adjoining his father's. 
Rachael married Anthony Maxwell of the town of Saratoga. Phoebe 
became the wife of Gerrit I. Lansing of Halfmoon. Among the earliest 
neighbors of Amos Stafford were John, Henry and Nicholas Wagman, 
and Amos Peck. Asa, William and Staats Jewell, brothers, settled at 
the close of the century on the farm which until his death was occupied 
by ex-Mayor Thomas B. Carroll of Troy, who spent his later years as 
a resident of Saratoga county. Another early resident was Pardon 
Fish, who resided north of what is now Moon's hotel. About 1T96 
Zachariah and Henry Curtis, brothers, came from Stillwater and took 
up three hundred acres of unimproved land, most of which is still in 
the possession of his family. They were originally from Chatham, 
Columbia county. David Abel and his brother came from Dutchess 
county about 1779 and located on the east side of the lake, on the farm 
surrounding the White Sulphur spring. The brother remained there, 
but about 1790 David removed to the west side of the lake. He had 
four sons, David, Peter, Jacob and Richard. The former succeeded to 
the ownership of the home farm, and the others went west. His 
daughters became Mrs. James Barhydt, Mrs. John Whitford and Mrs. 
Andrus Riley. Benjamin Avery came from Dutchess county about 
1790 and located about two miles from Stafford's. He reared a family 
of several sons. Of these, James and Edward settled in Wilton, Fred- 
erick and Hiram in Saratoga, and Calvin in Saratoga Springs. Austin 
and Orlin died young. Benjamin Avery's daughters became Mrs. 
Noah Weed of Greenfield and Mrs. John Kelly of the same town. 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1783-1800. 99 

Robert Ellis was the pioneer at what is now known as "The 
Geysers. " He located there as earl}- as 1777. His sons were Robert, 
jr., Myron, Charles and one other, and his daughters became Mrs. 
George Peck. Mrs. Pitkin, Mrs. James R. Westcot and Mrs. Joseph 
Westcot. Mr. Westcot's neighbors during the period of which we are 
writing included John Scott and Robert Welds. Among those who 
settled near by about 1780 were John and Jeremiah Cad)', brothers. 
One of them built a home on Cady Hill, and another built a home 
which subsequently became a tavern. Jeremiah removed west at an 
earl}' day. John had two sons, Thomas and Jeremiah. Robert Ayers, 
who was a soldier in the Revolution, settled soon after the war near 
what is now "the Dry bridge," in the southern part of the town along 
the Delaware and Hudson railroad. His wife was a Miss Ashton. He 
became a large landholder, his property including some of the rich 
land along the Kayaderosseras. Of his two sons, John and Isaac, the 
former settled in Saratoga and the latter went west. One of his daugh- 
ters became Mrs. Hicks Seaman, mother of Hicks Seaman, whose 
family now occupy the old Ayers homestead. The others became Mrs. 
Elisha Rockwell of Milton and Mrs. Ransom Cook of Saratoga Springs. 
Thomas Brown and Mr. Wallace lived near him. Foster Whitford, 
who had an early mill in Saratoga, near Snake hill, had several sons, 
one of whom, John C, settled in Saratoga Springs. 

One of the earliest mills in town was built before ISOO near the 
Geysers by Robert Ellis, of whom mention is made in the foregoing. 

Dr. Carpenter is said to have been the first physician to locate in the 
town of Saratoga Springs. He was a devout member of the Baptist 
church. 

The records in existence fail to mention any schools or churches in 
the town of Saratoga Springs in the eighteenth centur}- except those in 
the village of that name. The oldest church in town is the First 
Baptist church of Saratoga Springs village, which was formed in 1791 
by ten members of the First Baptist church of Stillwater, located at 
Bemus Heights, who had moved to the west side of the lake, in this 
town. This church was not received into fellowship until October 11, 
179.3, when it had but twenty members. Services were conducted 
several years by visiting preachers or laymen, and the congregation 
had no regular house of worship for many years as far as the records 
show.' 

' The first church edifice was erected in 1S09 on land east of the Geyser spring procured from 

LofC. 



100 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

CHARLTON. 

A large portion of the territory embraced within the limits of the 
town of Charlton was originally given as part payment for labor per- 
formed, to the commissioners who surveyed and distributed the lands 
included in the Kayaderosseras Patent. Five thousand acres in Charl- 
ton, the northern boundary of which is now coincident with the high- 
way running east and west through the village of Charlton, was one of 
the tracts awarded to these commissioners. This tract was sold at 
public auction by the commissioners, the purchasers being Dirck Lef- 
ferts, Cornelius Clopper, Isaac Low and Benjamin Kissam. By the 
return of Low to England and the death of Kissam, Lefferts and Clop- 
per secured title to the entire tract, which they cut up into farms and 
sold to the newcomers. Joseph Van Kirk, who bought a farm next 
to the Ballston line, was the first settler on this tract, during the early 
days of the Revolution. Soon afterward Joseph La Rue, who pre- 
viously had located a mile and a half northeast of Charlton village, took 
up the farm west of Van Kirk's. James Bradshaw and Jesse Conde 
settled there within a year or so after La Rue's removal. John Rogers 
built a home on Aalplaats kill, and immediately afterward, as early as 
1778, erected a saw mill there. This was the first saw mill in Charlton. 
It was located about half a mile south of Charlton village. In the 
eastern part of the town, north of Van Kirk's, Nathaniel Cook and his 
family — a wife, eight sons and one daughter — founded a new home in 
the summer of 1778. They came from New Jersey. Their oldest son, 
Asher, and his wife located on a hundred acre farm about two miles 

Robert Ellis. In lS-2-3 they removed to Saratoga Springs village and occupied a building stand- 
ing on the site of the present church. In 1&16 this building was remodeled and repaired. In 1855 
the increasing membership rendered the erection of a new edifice necessary, and this building 
was dedicated in August, 18.50. It cost about $18,000. The first parsonage was built in 1833. The 
church had no regular pastor until 1800, when, on December 18, Rev. Elisha P. Langvvorthy was 
ordained to the ministry. He resided in Ballston Spa, where his death occurred in 1838. He fre- 
quently would walk to church in the depth of winter, a distance of five miles; and as there was 
no fire in the church, would preach with his mittens and overcoat on. After an intermission, 
during which the devoted members of the congregation would eat their cold hmches, he would 
preach a second sermon. The succeeding pastors have been: 1819-182.3, Francis Wayland: 1823- 
1825, John Lamb; 1825-1826, David R. Mackeltresh; 1829-1845, Joshua Fletcher; 1847-1849, Arnold 
Kingsbury; 1850-1855. Austin H. Stowel; 1855-185!), Luther W. Beecher; D.D.; 1801-1864. A. W. 
Sawyer; 1864-1870, L. M. Woodruff; 1870-1871, William Cheetham; 1871-1872, supplied by Samuel H. 
Greene and E. H. Bronson; 1872-1876, E. A. Woods; 1876-1886, George A. Smith; 1887-1891, George 
B. Foster; 1891-1894, George W. Nicholson; 1894 to the present time, Tileston F. Chambers. 
December 30, 1884, a new Baptist chapel at the Geysers was dedicated. The Sunday school was 
organized May 1, 1870. A parsonage was erected in 1892, ne.tt to the church on Washington 
street, a gift from Mrs. Hervey P. Hall as a memorial to her husband. 



CHARLTON, 1783-1800. 101 

north of Charlton village. There are many descendants of Nathaniel 
Cook now residing in the town. 

A number of vScotch families from Whithorn parish, in Galloway, 
Scotland, sailed for America in 1774, and finally settled in what is now 
the town of Galway — named for Galloway. The year following a 
number of their friends in Scotland followed them and settled in the 
northern part of Charlton, just south of their neighbors in Galway. 
Among these hardy pioneers were William Gilchrist, James Bell, An- 
drew Bell, Robert McKinney, John McWilliams, and others. This 
settlement was called "Scotch Street." During the Revolution, which 
even then was in progress, some of these families left their homes and 
remained in Albany or Schenectady for safety. They retained the 
titles to their newly-acquired lands, however, which for the most part 
are still retained by their descendants. Several of them, including 
Abram Van Epps, Alexander Gilchrist and Aaron Schermerhorn, re- 
moved into the western part of the town after the war. Tunis Swart 
and John Van Patten accompanied them. Hezekiah Watkins, who 
fought with the American army in the Revolution, and John Anderson, 
a soldier under General Burgoyne, who was one of the prisoners sur- 
rendered at Saratoga in 1777, settled also near West Charlton. John 
Holmes, from New Jersey, settled about 1775 about three-quarters of 
a mile west of Charlton village, where he soon after built the first grist 
mill in town. In 1786 Phoenix Cox built a home north of Charlton. 
He came from New Jersey, where he was a militiaman in 1776. His 
son Asher inherited the farm. Abraham Northrup located about a 
mile south of Charlton in 1785, occupying two hundred acres of land 
purchased of Lefferts and Clopper. Zopher Wicks located two miles 
north of Charlton about 1786. One son, Zopher Wicks, jr., started the 
first blacksmith shop in town. The other son, David, remained on the 
homestead, which finally became his by inheritance. Isaac Smith, who 
came from Lenox, Mass., settled in the southern part of the town. 
Gideon Hawley, from Connecticut, was another pioneer. He was the 
father of Gideon Hawley, the first superintendent of public schools for 
the State of New York, appointed in 1813. He was a lawyer and a 
graduate of Union College.' The families of Robert and Alison Bun- 
yan and Robert and Alison Hume, of good Scotch blood, located a short 
distance east of West Charlton in 1794, their farms adjoining. William, 

' See chapter on Bench and Bar. 



102 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

son of Robert Bunyan, married Isabel, daughter of Robert Hume.' 
Robert Bunyan died in 1799. His son died in 1837. 

The Low family was prominent in public affairs for many years. 
The pioneer, James Low, located between Charlton and West Charlton 
soon after the war. John Low was supervisor for many years, from 
1821 to 1832 and from 1834 to 1836, inclusive. Thomas Low served 
the county as sheriff. The first marble grave-stone erected in the town 
marks the grave of Mrs. Abigail Low, who died April 11, 1797. Cap- 
tain Kenneth Gordon, who had been a minute man in the Revolution, 
came to town before the end of the war and located on what is now the 
De Ridder farm. His son, Joseph Gordon, resided in Ballston Spa for 
many years. In 1785 Seth Kirby purchased the farm recently occupied 
by the widow of Col. F. D. Curtis. His son. Major Thomas Kirby, 
was an ensign in the war of 1812. The latter's second daughter be- 
came the wife of Colonel Curtis. The Kirbys were descended from two 
brothers who fled from England on the downfall of Oliver Cromwell, 
they having been numbered among the adherents of the great dictator. 
They were members of the council which sentenced Charles I to death. 

Other settlers during the period under discussion were John Boyd, 
John Munro, Henry Carl, John and Nicholas Angle, Amos Sherwood, 

Aaron Schermerhorn, James Valentine, Samuel Parent, Stevens, 

Chapman, Ahasuerus Wendell, Nathan Hinman, James Taylor, 

Eli Northrup, John Hays, Arrowsmith, Jeremiah Smith and Jacob 

Deremer. 

Dr. William Mead was the first physician to practice in Charlton. 
There is no record of any lawyer having an office here before 1800. 

The first store in town probably was that kept by Davis & Bostwick, 
established about 1785. They failed in business in 1791, and were suc- 
ceeded by Chauncey and Samuel Belding, brothers, the first of whom 
settled in town about 1790 and the latter about 1792. The Beldings 
became men of wealth and influence. Chauncey was a member of 
assembly in 1807 and 1808, and Samuel served in that office in 1823. 

The saw mill built by John Rogers on Aalplaats creek about 1778 
was the first in town. The grist mill of John Holmes, west of Charl- 
ton, was the first of that kind in town. 

The first church organization existing in Charlton prior to the pres- 

' William and Isabel Bunyan were the parents of John Bunyan. The latter married Jane 
Tweed Chalmers, and their son, Thomas C. Bunyan, now of Berthoud, Col., was from 1874 to 
1892 principal of the Union Free schools of Ballston Spa. 



GALWAY, 1783-1800. 103 

ent century was the " Presbyterian Church of Freehold, in Charlton," 
so named because most of its members, inhabitants of the eastern part 
of the town, came from Freehold, N. J. The church was organized 
January 3, 1786, and placed under the jurisdiction of the presbytery of 
New York, having been incorporated according to the laws of the State 
of New York. In the following summer a small frame church was 
erected.' 

The second church was the "Scotch Street church," now the United 
Presbyterian church of West Clmrlton.'' It was founded by the early 
Scotch settlers at "Scotch Street," in the northern part of the town. 
The society was organized soon after the Revolution, but there was no 
regular pastor nor house of worship until 1794. In that year, a church 
edifice having been erected, a call was extended to Rev. James Mairs, 
and he was duly installed as pastor February 30, 1794. This relation 
remained unbroken until May 20, 1835, when Mr. Mairs removed to 
the vicinity of New York, where he preached in various places imtil 
his death, which occurred September 18, 1810. 

GALWAY. 

The settlements at Scotch vStreet, made in 1774, were followed soon 
after by others farther north in the town of Galway. About four 
years later a colony came from Centrehook, R. I., and located near 
York's Corners, in the northeastern part of the town. Among them 
were Rev. Simeon vSmith and his parents, and Simeon Babcock, Reuben 
Mattison and Joseph Brown, his brothers-in-law. Three or four years 

> A new church was built in 1802, and still a third in 1853, the latter costing $4,500. A year 
later the society purchased a parsonage adjoining the church. Soon after the erection of the 
first house of worship Rev. William Schenck of Ballston was engaged to preach here one-third of 
the time, as a stated supply. From 17S9 to ITU'i the pulpit was supplied by the presbytery. The 
first regular pastor of the church. Rev. Samuel Sturges, was installed June ijl, 1703. He remained 
four years; then the pulpit was vacant until 1800, when Rev. Joseph Sweetman became pastor. 
The pastors succeeding him have been: Revs. Isaac Watts Piatt, 1830-25; John Clancy, 1825-45; 
Richard H. Steele, 1848-50; George L. Taylor, la53-54; James N. Crocker, 1855-ti7; John R. Sanson, 
18U9-75; Clarence W. Backus, 18"l)-83; Raymond Hoyt Ste.irns, I883-'J2; Walter A. Hitchcock, 18113 
to the present time. The interior of the church was remodeled during the summer of 1802. The 
manse burned to the ground March 2, 1896. During the year it was replaced by a new modern 
dwelling. 

^ The iirst church, a frame structure, built in 1794, stood in the southeast corner of John [Mc- 
Kinley's farm, in the town of Galway. In 1803 a larger house of worship was erected on the 
farm of James Bell in Charlton, on the site of the West Charlton cemetery. William Bunyan 
and Robert Brown were the builders. A new church was built in 184G, and thirty years later 
about $3,000 was expended in alterations and repairs. A parsonage was erected in 1837. Sunday 
schools were maintained for many years in various school districts, but in 1804 these were all 
merged in the school which has since met regularly in the church. 



104 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

later about a dozen families from New Jersey formed a little colony in 
the southeastern part of the town, which they called Jersey Hill. This 
colony included Peter Anderson, James Hayes, Richard Paul, John 
Hinman, Dudley Smith, Harrison, Hedding. A short dis- 
tance southwest from this colony John McMartin, Duncan Stewart, 

James Clizbe and Ferguson settled about the same time. Job 

Cornell, and his wife, Sarah Wood, who came from Rhode Island, set- 
tled about three and a half miles north of Galway about 1788 or 1789. 
There their son, Job Cornell, jr., was born in 1789. The latter became 
the father of William Cornell of Mosherville. Lewis Stone and his 
wife, Sally Warren, came from New York to Galway in 1794, where 
their son, Augustus L. Stone, was born. Pilgrim Durkee and his wife, 
Hannah Holmes, settled about half a mile east of West Galway about 
1784, and there raised a family of six sons and five daughters. One 
son, Eber C. Durkee, remained on the homestead for many years. 
Gen. Earl Stimson was an early settler near Galway village, on the hill 
known as Stimson's Corners. He had two stores, a hotel, and a meat 
packing establishment and owned hundreds of acres of land. He was 
very prominent, and was a member of assembly in 1818 and a Repub- 
lican presidential elector in 1840. James Warren was another repre- 
sentative man of the town, representing the county in the Assembly 
from 1799 to 1803. Col. Isaac Gere held many public offices, includ- 
ing member of assembly and State senator. Other prominent men 
who resided in town during the latter years of the eighteenth century 
included Othniel Looker, Nehemiah Conde, Lewis Rogers, Eli Smith, 
James De Golia, Asa Kellogg, Edmund Wait, Wait Palmer, Josiah 
Bartlett, Isaac Fay, Arnold JL^wis, Restcome Potter, Dr. Pixley, one 
of the earliest physicians in Galway; Thomas Disbrow, Joseph Wait, 
Ebenezer Smith, Philip Green, Benajah Moon, Wilson Green, Joseph 
Brewster and Nathaniel Keeler. 

Before the close of the century the Scotch settlers who had inhabited 
the southern part of Galway and the northern part of Charlton had 
organized what was then known as the " Scotch Street church," which 
afterward become the United Presbyterian church of West Charlton.' 
In 1803 a new church was erected in the town of Charlton. A society 
of Friends existed in the town man)^ years ago, but as there are extant 
no known records of that organization, it is impossible to state when, 
where or by whom it was organized or how long it existed. 

' The history of this church is contained in the pages immediately preceding. 



EDINBURGH. 1783-1800. 105 

Tradition says that the First Baptist church of Gal way was organ- 
ized as early as 1778, and this date was officially accepted by the Shafts- 
bury association, of which the church was a member; but the existing 
records go back no farther than 1785. The society was originally com- 
posed of twenty-seven members, who came in a body from Rhode 
Island and settled in the northern part of the town. Rev. Simeon 
Smith became the first pastor in 1785, -remaining as such five years. 
He was not ordained to the ministry, however, until 1787. At his 
home the early meetings were held. About 178G a log meeting-house 
was erected. In 1796 this was abandoned and a church was erected on 
" Baptist Hill," a mile southwest of York's Corners. In 1845 this was 
taken down and rebuilt at York's Corners at an expense of $3,000. 
The Sunday school was organized in 18-15. 

EDINBURGH. 

While settlements in Edinburgh may have been made, and probably 
were made, during the latter days of the Revolution, the earliest in- 
habitants of whom anything definite is known was Abijah Stark, a 
nephew of General John Stark, the commander of the patriot forces at 
the battle of Bennington. In 1787 he removed from Coleraine, Mass., 
and located on the east side of the Sacandaga river, not far from the 
Providence town line. His family at this time consisted of his wife, 
Elizabeth Newell, and two children. He at once cleared land for a 
farm and soon had a fine tract of lowland along the river under cultiva- 
tion. Here his family increased to eight sons and two daughters. Of 
these. Squire Stark married Louisa Higley and resided until his death 
upon the homestead. 

One of Stark's earliest neighbors, who may have come about the 
same time, or possibly earlier, was Jonathan Anderson. He had sev- 
eral children, one of whom, Aaron, was the father of Dr. John K. An- 
derson, for many years a practicing physician in the town of Edinburgh 
and other parts of New York State. Among others who settled in the 
Stark and Anderson neighborhoods were Nathaniel Bass, Sylvanus 
Westcot and Samuel Randall. 

In 1795 James and Ani)- Partridge came from Connecticut and estab- 
lished a home on the hill near Edinburgh, or Beecher's Hollow. Their 
children were named Thomas, Rebecca, Ruanna, Polly, Frederick, 
August, Roxanna, Eunice and James. The latter, born in 1797, spent 
his entire life on the homestead, which is still in possession of his 



106 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

family. His wife was a granddaughter of Philip Fraker, a prominent 
pioneer of Day. Among Partridge's neighbors were William Trow- 
bridge, Hezekiah Ranney, William Davis, Jordan Sprague and Dr. 
Gaylor. Isaac Deming, who located very early in the northeastern 
part of the town, built the first grist mill, about 1793. This mill was 
situated on the north bank of Beecher's creek, at Beecher's Hollow, 
where for many years the brick grist mill has stood. John and Mehit- 
able vSumner came from Ashford, Conn., with five sons, five daughters 
and several grandchildren, about 1797 or 1798, possibl}^ a little earlier, 
and located on the west side of the Sacandaga river, east of Beecher's 
Hollow. Their sons took up farms in the same neighborhood. John 
Sumner, jr., the eldest son, built the first saw mill in town, prior to 
1800. It was located on Batcheller creek, on the opposite side of the 
river, on the site of the present village of Batchellerville. Another 
son, Robert, was the first supervisor of Edinburgh, serving four years, 
from 1801 to 180-i inclusive. The head of the family, John Sumner, 
was a cousin of the father of Charles Sumner, the great statesman. 
Near Beecher's Hollow Samuel Cheadle was another early inhabitant. 
In 1797 he was married, in Edinburgh, to Rhoda Sprague. In the 
same locality Samuel Downing lived prior to 1800. 

On account of the limited population of Edinburgh at the time, there 
were few schools in the town until the early part of the present centur}\ 
The only teacher of those days of whom there is any record was Daniel 
Abbott, from Connecticut, who taught school in 1794. 

The only religious body in Edinburgh prior to the present century 
was a Baptist church organized in 1798 by Rev. Mr. Munro, of Galway. 
No house of worship was built, however, until 1816, and this was razed 
in 1852, when the society ceased to exist. 

MALTA. 

Samuel Clark was among the most influential men who settled in the 
town of Malta during Revolutionary times, in 1776 or 1777. He came 
from Newburgh, N. Y. His residence stood opposite that of Samuel 
Smith, whose settlement is referred to in a previous chapter. In it 
was held the first court for Saratoga county. Mr. Clark was a presi- 
dential elector in 1792, voting for George Washington at the second 
election under the constitution. He was also the first supervisor of the 
town of Malta, serving in 1802 and 1803. His home was situated at 
East Line, first on the Ballston side of the line; but soon afterwards he 



NORTHUMBERLAND. 1783-1800. 107 

built a house on the east side of the boundary line, in Malta. He 
owned about six hundred acres of land. His sons were Jehial, who re- 
moved to Sullivan county ; Samuel, who remained in Saratoga county, 
and James, the father of James H. Clark of East Line. Of his daugh- 
ters, Charlotte became Mrs. Miller of Ballston; Elizabeth married Rev. 
William Anson and finally settled on the old homestead; Lydia became 
Mrs. Cooper of Cayuga county, and Patty became Mrs. Valentine and 
removed to Michigan. 

Among others who settled in the western part of Malta were Noah 

Olmstead, Rockwell, Ebenezer Millard and Obadiah Tompkins. 

Other early settlers in the town were Luther Landon, who lived north 
of Malta; Dean Chase, at Malta Ridge; Ebenezer Valentine, south 
of Malta; Cornelius Abeel, east of Round Lake; Stephen Ireland, 
near Saratoga lake ; Ebenezer Dibble and Reuben Doolittle. 

Several of the churches which existed in Malta during the closing 
years of the eighteenth century are now extinct. The first church 
of which there is any record was " The Presbyterian Society of East 
Ballston," which was incorporated March 1, 1793, and which may have 
existed some time before that date. Its trustees at that time were 
Uriah Benedict, David Ramsey, Gershom Gilbert, William Dunning, 
Samuel Clark and Joseph Rockwell. The first meeting-house' was 
erected about 1800, and stood on the East Line road about eight hun- 
dred rods south of the residence of Samuel Clark. 

NORTHUMBERLAND. 
On account of the exciting scenes which occurred in the town of 

* This church afterward became Congregational and the house of worship was removed fur- 
ther south, to the corner of the old cemetery. A few years later the society removed to Malta- 
ville, abandoning its old house at the cemetery and erecting a new one at Maltaville. For several 
years thereafter the church was unsettled, being Congregational part of the time and Presby- 
terian the balance of the time, but in IHl'i the Presbyterian church at Malta was organized and 
the old church at Maltaville was abandoned. It is said that the first church, located on the west 
side of the East Line road, in the town of Ballston, was Presbyterian. Rev. Lebbeus Armstrong 
bought the building and moved it to Benedict's Corners, but no society was organized. The 
church became Congregational in 1834, but in 18i0 returned to Presbyterianism. The organization 
of the church at Malta (Dunning Street) absorbed most of the Maltaville society, which thereupon 
became extinct. For several years afterward the old building was used by the Methodists and 
for union meetings. 

Another extinct church is the Methodist Episcopal church at East Line. The house of worship, 
now a school house, was built in 1809, but the society was incorporated March 20, 1800, as "the 
Methodist Episcopal Church of Stillwater," Malta then being a part of Stillwater. The first offi- 
cers were Jeremiah Hart, Frederick Conley, John Myers and Stephen Hart. Services were dis- 
continued in 1870, the relations of the members being transferred either to Ballston Spa or Jones 
ville. 



108 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Northumberland during the Revolution and the numerous perils which 
confronted the inhabitants of that town, practically no settlements were 
made within its borders between the time of the Burgoyne invasion 
and the peace of 1783. In that year — or at least as early as 1784 — 
General Peter Gansevoort, the hero of Fort Stanwix during the expedi- 
tion of General St. Leger in 1777, purchased the old Hugh Munroe 
property in the northern part of the town. This property had been 
owned by the Tory Munroe, who joined Burgoyne's expedition and 
who also made the attack upon Ballston in 1780; but the State confis- 
cated it and sold it to General Gansevoort. This gallant warrior re- 
sided in Albany, but spent his summers upon his newly- acquired estate, 
a fine one, in that portion of Northumberland which ever since has 
borne his name. He was not a permanent resident, but his interests 
at Gansevoort were so numerous and he spent so much of his time there 
that he certainly deserves the place accorded him in the history of the 
town. General Herman Gansevoort, his son, built the famous Ganse- 
voort mansion. The family made frequent purchases of real estate 
until they finally owned a large tract in the northwestern part of the 
town. 

General Gansevoort made great improvements to the old Munroe 
property. Soon after his arrival he found the irons and stones of the 
Munroe mill hidden in the woods, and used them in the construction of 
new mills. He improved his land, built good roads and made the 
country about his home as inviting as possible for newcomers. 

James McCreedy ' and John Terhune removed from Fishkill in 1785 
and located on land purchased of Mr. Campbell of Schenectady. Mr. 
McCreedy's farm was that which, many years afterward, was occupied 
by Abram Marshall. Mr. Terhune's farm adjoined it. Both had served 
in the American army during the Revolution, and they were related by 
marriage. Both families became prominent in the affairs of the town. 
Nicholas Vandenburgh removed into the town about 1790 and bought a 
farm north of the 1,600 acre tract occupied in 1772 by Wynant, John 
and Cornelius Vandenburgh. He was supposed to be a brother of the 
latter three. " Captain " Samuel Lewis ^ bought a farm just after the 

1 It is worthy of note that five generations of the McCreedy family served this country in the 
various wars in which it has been engaged. James McCreedy, his father, and his grandfather all 
fought with the American army in the Revolution. William McCreedy, his son, who lived for 
many years in Schuylerville, served in the war of 1812, as did his three brothers, Jeremiah, Gama- 
liel and Charles. William McCreedy's sons served in the Union army in the Civil war. 

2 Samuel Lewis had been a lieutenant in the force under General Gansevoort at Fort Stanwi.x. 
Heleft three sons. Prof. Taylor Lewis, a professor in Union College, Schenectady; General Samuel 
Lewis, of Gansevoort; and Morgan Lewis, of Gansevoort. All are deceased. 



CORINTH, 1783-1800. 109 

war of a Mr. Graham. Ebenezer Bacon came from Connecticut in 1794 
and settled at what has since been known as " Bacon Hill." He built 
a large tavern at that place and also ran a store for many years. This 
hamlet was quite an important place until after the opening of the 
Champlain canal, when most of the trade was diverted to Northumber- 
land and Schuylerville. As far as can be learned Bacon's store was the 
first in town. Evert Walker and Reed Lewis were other early inhab- 
itants at Bacon Hill, before 1800. The latter married a daughter of 
Mr. Bacon. He did an extensive business as harnessmaker and saddler. 
He had two sons and a daughter. 

A short distance east of Gansevoort a number of families from New 
Jersey settled before 1800. Among them were Colonel Sidney Berry 
and the Craig and Nevins families. The former became a very prom- 
inent citizen, serving frequently in official positions. He was the first 
supervisor of the town, serving in 1798 and 1799. His daughter Betsey 
married James Rogers, son of General Thomas Rogers. He died in 
1810, and she subsequently married Esek Cowen," who afterward be- 
came one of the most eminent lawyers in the United States. John 
Hammond located about 1790 on a farm between Bacon Hill and North- 
umberland. Thomas Hartwell was the first settler in the vicinity of 
Brownsville. William Copeland was another early inhabitant. His 
wife was a daughter of Captain Palmer. Others who located in town 
during this period included John De Monts, above Fort Miller, who 
maintained a ferry at that point for several years ; James Gamble, James 

Cramer, Jared Palmer and Buel. Charles Carpenter had the first 

store at Northumberland, about 1800. Among the early physicians in 
town were Dr. Jesse Billings, grandfather of Jesse Billings, a wealthy 
boat builder and capitalist of the town at present; Dr. Collins and Dr. 
Reynolds. 

Little is known of the early schools of Northumberland. Mr. Fra- 
zier was one of the first teachers, but where his school stood is not 
shown by the records. Isaac B. Payne, John Metcalf and Robert Mc- 
Gregor were among the early school commissioners. There is also no 
existing record of any church in the town before the present century. 

CORINTH. 

One of the first to come to what is now the town of Corinth during 

' A sketch of Judge Cowen will be found in the chapter on the Bench and Bar of Saratoga 
county. 



HO OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the Revolution was Benjamin Ide, formerly of Jonesville, in Clifton 
Park, who located in the Clothier neighborhood in 1777. He had a 
family of six children; Thomas, Benjamin J., Timothy, Ebenezer, Pa- 
tience and Hannah. A large number of his descendants reside in the 
town. William Grippen (or Grippin) came the following year. Among 
his neighbors were Hathaway Randall and Lawrence Barber. Jona- 
than Hodges, who had served in the American army in the Revolution, 
removed from Rhode Island to Greenfield in 1783, and soon afterward 
settled in Corinth. The late Claudius Hodges of Corinth was a son. 
Daniel Boardman came to Jessup's Landing soon after the war, where, 
in 1793 or 1793, he built a grist mill and store. He became prominent 
and very wealthy, and used much of his money for the advancement 
of religion, education and public enterprises generally. His sister, 
Rosanna Boardman, the wife of Benjamin Cowles, and her husband 
came to Jessup's Landing at the same time, probably about 1789 or 
1790. Their children were Nathaniel, Zina H., Chauncey, Orlando, 
B. Sedgwick, Henry E., Daniel H., Hannah and Rosetta. Mr. Cowles 
became a man of great prominence, and held various public offices. 
He was elected supervisor of the town of Hadley (of which Corinth 
then formed a part) in 1801 and held that office until the organiza- 
tion of Corinth in 1818; then was the first supervisor of the new town, 
serving two years. Again he served in the same capacity in 1836, 
1833, 1834 and 1843. In 1812 he was made associate judge of the 
Court of Common Pleas, and in 1815 he was made master in chancery 
and also elected to the Assembly. For many years he served as 
justice of the peace. Stephen Ashley was another early settler at 
Jessup's Landing, where, in 1800, he open the first tavern. 

South Corinth, which is located south of the center of the town, was 
first settled about 1790, though there were a few inhabitants near by a 
few years earlier. Among these were Adam Comstock,' who came 

' Adam Comstock was born in Warwick, R. I., in 1T40; in 17li.5 he married Margaret McGregor, 
and they had a family of seventeen children. At the beginning of the Revolution he entered the 
army and soon became a colonel, and served under Washington, being one of the soldiers who 
endured the hardships at Valley Forge. He served with distinction. After the war he was 
elected to the Rhode Island Legislature. In 1785 he removed to Schenectady and the following 
year came to Corinth. Two years later he erected the first frame building in town, but soon re- 
moved to Ballston, then successively to Milton, Greenfield, Hadley, then back to Corinth. In 
ITTia, while residing in Milton, he was elected to the Assembly, and was successively re-elected 
for twelve years. In 1793 he was appointed associate judge of the Court of Common Pleas; in 
1794 was appointed one of Ule first justices of the peace of Greenfield; from 180.5 to 1808 was a 
raeinber of the State Senate, holding a seat in the Council of Appointment during that period ; 
and in 1804 was a presidential elector, voting for Thomas Jefferson. He died in Corinth April 10, 
1829, and was buried in the family burial ground on his farm. Adam Corastock's son, Oliver C. 



MOREAU, 1783-1800. Ill 

from Schenectady in 1786 and bought a good-sized farm on the south- 
ern boundary of the town. He became one of the most prominent 
men, not only in the town but in the county. In 1796 Nathaniel Ed- 
wards ' located about a mile south of the village of South Corinth. He 
and his family were prominently identified with the welfare and pros- 
perity of their adopted town. Frederick Parkman, who came to town 
in 1796, had the first tavern; and the grist mill which he built on Kay- 
aderosseras creek was the first between Ballston and Jessup's Landing. 
He was a grandfather of Frederick Parkman of Jessup's Landing. 
Jeremiah Eddy had a blacksmith shop near by in 1796 or 1797. John 
Purqua" settled about a mile north of South Corinth two or three years 
earlier than this. Among other early inhabitants of the town were 
Silas Nims, Jonathan Deuel, who had, at South Cprinth, the first lumber 
mills in town, in 1800; Zebedee Mosher, Jephtha Clark, Timothy 
Brown, Washington Chapman, James Cooper, Elias Lindse}^, Stephen 
Bray ton and William Bray ton. 

As far as can be learned no school existed in Corinth until 1800, when 
one was built at South Corinth and another at Jessup's Landing. There 
also is no record of the establishment of any church within the limits 
of the present town during the eighteenth century. 

MOREAU. 

Probably the most prominent man to settle in the town of Moreau 
after the close of the Revolution was General Thomas Rogers, who had 
been a colonel in the American army. He settled in 1783 upon the 
farm formerly owned by David Jones, the young Tory who was the 
betrothed husband of Jeanie McCrea, who was killed by the Indians 
while they were carrying her to the British camp in 1777, as described 
in a preceding chapter. The Jones estate was confiscated by the 
State and sold to General Rogers,' who is said to have bargained for it 

Comstock, was a member of assembly from Seneca county in 1810 and 1812, and a member of 
Congress for three terms, beginning in 1813. The latter's son, Oliver C. Comstock, jr., served 
several years as a member of the Michigan State Legislature; and Noah D. Comstock, a great- 
grandson of Adam Comstock, .served several years in the Wisconsin State Legislature. 

^ Nathaniel Edwards served with the English army in the French and Indian war, and during 
the Revolution was a captain in the patriot army, enlisting from Connecticut. His son, Isaac, 
enlisted at the age of sixteen and served the entire eight years. The latter had six sons and one 
daughter. Of these Hon. Edward Edwards of South Corinth was a member of assembly in 1)^8, 
I8G4 and 1865. He became a large landowner and prominent merchant. 

'Mr. Purqua had served, against his wishes, in a Hessian regiment engaged by Great Brit- 
ain to help her put down the American Revolution. Three years after coming to America he 
deserted and entered the American army, serving until the close of the war. 

8 General Thomas Rogers is said to have been a lineal descendant of John Rogers, who was 



112 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

with Jones before the war. The population of the town was consider- 
ably increased in 1790 by the immigration thereto of a large number of 
settlers, some of whom came from Connecticut and some from other 

parts of Saratoga county. Paulinus Potter, Daniel Hamlin and 

Churchill came that year from Connecticut. All were related by 
marriage. Mr. Hamlin's home was what was afterwards known as the 
Tearse farm. He had three sons — Daniel, Lent and Truman. Several 
descendants still live in the town, where they are prominent citizens. 
Moses Lewis came from Connecticut in the same year. Dr. Billy J. 
Clark," who became one of the most influential and generally beloved 
citizens of the town, located in 1799 at Clark's Corners. He and Dr. 
Littlefield were the earliest phy.sicians in town. Dexter Whipple and 
Elisha Danford located east of South Glens Falls about 1800. They 
were brothers-in-law and came from Connecticut. Oliver Hubbard, 

Ichabod Hawley, Andrews and Henry Martin were also early 

settlers in that vicinity. John Albrow located near Fortsville, and 
Ezra Hooper and Irenaeus Hulbert at Clark's Corners. Lewis Brown 
was another early inhabitant. 

Among the early teachers were Dr. Gillett, Asahel Potter and 
Messrs. Sherman, Minor aud Beebe. 

The only religious organization in Moreau in the eighteenth century 
was the First Baptist church, which was organized in 1795.' Two 

burned at the stake as a heretic in England, because he preached against Romanism, the estab- 
lished religion of England. He had three sons — Thomas, James and Halsey. He was the first 
supervisor of Moreau, serving in the office from 1805 to 1808 inclusive. One of^his sons married a 
daughter of Colonel Sidney Berry of Northumberland and who afterward became the wife of 
Hon. Esek Cowen. The Rogers family were all influential and prominently identified with the 
early development of Moreau. 

* From existing records, enhanced by tradition, it would appear that Dr. Clark was a man of 
almost unbounded influence. He studied medicine with Dr. Wicker of Easton, located across 
the river in Washington county. Dr. Wicker had an exclusive practice in Moreau and North- 
umberland, and it was upon his advice that young Dr. Clark located permanently in Moreau. 
He at once became identified with the best interests of the town, and was honored by being 
chosen supervisor in 1809, to succeed Thomas Rogers, and again in 1831. In the latter year he be- 
gan his term of service as one of the school commissioners, and assisted in the work of dividing 
the town into six school districts. He was also the organizer, in 1808, of the Moreau and North- 
umberland Temperance Society. The first meeting of this society was held April 13, 1808, at 
Clark's Corners, and upon the organization of the society Dr. Clark was chosen secretary. The 
society existed many years and was a great power for good in the community, and even to this 
day Dr. Billy J. Clark's name is frequently heard mentioned as the pioneer temperance reformer 
in Saratoga county. 

' Little is known of the early history of this church. It was served by these pastors in early 
times; Calvin Hulbert, Joseph H. EUice, James Rogers, Elisha Blakeman Charles Williams, John 
C. Holt, Harvey Slade, J. H. Dwyer, Joseph W. Sawyer, R. O. Dwyer, Ebenezer Hall, L. L. Still, 
Amos R. Wells and George Fisher. 



WILTON, 1783-1800. 113 

years later it was admitted into the Shaftsbury association. In 1805 it 
joined the Saratoga association. 

WILTON. 

James and William McGregor, who came to Wilton in 1787, became 
the most influential inhabitants of that town in their day. James Mc- 
Gregor located a short distance north of Wilton, where he built a story 
and a half frame house His sons were John, James, William, Alexan- 
der, Peter, Duncan and Gregor. He had three daughters. Elizabeth 
became the wife of Horatio Buell; Margaret married Lewis Thompson 
and Mary Ann married Nicholas Vanderwerker. Duncan McGregor 
located in Glens Falls, and was the chief mover in making Mount 
McGregor, north of Wilton, a popular summer resort. William Mc- 
Gregor, brother of the first James, settled east of Wilton, his home 
being about a mile from that of his brother. His sons were John, 
William, James and Alexander. Of his three daughters — Ann, Char- 
lotte and Elizabeth — the first named became Mrs. Emerson, and the 
last named Mrs. Peter ^klclntyre. 

The town had a number of inhabitants, however, when the Mc- 
Gregors located there. During the early years of the Revolution — 
certainly as early as 1775 — Reuben Stiles, who came from Rhode 
Island, removed with his family to Wilton, then known as Palmer 
Town, and built a home at what was afterwards known as Stiles's Cor- 
ners. He had a family of eight sons and one daughter — John, David, 
Reuben, Eli, Peter, Isaac, Johnson, Henry and Angeline, who married 
James D. King. Eli, Isaac and Peter settled in Wilton and became 
men of prominence. Near Mr. Stiles lived Benjamin Phillips, a hardy 
^'ermo^t Yankee, who later opened a tavern. The children of the two 
families intermarried, and their descendants are numerous. Stephen 
and Ebenezer King, brothers, came from Dutchess county in 1775. 
The former opened a tavern after the war, which is said to have been 
the first in the town. The latter is believed to have been the first set- 
tler at Wiltonville. William King was another early inhabitant and 
tavern-keeper, but probably was a representative of another family. 
John Laing, a hardy Scotchman, located near Emerson's Corners about 
1775, where he erected a saw mill and opened a store. He conducted 
both up to the time of his death, which occurred in the spring of 1793. 
Peter Johnston, also a Scotchman and a brother-in-law of Laing, 
came to town about the same time and located in the same neighbor- 



11) OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

hood. Stafford Carr came from Rhode Island about 1701. J(jhn Boyce 
came soon after the close of the Revolution and settled in the south- 
eastern part of the town. Robert Miliigan, James Millijjfan, Enoch 
Place and John Kendrick lived in the same neighborhood. In 1790 
Broadstreet Emenson built a home a short distance north of what after- 
ward became known as Emerson's Corners; and Dudley and Joseph 
Emerson, his brothers, soon afterward located in the same neiglibor- 
hood. All the Emersons came from Lyme, Conn. They became 
wealthy and prominent men, having a great influence in the manage- 
ment of public affairs. Broadstreet Emerson was an early magistrate, 
serving for many years. Edward Bevins was an early settler, about 
1780, in the vicinity of the old Loudon church. He served as a private 
and later as a drum major in the Revolutionary war, and participated 
in llie battle of Bunker Ilill. David Adams came from Connecticut 
a!)out the same time and settled near him. A man named Slate settled 
about 1704 in the southwestern part of the town, where he built a mill 
ou Loughberry lake. 

Isaac Ostrom is believed to have been the second storekeeper in town. 
He began business in 1705, some time after John Laing. Another 
early store was kept at ICmerson's Corners by Walter Doe. Nathan 
Hinckley had the first inn there. Another, near by, was run by Dud- 
ley limerson. 

CLirrON PARK. 

The territory embraced within the limits of the town of Clifton I'ark, 
lying adjacent to Half Moon and near Schenectady, was populated 
early in the eighteenth century, but settlements were almost suspended 
during the Revolutionary period on account o£ the repeated depreda- 
tions of the Indians in that locality. 

ICdward Rexford and his family came to Clifton Park from Eng- 
land and located near what is now Rexford's Flats a year or two 
before the Revolution. They remained there during that conflict, 
the head of the family being away from home much of the time in 
the service of the American government as a patriot soldier They 
first built a log house on the lowland ; but soon after they erected 
a substantial frame house on the site now occupied by the residence 
of James B. McKain. Mr. Rexford's three sons — Elisha, Edward and 
Eleazer — all settled in town. His daughter, Lu^ina, married Ephraim 
Knowlton and continued to reside in town. 



CLIFTON PARK, 178;',-1800. lir, 

AmoiijT others who settled in town, a few j^ears later than did Mr. 
Rexford, probably about 177G or 1777, was Nathan Garnsey, whose de- 
seendants became numerous and influential. Hislirothcr had preceded 
him; but being a Tory felt constrained to remove to a more congenial 
location, after having transferred his property to Nathan Garnsey, who 
was a patriot. One of his daughters married a young man named 
Kennedy, who became the father of Garnsey and Roscius R. Kennedy 
of Jonesville. Others who lived in town as early as 1790, and pciMiaps 
several years before that date, included the following: 

James Jones, who kept an inn near Jonesville, which place was named 
in his honor; Simeon Van Camp, who had a tavern on the site of Clif- 
ton Park village; Hicks, who also had a tavern about a mile from 

that of V^an Camp; Adrian Hegeman, whose home was on "Sugar 
Hill;" Samuel Sweatland, Israel Brooks, Robert Hldridge and Solo- 
mon Waite, who lived near Jonesville; Richard Peters, north of Visch- 
er's Ferry; James Groom, who lived near the corners which still bear 
his name; John Terpenny, who lived in the Groom neighborhood ; John 
Knowlton, Jeremiah Cramer, Jacob Fort and Abraham Moe, who lived 
at Moe's Corners. The latter was a man of wide influence, and served 
as town clerk from 1791 to I82S. 'i'homas Young, father of Hon. Sam- 
uel Young, settled between Burnt Hills and Groom's Corners in 1785. 
He came from Berkshire, Mass. His son Samuel' became a man of 
great prominence. Isaac Southard located in town in ISOO. Two of 
his sons, John and Jonas, remained in Clifton Park, and another son, 
vSamuel L., settled in Ballston. 

There is in existence no record of any schools in this town prior to 
1800, though schools undoubtedly were maintained, owing to the large 
population. 

The only church which was established in Clifton Park during the 
century of which we are writing was the Baptist church, which was 
constituted February 12, 1795, by Mathew Palmer, Philip King, James 
(iroom, John Warren, Rufus Morse, Rebecca Palmer and Eunice Cross- 
man. Kev. Abijah Peek, the first pastor, was a soldier of the Revolu- 
tion. In 1784 he settled in Galway, became actively interested in 
church work and February 9, 1793, was licensed to preach. He was 
the founder of the Baptist church of Clifton Park." 

' See chnjltcr on the lleiich ami Mar. 
"This einircli linil a membership of Uiii'ly-six in 1HI)0. Kev. Aljijah Peck, tlic first preacher, 
was not reRnlarly ordained nntil Marcli la, IHOI. The chnreli had (in ITilli) joined Uie old Slinfts- 
Iniry assoeialion, not joining the Saratoga association until ISUI. 



116 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

HADLEY. 

There were no permanent settlements in Hadley, as far as can be 
learned, before the Revolution, and very few prior to the nineteenth 
century. Practically nothing is known of Richard Hilton, who is sup- 
posed to have been the first inhabitant. The first pioneer of whom 
anything definite can be learned was Alexander Stewart, who settled 
in the southeastern part of the town, on the banks of the Hudson 
river, in the spring of 1790. He had a farm of one hundred and fifty 
acres of rich flatlands, which he cleared and cultivated. He and his 
wife, Elizabeth, were the parents of nine children — -Nancy, John, Neal, 
David, Charles, Daniel, Betsey, James and William. Henry Walker 
came about the same time and settled on the north bank of the Sacan- 
daga river, at its junction with the Hudson. He was the first to locate 
on the site of the village of Hadley. As early as 1791 a saw mill was 
erected in the same neighborhood by Delane & Hazzard. 

Six years after the settlement of Alexander Stewart and Henry 
Walker, David Dayton bought the adjoining farm and founded a home. 
His family consisted of five sons — Joel, Henry, Telam, Orange and 
Erastus. Elijah Ellis came from Shaftsbury, Vt., in 1800 south of the 
Sacandaga, at its junction with the Hudson. A short distance up the 
former river he built a saw mill, and finally removed about two miles 
to the southwest of his first home. He had a family of eleven children. 
Joseph Gilbert, who had fought with the American army in the Rev- 
olution, was an early settler at Hadley Hill, but may not have come 
until 1801 or 1802. 

As early as 1791 a school was taught in the Stewart neighborhood by 
a man named Wilson. Another was started soon afterward by a man 
named Pitcher. Both school houses were built of logs, with slabs for 
seats. There were no desks. No churches were established in town 
imtil well along in the present century. 

GREENFIELD. 

There is no knowledge of any settlements in Greenfield prior to the 
Revolutionary period. Tradition says that Thomas Root and Anthony 
Haggerty were located in town in 1778, but nothing about their lives 
or place of residence is known. The first permanent settlements 
probably were made in the spring of 178G by William, John, Benjamin 
and Charles Deake, the latter's son, Charles Deake, jr., and Gershom 



GREENFIELD, 1783-1800. 117 

Morehouse, who located near Middle Grove. About the same time 
William Scott located at North Greenfield, originally known as Scott's 
Corners; Isaac Reynolds, near Greenfield Centre, and the Fitch family 
at St. John's Corners. The St. John family were pioneers, but very 
little is known of them. St. John's Corners was named after this 
family. In the same year Isaac Reynolds bought a farm north of 
Greenfield Centre. He had five sons — Isaac, Darius, .Stephen, Jere- 
miah and David. Isaac, Stephen and Jeremiah remained in town. 
Gershom Morehouse, mentioned above, who came from Greenfield, 
Conn., built the first saw mill in town, at Middle Grove. In 1788 he 
returned to his native home, married Hannah Smith; brought his bride 
to his new home and continued to operate his farm and mill. In 1792 
he built the first grist mill in town, on the banks of the Kayaderosseras 
creek. The same year he sold both his mills to Dr. Isaac Voungs and 
removed to a farm a short distance away. He built, for various per- 
sons, nearly all the early mills in Greenfield, and amassed quite a for- 
tune for those days. 

The Deake' family, who came from Rhode Island, were prominent in 
the affairs of the town in the early days. Their home was located 
about a mile and a half north of Middle Grove. Charles Deake was 
the head of the family. The others whose names have been mentioned 
were his sons. Several of his descendants became men of prominence. 
William Scott, the pioneer of Scott's Corners (North Greenfield), emi- 
grated from Ireland a few years before the Revolution. He joined the 
American army at the beginning of the war, fought at Bunker Hill 
and remained in the service until peace had been declared. He rose 
from a private through the various grades until he became a colonel. 
He was the first supervisor of Greenfield, served many years as a 
justice of the peace, and was a prominent Mason. 

The year 1787 witnessed many additions to the population of Green- 
field. In that year John Benedict settled in the southern part of the 
town, where he remained for twelve years. Nathaniel Seymour, Alex- 
ander H. Scott and Benjamin Ingham located near him about the 
same time. The latter's son, Rufus, settled in the northern part of the 
town. Benjamin Clinch started the first store in town, at Porter's Cor- 
ners, in that year. James Vail, also an early merchant at Porter's Cor- 
ners, located there in 1787. Isaac Demmon settled at Locust Grove; 
and Caleb Sherman a short distance north of Middle Grove. The lat- 

^ The name is nuw written D:tke. It appears as Deake in the early records of the town. 



118 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ter was a native of Rhode Island, but had resided in Washington 
county, N. Y., previous to his removal to Greenfield. 

In 1789 Joel Reynolds opened the first tavern in town, at the place 
now owned and occupied by Dr. lanthus G. Johnson, at Greenfield 
Centre. In the same year Rev. Elias Gilbert settled near the southern 
boundary of the town. At the beginning of the Revolution he was 
living at Newport, R. I. After various changes of residence in New 
England he came to Pittstown, Rensselaer county, N. Y. While 
working at his trade, that of cabinet making, in the latter town, he be- 
gan to preach. Soon after coming to Greenfield he was chiefly instru- 
mental in organizing the Congregational church, of which he became 
the first pastor. He died in 1814. 

Jonathan Hoyt and Jonathan Wood also came about 1789. The latter 
lived about a mile east of the Congregational church founded by Rev. 
Elias Gilbert. His two sons, James and Jeremiah Wood, were graduated 
from Union College and became ministers. Walter Hewitt located in 
town in 1 790. For many years he served as deacon in the Congregational 
church, and was one of the prime movers in the organization of the 
Greenfield Total Abstinence society. Daniel Cronkhite, who came from 
Hillsdale, Columbia county, N. Y., settled in the town in 1791. John 
Pettit, a native of Berkshire county, Mass., who had served in the patriot 
army, purchased a farm a little north of Greenfield Centre in 1793 and 
removed upon it with his wife, Mary Barnes. He became one of the most 
influential men in the town.' Peter Robinson came from Washington 
county, N. Y., about 1793 and located near Greenfield Centre. His 
four brothers — Peleg, Sanford, Giles and Benjamin — came soon after- 
ward and settled in the Haggerty Hill neighborhood. Benjamin S. 
Robinson, a representative citizen of Greenfield, is a grandson of Ben- 
jamin Robinson. Esek Tourtelot located about two miles north of 
Porter's Corners in 1795. Nathaniel Daniels built the first cloth-dress- 
ing and fulling mill in town in 179i. This mill stood on the north branch 
of the Kayaderosseras creek, about two miles north of Saratoga Springs 
village. Dr. Isaac Youngs, who, as described in the foregoing, bought 
the first mill built by Gershom Morehouse, was one of the first — per- 

' Upon the erection of the town Mr. Pettit was appointed a justice of the peace, and seived 
in that capacity forty-one consecutive years. He was supervisor from 1812-181.5 inclusive, and 
was a member of assembly in Ibl" and 18d:J. Three of his sons— John, James and Paris— served in 
the war of 1813. John was carried to Quebec as a prisoner and Paris was killed in battle at 
Sackett's Harbor. Another son, William R., removed to Gorham, Ontario county, N. Y., where 
he was elected to the Assembly in 1852. John Pettit died January 1, 1840. 



GREKNFIliLD, 1783-1800. 119 

haps the first — physician of Greenfield, but he practiced very Httle, 
confining his time to his mill propertj'. Elihu Anthony, who located 
in the north part of the town in 1792, was for many years pastor of the 
Friends' Society in North Greenfield. He was an orthodox Quaker, 
and lived in Greenfield until his death, in 1803. 

One of the most prominent men in Greenfield for many years was 
Asahel Porter." He first located at St. John's Corners about 1793, 
where he started a store and a tavern. Before 1800 he removed to the 
corners which bore his name, where he remained in the mercantile 
business until his death, which occurred in 1821. He was the richest 
man in town. 

Noah Weed bought three hundred acres of land in South Greenfield, 
in 1793, from Walter Hewitt, James Dunning and Daniel Crawford. 
He came from Cambridge, Washington county. Salmon Child, a na- 
tive of Connecticut, son of a captain in the American army in the Rev- 
olution and himself a soldier in that war, came to Greenfield with his 
father soon after the close of the war and settled in the southern ])art 
of the town. He was a man of the highest character, and held many 
offices of trust and responsibility." Esek Cowen^ was another distin- 
guished resident of Greenfield, whither he came with his father, Jo- 
seph Cowen, in 1793. The Fitch family referred to in the foregoing 
came from Connecticut and settled at St. John's Corners, east of Green- 
field Centre, in 178(3. They comprised Ebenezer Fitch, Giles Fitch, 
Capt. John St. John, who married Hannah Fitch, and a relative named 
Smith. The two first named, brothers, were grandsons of Thomas 
Fitch, governor of Connecticut. Shortly after their arrival Maj. Jabez 
Fitch, another brother, came from Fairfield, Conn., and bought five 
hundred acres of land near Locust Grove, where he built a grist mill 
and saw mill. The first frame dwelling house in Greenfield was built 
by Ebenezer Fitch. In 1798 the latter moved to Stafford's Bridge, hav- 
ing sold his farm to Ephraim Bullock, grandfather of Judge Augustus 
Bockes. Maj. Jabez Fitch, Giles Fitch and Captain St. John all served 
in the Revolution. Hannah, daughter of Ebenezer Fitch, became the 
wife of Alpheus Bullard of Schuylerville and the mother of David A. 

' From 1791 to 1801 inclusive Mr. Porter represented his town on the board of supervisors, and 
was at one time chairman o£ that body. He served in the .Assembly in 1S05 and ISIJG, and was 
sheriff two terms, from 1807 to 181*.i. He was also a prominent Mason, and when he died in April, 
hS-il, prominent men from many parts of the .State attended his funeral. One of his daughters 
became the wife of the Hon. William A. Beach, the eminent jurist. 
' See chapter oa the Belich and Bar. 



120 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Bullard of Schuylerville and Gen. E. F. Bullard of Saratoga Springs. 
Howell Gardiner, who located in the southern part of the town in 1799, 
on a farm purchased of John Benedict, became a man of influence in 
the community, and was frequently called to public office.' 

Among other residents of Greenfield prior to 1800 were Dr. Asa C. 
Barney, one of the first physicians in the town; Captain Allen Hale, an 
officer in the Revolution; Nathan Medbery, Zenas Winsor, Israel Will- 
iams, Stephen Comstock, John Smith, Elijah Smith, John Weed, Abra- 
ham Weed, Joseph Wood, Daniel Crawford, Jeremiah Westcott, Prince 
Wing, Lewis Graves, Ambrose Cole, Abner Williams, Paul Anthony, 
Samuel Bailey, Jonathan Deuel, Job Wliipple, Esek Whipple, Peter 
Hendricks, Robert Early, John Harris, Benjamin Grinnell, Olney La- 
tham, William Belden, Jared Weed, John King, Ezekiel Harris, Joseph 
Mitchell, Gideon Hoyt and Israel Rose. 

The first school of which a record has been preserved was opened 
about 1795 in a log house two miles east of Greenfield Centre. Rich- 
ard Fish and Slaughter Close were early teachers. Twenty years after 
the former, in connection with Jeremiah Goodrich, had a private school 
in that vicinity. It became very successful and finally was removed to 
Albany. 

The first church in town was the First Congregational church of 
Greenfield, which, as stated in preceding pages, was established through 
the efforts of Rev. Elias Gilbert. The organization was effected in July, 
1790. Among those who signed the covenant were Elnathan Scofield, 
William Belden, Benjamin Ingham, Jonathan Wood, Joseph Wood, 
Nathaniel Seymour, Isaac Weed, John Benedict, Jonathan Hoyt, James 
Dunning, Stephen Crawford, Elisha Scofield, Enoch Kellogg, Nathan 
Fitch, Daniel Calkins, David Calkins, Eli Weed, T2^1Tas''Gnbert, Mary 
Scofield, Priscilla Belden, Mary Westcott, Martha Wood, Mary Sey- 
mour, Hannah Weed, Lucy Benedict, Elizabeth Hoyt and Abigail Hoyt. 
The first officers chosen were: Deacons, Elnathan Scofield, Benjamin 
Ingham; clerk, Gilbert Weed." The year following the First Baptist 

^ Howell Gardiner was descended in the iifth generation, from Lyon Gardiner, who purchased 
Gardiner's Island, L. I , trom the Indians in ]f).S9. His father was Jeremiah Gardiner of Kast- 
hampton, L. I. He was born January (i, irvti, at Easthanipton, and died in Greenfield February 
86, 1821). He was a pillar in the CongrcKational church and one of the principal organizers of the 
Greenfield Total Abstinence society in IHOl). For twenty consecutive years he served as justice 
of the peace, was a member of assembly in 181.'), 1S-2T and 1831, and a presidential elector in 1820, 
voting for James Monroe. 

'•' In September, 1790, this church joined the convention of churches at Bennington, Vt., but in 
ITOr it united with the Albany presbytery. The first church was erected in 1793, and stood in the 



PROVIDENCE, 1783-1800, 121 

church of Greenfield Centre was organized by Samuel Bailey, Benja- 
min Close, Daniel W. Bailey, Mrs. Fanny Bailey, Daniel Wood, Ezra 
Weld and several others. Rev. Joseph Craw was the first minister. 
No house of worship was built until several years after the founding of 
the society. ' A society of Friends was established in town prior to 
1800. Their meeting house was located a short distance north of 
Scott's Corners. Elihu Anthony and Benjamin Angell were early 
preachers.' 

PROVIDENCE. 

While tradition says that two men named Seth Kellogg and Nathan- 
iel Wells became the first settlers of Providence after the Revolution, 
unfortunately nothing is now known of them. The first permanent 
settler as nearly as can be learned, was Jonathan Finch. He was one 
of the minutemen, residing in Dutchess county prior to and during the 
Revolution. At its close, either in 1783 or 1784, he removed to the 
western part of Providence, where he purchased a farm and spent the 
remainder of his life. He was a deeply religious man. Upon the or- 
ganization of the Baptist church he received a license to preach, was 
soon afterward ordained to the ministry, and for several years served 
as pastor of the young church. In the war of 1812 he served as a chap- 
lain. Dr. Henry C. Finch of Broadalbin, son of S. Rogers Finch and 
Matilda Shew Finch, is a great-grandson of Jonathan Finch. 

southern part of the town. In 1832 it was rebuilt on the opposite side o£ the road, near its orig- 
inal site. In 1855 it was newly roofed and painted and a new parsonage replaced that built in 
1831. In 1860 the church was repaired and somewhat enlarged. 

' The first church edifice was erected in 1816 and 1817. The society joined the Shattsbury as- 
sociation in 1793, and united with the Saratoga association in 1805. The pastors have been : Jo- 
seph Craw, Israel Craw, Isaac Brewster, Elisha Blackman, James N. Seaman, Benjamin .St. John, 
Samuel M. Plumb, Timothy Day, Henry C. Skinner, H. H. Haff, T. T. St. John, O. H. Capron, R. 
Hastings, G. Farr, Edwin Westcott, William Bowen, J. L. Barlow, C. C. Hart, F. S. Park, Jacob 
Timberman, E. Jewett, C. F. Blackman, Levi Wheeh^ck and Rodney D. Andrews. 

The Second Baptist church of Greenfield, known for many years as " the Daketown church," 
was constituted in 1794. It was located about a mile and a half northwest from Middle Grove, in 
the Dake neighborhood. Its pastors were; Abel Brown, John Lewis and Timothy Day. The 
church became extinct in 1832. 

The Third Baptist church of Greenfield was constituted in 1795, became a member of the 
Shaftsbury association in 1796 and of the Saratoga association in 1805. Among its pastors were 

Hadley, Jonathan Nichols, Timothy Day, Jacob St. John, T. T. St. John and S. Carr. The 

church assumed the title of the Second church upon the dissolution of the latter in 1822, gave up 
its distinct organization and united with the church at Greenfield Centre. 

2 About 1827 there was a division among this society, and those calling themselves the Hicks- 
ites separated from the Orthodox society and built a meeting-house a short distance east of 
Scott's Corners. The Orthodox society became extinct in 1863, and the Hicksites were dissolved 
soon after. 



133 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Thomas Shankland was the next permanent settler of whom anything 
definite is known. He located in 1785 or 1786 at Hagedorn's Mills, 
where he built the first saw mill in town. Soon afterward he erected 
a grist mill. He also kept a tavern, the first in Providence, as far as is 
known. About 1792 he sold his property to Peter Morey, who, about 
1806, sold it to Jonathan Hagedorn, from whom the place was named. 
Martin Sleezer located west of the centre of the town about 1784. 
David Barker and Samuel S. Barker removed to Providence from Dart- 
mouth, Mass., in 1796. The former opened a tavern near what has 
since has been known as Barkerville. He and his brother, Samuel S., 
built at that point a saw mill and grist mill, then a tannery and a shoe 
shop, and for several years conducted an extensive business. They 
were men of prominence in the community, and left numerous descend- 
ants. Jonah Rockwell, who settled in town about 1790, possibly earlier, 
was a son of Stephen Rockwell, who came to Milton from Dutchess 
county in 1784. He married Anna Temple, and had four sons and two 
daughters. Trustram Duel came from Dutchess county also in 1797 
and built the first blacksmith shop in town, near Hagedorn's Mills. He 
had seven children. Nathaniel Sowl, who for many years had followed 
the sea as a whaler, living at Dartmouth, Mass., came to Providence 
in 1787. William Clark, also from Dutchess county, settled near An- 
tioch Hill, a mile and a half north of York's Corners, in 1790. The late 
William V. Clark, for many years supervisor of the town, and Mrs. Martha 
A. I'uller of Saratoga Springs were his grandchildren, and Hon. Isaiah 
Fuller of Saratoga Springs, for many years warden of Clinton State 
prison at Dannemora, is a great-grandson. 

A grist mill was built at Fayville, in the northwestern corner of the 
town, in 1800, by Van Hoesen. 

The earliest churches in Providence were the Baptist church and the 
Society of Friends. The exact date of the organization of either is un- 
known. As nearly as can be gleaned from the records, however, the 
Baptist church was organized about 1790. The first roll of members in 
existence was that made in 179G. Jonathan Finch heads the list as 
elder, and he served the society as its first pastor.' The Friends built 
a log meeting-house near the centre of the town, where James Havi- 
land preached for many years. 

' Tlie first house of worship was a log buildinR erected about 17(13. It was rebuilt in 1807 
Again, in 1HJ7, a new edifice was erected at Hagedorn's MiUs. 



DAY, 1783-1800. 123 

DAY. 

It was not until the j-ear 1797 that the first permanent settlements 
in the town of Day occurred. This doubtless was due to the remote- 
ness of this locality from the centres of population. Davidjohuson, a 
native of New Hampshire, who saw seven years' service in the Ameri- 
can army during the Revolution, was the first inhabitant of whom any- 
thing definite can be learned. At the close of the war he went to 
Salisbury, Vt. , where he married Mary Joiner. In 1707 he started 
with his wife and seven children, intending to settle in the Genesee 
valley; but when he reached the central part of Day, in the valley of 
the Sacandaga, he could go no further with his covered sleigh, by rea- 
son of the rapidly melting snows. Consequently he bought a farm 
there and remained there one year. But his property was claimed by 
another man, and as he could not establish his title, he removed further 
east and bought three hundred acres just west of Conklingville, on the 
eastern boundary of the town. Here, in 1798, he built a log house, on 
the site of Kathan's old hotel, and remained until his death in 1839. 
Mr. Johnson had a family of two sons and six daughters. Of these his 
son John was the only one who remained in town. He became the 
owner of the old homestead, and served in the war of 1812. His wife 
was Fally, daughter of David Allen, who bore him thirteen children. 

Coincident with Johnson's settlement, or nearly so, was that of Jonas 
Bond and Phineas Austin, brothers-in law, who founded homes on the 
north side of the river, about a mile east of Day Centre. Nicholas 
Flansburgh came from Schenectady county in the spring of 1799 and 
located nearly opposite Day Centre, on the south bank of the river. 
The Grove family are also said to have settled here before 1800, but 
there is no knowledge of their movements. George Bradford came 
from Galway, Scotland, in the spring of 1800. Samuel Rogers located 
at Day Centre about the same time. One of his daughters married 
David Hines, a young man who had been captured by the Indians when 
a boy, and who adopted iheir style of dress and living. The latter for 
many years was quite a character irt town. 

There were no schools or churches in the town of Day until several 
years after the beginning of the nineteenth century. 



124 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

The Division of tlie Districts Comprised Within the Limits of the County and the 
Organization of the Early Towns — Erection of the County of Saratoga — The First 
Courts— First County. State and Federal Officials— Erection of the First Court House 
— The Northern Canal, Known as " Schuyler's Ditch" — The First Newspaper, One 
Hundred Years Ago, and the First Books Printed in the County — Other Events 
Transpiring Prior to the Year 1800. 

A.s the popitlation of Saratoga increased after the declaration of 
peace in 1783, a number of territorial changes were found necessary to 
accommodate the steadily growing community. Already, before the 
Revolution, nearly the entire territory now embraced within the limits 
of the county had been divided by the colonial government into dis- 
tricts. The first of these districts erected were Half Moon and Saragh- 
toga. Both were formed by the same law, March 24, 1772. 

The district of Half Moon consisted of the territory embraced in the 
present towns of Halfmoon, Waterford and Clifton Park. It remained 
a district, with its boundaries unchanged, until well along into the 
nineteenth century. 

The district of Saraghtoga, or, as it soon after was written, Sara- 
toga, embraced nearly all the remainder of the county south of the 
Sacandaga river, and the town of Easton, in Washington count}'. The 
district of Ball's Town was set off in 1775; the town of Easton, Wash- 
ington county, in 1789; apart of Greenfield in 1793, and the town of 
Northumberland in 1798; but at the close of the century the town of 
Saratoga, which was erected as such from the district of Saratoga 
March 7, 1788, embraced the present towns of Saratoga, Malta and 
Saratoga Springs. 

The district of Ball's Town, which soon afterward was written Balls- 
town, then Ballston, was formed from Saratoga as a district April 1, 
1775, and was organized as a town in 1788. Until 1792 the district, 
then the town, embraced the territory now known as the towns of Balls- 
ton, Milton, Galway and Charlton. March 7, 1792, the towns of Gal- 
way and Milton were erected; March 17,1792, the town of Charlton 
was formed, and March 12, 1793, a part of Greenfield was taken off 



ERECTION OF THE COUNTY. 135 

from Milton. The boundaries of Charlton were altered March 5, 1795. 

Stillwater is one of the original four towns of the county, and was 
organized March 7, 1788, on the day on which Halfmoon, ^Saratoga and 
Ballston were erected as towns. 

Greenfield was formed from the towns of .Saratoga and Milton March 
12, 1793. It then embraced a part of Hadley south of the Sacandaga 
river. Northumberland was formed from the town of Saratoga March 
16, 1798. It then embraced a portion of Hadley, and the towns of 
Moreau and Wilton, retaining this territory until after the close of the 
eighteenth century. Galvvay, erected March 7, 1793, originally em- 
braced Galway, Providence and Edinburgh. Providence, which then 
embraced Providence and Edinburgh, was formed February 5, 1796, 
retaining Edinburgh until 1801. The other towns in the county were 
not organized until the early part of the present century, and the work 
of township erection was not completed until 1828, when the final 
organization of Clifton Park, first known as Clifton, was effected. 

Several of the towns were erected before the county itself had been 
organized. Up to 1791 the territory now embraced within the confines 
of the county formed a part of Albany county, one of the original ten 
counties of the province of New York. February 17, 1791, the .State 
Legislature passed an act "for apportioning the representation in the 
Legislature, according to the rules prescribed in the Constitution, and 
for other purposes." According to this law, the towns of Eastcn and 
Cambridge were annexed to Washington county, the county of Rens- 
selaer was created, and the county of Saratoga was set off. The law 
also said: 

That all that part of the county of Albany, which is bounded easterly by Hudson's 
river and the counties of Washington and Rens.selaer, southerly by the most north- 
erly sprout of that river and the town of Schenectady, westerly by the county of 
Montgomery, and northerly by the county of Washington, shall be an separate and 
distinct county, and be called and known by the name of Saratoga. And the bounds 
of the several towns in the said respective counties adjacent to and limited by the 
Hudson's river and Mohawk river, are hereby extended to and limited by the bounds 
of the said respective counties herein described, provided nevertheless that the rights 
and privileges heretofore granted to the corporation of the city of Albany by charter 
shall not be in any wise affected or abridged. And the freeholders and inhabitants 
of the said several counties, shall have and enjoy within the same respectively, all 
and every the same rights, powers and privileges as the freeholders and inhabitants 
of any other counties in this State and by law entitled to have and enjoy. 

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid. That there shall be held in 
and for each of the said counties of Rensselaer and Saratoga respectively, a court of 



120 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

common pleas and a court of general sessions of the peace, at such suitable and con- 
venient place within each of the same counties respectively, as such judges of the 
court of common pleas and such justices of the peace as shall be appointed for each 
of the same counties respectively, or a majority of them, shall respectively appoint; 
And that there shall be two terms of the same courts in each of the same counties 
respectively in the same year. 

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid. That it shall and may be law- 
ful to and for all courts and officers in the said counties of Rensselaer and Saratoga 
respectively, in all cases civil and criminal, to confine their prisoners in the gaol of 
the county of Albany, until gaols shall be provided in the same counties respect- 
ively. . . . 

And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid. That this State shall be, 
and is hereby divided into four great districts. The southern district to comprehend 
the city and county of New York, and the counties of Suffolk, Queens, Kings, Rich- 
mond and Westchester; the middle district to comprehend the counties of Dutchess, 
Ulster and Orange ; the western district to comprehend the city and county of Al- 
bany, and the counties of Saratoga, Montgomery and Ontario; and the eastern dis- 
trict to comprehend the counties of Columbia, Rensselaer, Washington and Clinton. 
And that the number of senators to be chosen in the said districts shall be as fol- 
lows; ... in the western district five. . . . And Stephen Van Rensselaer, 
Peter Schuyler, Volkert P. Douw, Leonard Gansevoort and Jellis Fonda, shall be 
considered as senators from the said western district, and as they respectively go 
out of office, senators shall be chosen in the said western district in their places re- 
spectively. . . . 

In ptirsuance of this law erecting- Saratoga county, Governor Clinton 
appointed John Thompson of Stillwater to be first jtidge; General 
James Gordon and Beriah Palmer of Ballston, Jacobus Van Schoon- 
hoven of Halfmoon, and Sidney Berry of Saratoga to be judges; the 
latter also to be surrogate; Jacob Fort, jr., of Halfmoon to be sheriff, 
and Dirck Swart of Stillwater to be county clerk. Thus was the organ- 
ization of the coimty of Saratoga perfected. 

May 10, 1791, the first session of the Court of Common Pleas for the 
new county was held at the residence of Samuel Clark in the town of 
Stillwater, now the town of Malta. Judge Thompson presided, with 
the four judges named in the foregoing, and with Epenetus White, John 
Va^n£^m (or Van Arnam) and Eliphalet J^ellog^g acting as associate 
justices of sessions. At the same time and place the first Court of 
Sessions was organized. It was presided over by Judge Jaines Gordon, 
and John Varnam, Epenetus White, Eliphalet Kellogg, Richard Davis, 
jr., Douw J. Fonda, Elias Paliner, Nathanien5ouglas, John Ball and 
John Bradstreet, justices of the peace. The grand jury sworn in on 
that occasion consisted of Richard Davis, jr., foreman; Joshua Taylor, 
John Donald, Henry Davis, Hezekiah Ketchum, Seth C. Baldwin, Ezra 



FIRST COUNTY BUILDINGS. 127 

Hallibart, John Wood, Samuel Wood, Edj^ Baker, Elisha Andrews, 
Gideon Moore, Abraham Livingston and John Bleecker. July 7 of the 
same year the first Circuit Court and Court of Oyer and Terminer was 
organized at the house of Jeremiah Rogers in Half moon, now Clifton 
Park. Chief Justice Robert Yates presided. June 4, 1792, the second 
term was held in the church at Stillwater. July 9, 1793, the third terra 
was held in the Presbyterian church at Ballston. 

With the organization of the courts and the beginning of official rec- 
ords of Saratoga county, the need for a public building became appar- 
ent. But it was not until the county was five years old that the first 
county building was completed. The first step taken toward its erec- 
tion was the appointment by the Legislature, March 36, 1794, of John 
Bradstreet Schuyler, Richard Davis, jr., James Emmott, John Ball 
and John McClelland, as commissioners for locating the county seat 
and building the court house and jail. The inhabitants of Ballston 
Centre and Milton, the two most thriving centres of population in the 
county besides Waterford, set up rival claims, and the contest for desig- 
nation as the site for the proposed buildings was great. Finally the 
commissioners accepted the offer of Edward A. Watrous of Ballston, 
who proposed to give the county a fine site on his farm, so long as the 
same should contain the court house and jail. Ballston was then de- 
clared to be the county seat, and the site of the new building, became 
known as Court House Hill, an appellation which it has borne to this 
day. The commissioners made a contract with Luther Leet for the 
construction of the building. It was made of wood, was fifty feet 
square and two stories in height, with a one-story wing in the rear, and 
cost $6,750. It was first used by the county in May, 179G, when the 
courts of Common Pleas and General Sessions met therein. In 1799 a 
Circuit Court and Court of Oyer and Terminer was held there. Judge 
John Lansing presiding.' 

In the meantime the first board of supervisors of Saratoga had been 
organized. This body met in Stillwater June 2, 1791. As there were 
at that time but four towns in the county, and each town was entitled 
to but one representative in the county legislature, the board consisted 
of these supervisors: Beriah Palmer, from Ballston; Elias Palmer, 

1 This building was destroyed by fire March 2.5, 1816. when Ballston Spa was selected as the 
site for the new county buildings. In the old building at Court House Hill, courts were held by 
Judges Kent, Radclitf, Morgan Lewis, Smith Thoinpson, Ambrose Spencer, William W. Van Ness 
and Jonas Piatt. 



128 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Stillwater; John B. Schuyler, Saratoga; and Benjamin Rosekrans, 
Half moon. 

Pursuant to the first constitution, Samuel Clark of Stillwater was 
chosen as the first presidential elector from Saratoga county, in 1792, 
casting his ballot for George Washington. In 1800 Robert Ellis was 
chosen and cast his vote for Thomas Jefferson. The records do not 
give the name of any presidential elector from this county in 1796. At 
the general election in 1791 General James Gordon was elected a repre- 
sentative in Congress, and was reelected in 1793, serving two terms. 
John Thompson, of Stillwater, first judge of the Court of Common 
Pleas, was elected in 1799, and served one term. 

One of the earliest projected internal improvements calculated to 
enhance the commercial importance of Saratoga county was the plan 
for a canal extending north and south through the eastern part of the 
county, parallel with and in the channel of the Hudson river. For 
many years such a water highway had been under consideration. As 
early as 1791 Governor George Clinton, in a speech before the State 
Legislature, advocated canals extending from Albany northward from 
the mouth of the Mohawk through the valley of that river. Again, 
during the legislative session of 1795, he recommended the adoption 
of some plan for inland navigation. Before this, February 7, 1792, 
(ieneral Williams of Salem, member of the Legislature from Wash- 
ington county, acting doubtless upon the suggestion of the gover- 
nor, had endeavored to secure the passage of a bill providing " for 
constructing and opening a canal and lock navigation in northern and 
western parts of the State," but nothing came of his efforts. But in 
1795 two companies were organized — one for northern and one for 
western improvement. The former was incorporated as " The North- 
ern Inland Lock Navigation Company," whose avowed object was the 
construction of a canal with locks from the mouths of the Mohawk 
northward along the west bank of the Hudson around the rapids in the 
vicinity of Mechanicville and Stillwater. In the summer of that year 
surveys for the proposed work were begun, and before the year 1800 a 
considerable portion of the actual work had been accomplished. But 
the enterprise failed because of lack of funds, and the canal was 
abandoned. General PhiHp Schuyler was at the head of this company, 
and the ruins of the work were long known as " Schuyler's Ditch." 
One of the principal surveyors in the employ of the company was Sir 
Marc Isambard Brunei, who constructed the great Thames river tun- 



THE FIRST NEWSPAPER. 129 

nel in London in 1835-1843. Though this enterprise met with disas- 
ter and caused the financial ruin of several men, it finally led to the 
building of the Erie and Champlain canals, which have done so much 
to bring prosperity to New York State, and to Saratoga county. 

Earl}' in its career, the inhabitants of the county enjoyed the advan- 
tages of the dissemination of news and the interchange of ideas of 
matters of import through the medium of a newspaper. On June 1-1, 
1798, just one hundred years ago, the first newspaper ever published 
in the county made its appearance. It was printed by Increase and 
William Child at Court House Hill, in the town of Ballston, and was 
called the Saratoga Register or Farmers' Journal. The office of pub- 
lication was "over the store of Jlessrs. Robert Leonard & Co., nearly 
opposite the Court House," as appears from the title page of the first- 
number of this paper.' The Journal, as it was commonly known, sup- 
ported the administration of President John Adams, then the head of 
the Federal party. 

Soon after the establishment of this newspaper the publishers of the 
Journal brought out the first book ever printed in this county. It bore 
this formidable title: 

"A Plain Account of the Ordinance of Baptism; in which all the texts in the New 
Testament relating to it are proved, and the whole Doctrine concerning it drawn 
from them alone. In a Course of Letters to the Right Rev. Dr. Benjamin Hoadley, 
late Lord Bishop of Winchester; another of the ' Plain Account of the Lord's Sup- 
per;' ye shall not add unto the word which I have commanded you, neither shall you 
diminish from it. First Ballston Edition. London. Printed: Ballston. Re- 
Printed by I. & W. Child. Sold at their Printing Office, nearly opposite the Court 
House. 1798." 

Two years later the firm dissolved and William Child assumed sole 
management of the business. In that year he printed a book of two 
hundred and twenty two pages entitled : "A Plea for the Non-Con- 
formists," by Thomas Delaune. The preface was written by Rev. 
Elias Lee, then pastor of the Baptist church at Ballston Spa. The 
book was sold by subscription before printing, and at the end of the 
volume appeared the names of the subscribers, over one thousand in 
number. 

The first census of Saratoga county, which includes the town of 
Easton, excludes portions of Hadley, Day and Edinburgh, and other- 

^ This paper has undergone many changes, until it is now known as the Ballston Journal, 
published at Ballston Spa by C. H. Grose. 



130 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

wise may be incomplete, was taken in 1790, before the organization of 
the county. It gives a total population of 17,077, divided among the 
four districts as follows: Ballston, 7,833; Halfmoon, 3,602; Saratoga, 
3,071 ; Stillwater, 3,071. The census of 1800 shows a total population 
of 24,483, divided among the various towns as then established as 
follows: Ballston, 2,099; Charlton, 1,746; Galway, 2,310; Greenfield, 
3,073; Halfmoon, 3,851; Milton, 2,146; Northumberland, 2,007; Provi- 
dence, 1,888; Saratoga, 2,491; Stillwater, 2,872. 

Some of the additional events of importance occurring in Saratoga 
county during the eighteenth century may be briefly summarized as 
follows: The discovery of the mineral springs of Saratoga county, 
which is described at length in another chapter; the founding of 
numerous schools and religious societies and the erection of their 
houses of worship, which is also described elsewhere in this volume; 
the development of the many fine water powers in the county and the 
erection of scores of saw mills, grist mills, tanneries and other indus- 
trial concerns; the improvement of highways and the establishment of 
stage lines. 

Many other events of interest doubtless occurred within the limits of 
Saratoga county during the closing years of the eighteenth century, 
but historians in those days were few, and the gleaner of to-day is com- 
pelled to abide almost entirely by the existing records, official and pri- 
vate. Consequently but little else of importance concerning the pio- 
neers of Saratoga county, excepting the finer details of some of the 
transactions herein noted, probably will ever be known. 



FROM 1800-1831. 131 



CHAPTER IX. 

FROM 1800 to 1831. 

History of the County from the Beginning of the Nineteenth Century to the Con- 
struction of the First Steam Railroad within its Borders — Wonderful Development 
of Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa — Gideon Putnam and His Beneficent Labors 
— Early Hotels at the Springs — Some of the More Important Manufactures — Water 
Power of the Kayaderosseras — Churches Established in the Countv During this 
Period — History of the Erie and Chaniplain Canals — Semi-Centennial Celebrations 
of 1826 — County Medical Society and County Bible Society^Men who Served as 
Officers in the Early Militia. 

The history of Saratoga county during the period beginning with the 
opening of the present century and ending with the year 1831, when 
the State Legislature granted a charter to the first railroad company 
organized to construct a steam railroad which was to traverse the most 
populous portion of the county, is little else than a story of the peace- 
ful cultivation of the farming lands, of the development of its numer- 
ous fine water powers, of the establishment at many points of man- 
ufacturing industries which form such a potent factor in the prosperity 
of the county, of the development of the famous mineral springs at 
Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa and the erection of commodious 
and in some cases magnificent hotels in those villages, of the founding 
of churches and schools, of the improvement to the channels of com- 
merce by the erection of bridges and the building of turnpikes, of po- 
litical and territorial changes within the county — but greatest of all, of 
the building of the two great highways of commerce, the Erie and 
Champlain canals. 

In the preceding chapters we have endeavored to give an accurate 
idea of the early settlement of the county, the establishment of some 
of the early industries and of the schools and religious societies which 
existed during the eighteenth century. In the same manner we shall 
now endeavor to straighten out the records of the doings of the inhab- 
itants of the county during the first third of the present century and 
show what they accomplished along the various lines of commerce and 
industry, of educational and spiritual advancement, in politics, in peace 



133 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and in war, until the arrival of the time when the entire commercial 
and industrial system of the community, and in fact the entire well- 
being of the community, were revolutionized by the introduction of 
steam power as a means of transportation. 

Perhaps the most important commercial and industrial growth in any 
community in the county during the early years of the century occurred 
at Ballston vSpa and other points near by in the town of Milton. The 
early development at this point was due to the splendid water power 
on the Kayaderosseras, which was harnessed by man several years be- 
fore ISOO. The place also became known as a desirable one for resi- 
dence, not only on account of the water power furnished by the Kaya- 
derosseras, but on account of the mineral springs in the village and the 
court house, which was located at a convenient distance from the vil- 
lage. Several small mills and manufactories were located in and near 
the village very early in the century. The town of Milton, in which 
the principal part of the village lies, gained its name from this fact. 
For many years the locality about the Kayaderosseras in the southeast- 
ern quarter of the present town was known as Mill-town, and this name 
most naturally became Milton. It deserved the name, for there were 
dozens of mills of various kinds in the locality, as well as tanneries and 
shoe shops. Many of these were built during the preceding century 
and reference has been made to them in another chapter. The facili- 
ties of most of these mills were increased from time to time and new 
mills were erected as business warranted. 

One of the most important of the early mills built on the banks of 
the Kayaderosseras in the village of Ballston Spa was a cotton mill 
erected in 1812 by Nicholas Low, Amos Olcott and others. But this 
industry was destined to meet an untimely end. The factory was run- 
ning with a full complement of hands one day about a month after it 
had been started, when the great " walking-beam " of the old-fashioned 
engine suddenly broke, almost completely wrecking the mill. So great 
was the damage done that the proprietors decided that they could not 
reconstruct the plant, and the concern was abandoned, throwing sev- 
eral persons out of employment. This disaster was considered quite a 
set back to Ballston Spa, but the enterprising inhabitants were un- 
daunted and in a short time had established other enterprises in its 
place, though the building itself remained unoccupied by any manufac- 
turing plant for nearly forty years. Part of the machinery was brought 
from Europe at great expense, but this and the labor of months was 
destroyed in one moment. 



BALLSTON SPA, 1800-1831. 133 

Early in the century Ballston Spa was in its glory as a summer re- 
sort, its mineral springs having gained a world-wide reputation on 
account of their wonderful medicinal properties. The Sans Souci hotel, 
which stood on the north side of Front street where the Sans Souci 
opera house block now stands, was the most noted hotel at the Spa. In 
its rear was the Sans Souci spring. Some of the most noted men of 
the country, as well as distinguished men from abroad, were entertained 
at various times beneath its hospitable roof and drank of its health 
giving waters. Andrew Berger was one of its proprietors. The Sans 
Souci was for many years open in the summer season only. The Balls- 
ton Spa house, which stood on the west side of Milton avenue, at the 
corner of Washington street, where the office of the Ballston Spa Daily 
News is now located, was a winter hotel. It was burned in 1892. It 
was run in connection with the Sans Souci. The village was also well 
supplied with boarding houses. 

Ballston Spa's first school was established about the year 1800. It 
was maintained for several years in the building used by the First Bap- 
tist society as a meeting-house. This building stood on Ballston avenue, 
in the eastern section of the site of the village cemetery. Early in the 
century — just when the removal occurred cannot be learned — the school 
house was abandoned and "the academy," a large, two-story structure, 
was erected on what is now Science street. This house probably stood 
on the ground now occupied by the railroad, on the east side of Science 
street. This school was not actually an academy, but simply a large 
school of two grades.' There were also e.Kcellent private schools in the 

' This building was abandoned by the school about 1836, removed to the corner of Charlton 
street and Ballston avenue, and used by the Methodist congregation as a meeting-house. The 
latter finally sold it to the Catholic congregation. After the latter had used it as a house of 
worship for a few years, they sold it to private parties, who fitted it up as a dwelling. Two dis- 
trict school houses were built in 1836. One was located on Malta avenue, and the other on West 
High street, between Charlton street and Ballston avenue. These schools were succeeded by 
the Ballston Spa Union school system, which was organized April 17, 1870, by the election of the 
following board of education: President, Hiro Jones; clerk, Neil Gilmour; treasurer, John J. Lee; 
trustees, E. H. Chapman, Benjamin F. Baker, C. M. McClew, E. Parkinson and J. B. Cheydleur. 
For three years the schools were maintained in the old buildings and elsewhere. In 1873 and 
1874 the brick high school building on Bath street was erected at a cost of about $2;3,.'il)0, and 
the school was opened therein September 14, 1874, by Thomas C. Bunyan, prmcipal. It was 
originally arranged in three grades, but the growth of the village has caused a great increase 
in the school, and branches have been established several years in convenient places in the vil- 
lage. Arrangements are now (1898) being made for the erection of a still more commodious 
building. Thomas C. Bunyan remained in charge of the Union Free school as principal until 
1892, when he resigned and removed to Berthoud, Col., and established the bank of Berthoud. 
He was succeeded as principal by H. H. Southwick, who resigned in 1897 to accept a professor- 
ship in the State Normal School at Plattsburgh, N. Y. Leland L. Landers became principal in 
1S97, but resigned in 1898, when A. A. Lavery was chosen principal. During the incumbency of 



134 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

village in these days. One of these was under the management of 
Rev. Deodatus Babcock. From 1822 to 1835 a ladies' seminary was 
located at High street. It subsequently was changed to a boys' school, 
and shortly afterward was abandoned. 

To Gideon Putnam belongs the credit for starting the boom which 
made vSaratoga Springs a formidable rival of the famous Ballston Spa, 
a movement which eventually gave to the former place the prestige 
and glory which originally accompanied the name of the latter. It was 
his capital which laid the foundations of the famed Grand Union hotel, 
and gave that village a name which it has ever since borne — the prince 
of watering places in America, and the peer of any in the world. 

Gideon Putnam came to Saratoga Springs in 1789. He was a man 
of considerable wealth and experience in the world, and he foresaw the 
destiny of his new home, in part at least. Mr. Putnam was a son-in- 
law of Benjamin Risley, who came from Hartford, Conn. Mr. Risley's 
other son-in-law, who came with him, was Dr. Clement Blakesley. All 
began making investments in real estate soon after coming to Saratoga 
Springs. Mr. Putnam came of good stock, being of the same family 
as General Israel Putnam of Revolutionary fame. We have sufficient 
evidence of the energy and determination which formed so great a 
part of his character, as well as of his keen foresight. Though the 
country surrounding Congress Spring was little better than a wilder- 
ness in 1802, he seemed to have become imbued, and he alone, 
with the knowledge that it was destined to become in time a popular 
resort. Consequently, in that year, after clearing off the heavy timber 
on his land, he began the erection of the famous Grand Union hotel. 
This was the first commodious hotel erected at the Springs for the 
accommodation of visitors, and its erection marked the dawn of a new 
era for that community. 

The building was of wood, three stories in height. On the day that 
the frame was raised, people gathered from the surrounding country 
for miles around to behold what was popularly called " Putnam's 
Folly." But they were doomed to disappointment, for immediately 
after the erection of this hotel, people began to fliock to the springs in 
large numbers, and quickly purchased the lots which Mr. Putnam had 
laid out along the broad street which he had had surveyed This 

Principal Southwick the school was placed under the direction of the Regents of the University 
of the state of New York. The present members of the board of education are: President, Her- 
bert C. Westcot; clerk, Joseph Shaelfer; trustees, Frederick J. Wheeler, David Frisbie, James 
W. Verbeck, Tracy W. Nichols, Dr. Eben S. Lawrence. 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1800-1831. 135 

street, then called Broad street, is now Broadway. Near it were 
located Congress, Columbian and Hamilton springs, and Mr. Putnam 
laid out the new village so these springs would be in public highways 
branching off from Broad street, and thereby remain public property. 
But after his death these streets, excepting Broad street, were narrowed 
down, bringing all these springs within private property. Thus it will 
be seen that Gideon Putnam, though not the pioneer, was in realitj' 
the founder of the village of Saratoga »Springs.' 

The wisdom of Gideon Putnam in erecting the Grand Union soon be- 
came apparent. Year by year the number of visitors to the springs in- 
creased, and by 1809 so great was the demand for accommodations that 
a rival hotel, called the Columbian, was erected on the site now occu- 
pied by the Ainsworth block. This hotel, which for many years was 
under the management of Jotham Holmes, was destroyed by fire many 
years ago. 

Nine years after he had built the Grand Union, Gideon Putnam be- 
gan, in 1811, the erection of another commodious hotel, which he called 
Congress Hall. When its timbers were raised, one of them fell, killing 
Barney Souler and so injured i\lr. Putnam that he died a few months 
later. -His death resulted, doubtless, in a considerable change in the 
original plans for the operation of the hotel, for soon after its com- 
pletion it was used as a lodging house in connection with the Grand 
Union, which stood opposite. In 1815 it was sold to Guert Van Schoon- 
hoven, and under his ownership it became the most fashionable resort 
at the springs. 

Still another large hotel was erected in 1819, by which time the vil- 
lage had become quite populous. This was the Pavilion hotel, which 
was built by Judge Walton on the site now occupied by the town hall.' 
Nathan Lewis was its first proprietor. Succeeding him were Allen 
Murphy, John Ford, Asher Smith Taylor, John C. Dillon, John Cross, 
and Daniel McLaren. This hotel was one of the most elegant in the 
village. 

' Gideon Putnam was born in Sutton, Mass., in 1764, the son of Rufus and Mary Putnam. He 
married Doanda Risley, daughter of Benjamin Risley of Hartford Conn. Soon after he re- 
moved to Middlebury, Vt., where he built a cabin on the site now occupied by the Middlebury 
college buildings. Subsequently he removed to Rutland, Vt., then to Bemus Flats, and finally 
to Saratoga Springs. His first purchase of land there was made in 1791, when he bought three 
hundred acres ftom Dirck Lefferts. After building the Grand Union and laying out the village 
plots, in 1805, he retubed the Washington, Columbian and Hamilton Springs in 18110. He began 
the erection of Congress Hall in 1811. He died December 1, 1812, aged forty-nine years. The 
children of Gideon and Doanda Putnam were Benjamin, Lewis, Rockwell, Washington, Loren, 
Mrs. Betsey Taylor, Mrs. .\urelia Clement, Mrs. Nancy Andrews and Mrs. Phila Kellogg. 

' This hotel was burned in 1^0. 





//^/^/M 





SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1800-1831. 137 

Spa voluntarily conducted services. October 4, 1830, the congregation 
worshiping here formally organized Bethesda Protestant Episcopal 
church, Rev. Edward Davis at that time being the missionary and 
rector in charge of that station. At this meeting Henry Walton and 
Wallace Crawford were elected wardens, and Hon. John H. Steele, Ur. 
John Clarke, Daniel D. Benedict, Esek Cowen, Rockwell Putnam, Joel 
Clement, Jonathan Williams and Daniel Wait vestr3mien. Rev. Ed- 
ward Davis continued to serve the church, but in the capacity of mis- 
sionary, being assisted b}' Rev. Mr. Babcock.' 

As early as 1813 the inhabitants of Saratoga Springs were wide 
awake to the necessity of proper school accommodations for the young. 
On March 12 of that year a meeting of citizens was held at the house 
of Moses Stickney for the purpose of devising means for the construc- 
tion of the needed school house. It was decided to erect a suitable 
building on land belonging to Gideon Putnam on the north side of 
Washington street; said building to be thirty by twenty-six feet. It 
was built by Jesse Morgan, at a cost of $400, under the direction of 
Gideon Putnam, Miles Beach and Nathan Lewis. The house was paid 
for by issuing shares of five dollars each, which appear to have been 
quickly subscribed. The general school system of the State was in- 
augurated in 1813, and the new school became the regular legal school 
for the newly organized District 15. May 22, 1813, Nathan Lewis, 
Miles Beach and Jotham Holmes were chosen the first trustees of the 
new district, and Daniel D. Benedict was elected secretary and col- 
lector. At the meeting held November 12, 1818, the district was 
divided into two districts.' November 24, 1831, it was resolved to 

• The first regular rector was Rev. William F. Waiker, who had been rector of Christ church 
in Troy, N. Y. The first church edifice was built in ]K4;2-].S44, and stood on the south side of Wash- 
ington street, on a lot purchased of Rockwell Putnam. This was enlarged and improved in 1859. 
Rev. Mr. Walker, the first regular rector, was succeeded .September 2, 1843, by Rev. Samuel Han- 
son Cox. The successive rectors since that year have been : Rev, John Henry Hobart, March 
28, 1843, to June 9, 184(5; Rev. Philip E. Milledoler, M. D., June 9, 1846, to June 19, 1850 ; Rev. B. H. 
Whicher, supplied for Dr. Milledoler, 1849-1850, by reason of the illness of the latter; Rev. .S. F. 
Wiley, Srptember l;i, l.S5^l, to November. 18.53; Rev. Dr. Deodatus Babcock, supply during part of 
1852-1853 ; Rev. John S. Kidney, February 23, 1853, to April, 1858 ; Rev. Robert C. Rogers, May ID, 
18.58, to July, 1861 ; Rev. Edmund Rowland Deacon, July .5, 1801, to October, 1863 ; Rev. Francis C. 
Wainwright, November 12. 1.S63, to May, 1865; Rev. G. C. V. Eastman, officiating clergyman from 
May, 186.5, to April, 1866; Rev. John B. Gibson, April 20, 1866, to 1869; Rev. Dr. Norman W. Camp, 
1869 to 18T3; Rev. Joseph Carey, D. D., 1873 to the present time. 

'^ The existing public school system in Saratoga .Springs was organized in pursuance of a 
special act of the Legislature passed April 12. 1867, consolidating all school districts in the village 
into the Union Free school district of Saratoga Springs. The law named Oliver L. Barbour, 
Augustus Bockes and John Shipman as trustees of the first class; Joseph A. Shoudy, Thomas 
Flanigan and Aaron Hill as trustees of the second class, and John Woodbridge, John Palmer and 



laS OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

move the school house "to R. Putnam's lot next north of James Cald- 
well's lot, No. Gl." 

A Masonic lodge existed at Saratoga Springs as early as 1821. Rising 
Sun lodge had been organized several years before in that part of the 
town of Northumberland which subsequently became the town of Wil- 
ton. The first known records of the lodge bear date of October 4, 1808, 
when Nicholas Angle was worshipful master, Daniel Wicks was senior 
warden and Jonas King was junior warden. The lodge then probably 
was working under a dispensation, as the charter now in the possession 
of Rising Sun lodge is dated September 6, 1809, when Nicholas Angle 
was still worshipful master, Stephen King senior warden, and Jared 
Palmer junior warden. In 1821 it was decided to remove the lodge to 

Charles S. Lester as trustees of the third class. This, the first board of education, was organ- 
ized April 16, 18G7, by the election of Charles S. Lester as president. The Union School employs 
fifty-si.^ teachers and occupies ten different buildings. The High school building was erected in 
188.5. There are four comparatively new buildings— No. 3, built in 1890; No. 1, built in 1891; No. 7, 
built in 1893, and the annex to the High school, built in 1894. The presidents of the board of edu- 
cation since its organization have been: 

Charles S. Lester April IG, 1867 to October 4, 1869 

James L. Cramer October 6, 1869 to October 28, 1869 

Hiram A. Wilson October 38, 1869 to September 21, 1871 

Lewis E. Whiting September 81, 1871 to October 24, 1872 

Paoli Durkee October 84, 1873 to October 27, 1873 

George F. White November 10, 1873 to October 28, 1874 

John B. Hulbert October 28, 1874 to October 36, 187.5 

Lemuel B. Pike November 8, 1875 to August 13, 1877 

Charles H. Tefft, jr August 13, 1877 to October 26, 1877 

John Shipman October 86, 1877 to October 82, 1878 

Isaac Y. Ouderkirk November 9, 1878 to October 37, 1879 

John Foley November 3, 1879 to October 84, 1883 

Levi S. Packard October 31, 1882 to November 6, 1888 

Bostwick Hawley November 6, 1888 to October -M, 1883 

Charles F. Fish October 34, 1883 to October 86, 1887 

William R. Waterbury October 26, 1887 to October 24, 1888 

Thomas Douglass October 34, 1888 to October 83, 1889 

John Shipman, jr October 23, 1889 to October 29, 1890 

Charles M. Davison October 39, 1890 to October 29, 1891 

Charles O. Van Dorn October 29, 1891 to October 29, 1892 

William McNamara October 89, 1893 to October 29, 1893 

Ceorge M. Crippen October 39 1893 to October 34, 1894 

A. de R. McNair October 34, 1894 to October 83, 1895 

C. B. Thomas October 3.3, 1895 to October 38, 1890 

D. J. Tynan October 88, 1896 to October 87, 1897 

E. D. Starbuck October 27, 1897 to 

The superintendents of schools and secretaries have been ; 

James N. Crocker August 1, 1807 to February 1, 1869 

David L. Rouse February 13, 1869 to .September 6, 1869 

Levi S. Packard September 6, 1869 to August 31, 1882 

(ieorge T. Church September 1, 1.882 to August 1.5, 18*5 

Edward N. Jones August 1.5, 1885 to August 31, 1893 

Thomas R. Kneil September 1, 1893 



SARATOGA SPRINGS. 1800-1831. 139 

Saratoga (springs, but the Grand lodge did not approve of the removal 
until June 5, 1824:. Before this, however, as early as 1823, lodge meet- 
ings had been held in the old Congress Hall, then known as Drake's 
building. Subsequently meetings were held in the Columbian hotel, 
corner of Broadway and Lake avenue, and elsewhere. 

The earliest cemetery in the vicinity of Saratoga Springs, as far as 
known, was the old Sadler burying ground, which stood on the hill in 
the northeast part of the village. Interments were made here as early 
as 1785 probably, as a stone inscribed with that date stood in the cem- 
etery before its destruction. In 1810 Gideon Putnam gave to the 
village a tract of land in the heart of the village, which was used as a 
cemetery for many years. Dr. John Clarke, Nathan Lewis and his 
family, and several other prominent persons of the olden time were 
interred there. 

This village was plentifully supplied with stores in the early days, 
with here and there a small manufactory or mill. In 1812 John and 
Ziba Taylor had a well stocked store, which had been in existence several 

years, and Gleason had a blacksmith shop. The year following, 

or a little later, Palmer it Waterbury started a bakery. About that 
time Beach & Farlin opened another grocery store. Hendrick & Knowl- 
ton began business as merchants in 1815, Nathan Lewis in 1816, Ash- 
bel and Ferdinand Andrews in 1818, Robert McDonald in 1819 or 1820, 
and Joseph Westcot in 1820. McDonald soon afterward abandoned the 
grocery business to start a hardware stoi'e. Mr. Langworthy also had 
a hardware store. Asa Wright and Mr. Reynolds were also early mer- 
chants. John Swain had a lime kiln near the Empire spring. 

The SarSTUgylToirnty Bible Society was organized August 24, 1815, 
nearly a year before the organization of the American Bible Society. 
Its first ofificers were; President, Rev. Samuel Blatchford, D. D. ; vice- 
presidents, Rev. Dirck C. Lansing, Rev. James Mairs; corresponding 
secretary. Rev. Reuben Sears; treasurer, Elisha Powell. 

An early libel suit in Saratoga Springs is thus referred to in the 
Ballston Spa Gazette of January 7, 1823. The item was printed among 
the advertisements upside down: 

Davison's Confession. — Some time in the month of January, 1821, Mr, Davison, 
editor of the Saratoga Sentinel, published a gross libel on Samuel M. Hopkins, Esq. 
of the Western District, and although he was furnished with the evidence that what 
he had published was a wilful falsehood, he had not th'e candor to retract it, until 
COMPELLED to do SO, by a prosecution in the Supreme Court — when Mr. Davison 



140 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

"gladly" compromised the suit, by signing a humble " confession," thereby admit- 
ting what he had published was a tie. 

While the village of Saratoga Springs was prospering as a summer 
resort, the neighboring village of Ballston Spa was developing rapidly 
along the same lines; but it was also taking a prominent and substan- 
tial position as a commercial and industrial centre as well. By the end 
of the period of which we are now writing, when the first steam rail- 
road to Ballston Spa was opened for traffic, the latter village had be- 
come one of the most thriving communities, considering its population, 
in New York State; while Saratoga Springs was glorying in its world- 
wide reputation as the greatest of all American summer resorts — and 
with prospects of a future even a thousand times more brilliant than 
its past ! 

Little remains to be said regarding the progress of the town of vSara- 
toga Springs during this period. The village seemed to attract nearly 
everything and everybody. Outside the village, the town pursued the 
the even tenor of its way. The development of the farming lands was 
pushed, school houses were erected, and various business interests were 
established; but the latter were so closely identified with those of the 
village that it is difficult to separate the two. 

One of the most important events occurring in the southern part of 
the county in the early part of the century was the construction of the 
bridge across the Hudson river at Waterford, connecting Waterford 
and Lansingburgh, in 1804." When the bridge was constructed it was 
deemed a marvel of engineering skill. How the public looked upon 
the structure at that time is manifested by the elaborate character of 
the exercises which attended its opening. The Lansingburgh Gazette, 
in its issue of December 4, 1804, said: 

Union bridge, lately erected over the Hudson, between this village and Water- 
ford, was yesterday opened for passengers. The particulars of the celebration of 
this event will be given in our next paper. 

The next issue of the paper, December 11, 1804, devoted more than 
a column to a description of the event. Among the interesting clauses it 
contained were these : 

This handsome structure, which promises to be of durable and important public 
utility, was commenced early the present season, and is now so far completed as to be 
adjudged by the proper authority fit for the uses of travelers. The work was exe- 
cuted under the direction of Theodore Burr, principal architect; by James McElroy, 

' This is said to be the oldest wooden bridge in the United States. 



WATERFORD, 1800-1831. 141 

head mason, and Samuel Shelly, master carpenter, and unites a degree of strength 
and elegance which reflects the highest credit on these gentlemen. 

The day was a holiday in both Waterford and Lansingburgh. A 
" very numerous procession " was formed at noon at Johnson & Jud- 
son's hotel in Lansingburgh, marched to the bridge, and thence across 
into Waterford, " under the discharge of seventeen cannon," where a 
dinner had been provided at Gerardus Van Schoonhoven's hotel at the 
expense of the stockholders of the bridge. Among the prominent per- 
sons in attendance were Governor Morgan Lewis, Thomas Tillotson, 
secretary of state; Elisha Jenkins, state comptroller; Simeon Dewitt, 
the surveyor-general, " and a large number of the respectable gentle- 
men from Albany and adjacent villages," who " partook in much har- 
mony and conviviality. " The bridge was rebuilt in 1812-1814, at an 
expense of $30,000." 

The village of Waterford was extensive enough in 1801 to support a 
newspaper, the second published in Saratoga county. It was called the 
Waterford Gazette, and was started either in 1800 or 1801 by Horace L. 
Wadsworth. It was continned until after the close of the war of 1812- 
14. After a lapse of several years another newspaper, the Waterford 
Rei)orter, was started in 1822 by William L. Fish. This paper had a 
short career. The third venture was the Anti-Masonic Recorder, 
which was established in 1830 by J. C. Johnson, as the local organ of 
the Anti-Masonic party. It ceased to be published soon after the sub- 
sidence of the Anti-Masonic agitation. 

The village was incorporated in 1801. It was then a prosperous 
community, with several important manufacturing concerns and a num- 
ber of mercantile establishments. Flouring mills were started there at 
an early date, and two or more grist mills and saw mills were located 
on the banks of the creek at the beginning of the century. Before 
1815 these merchants were doing business in town: Wynant Vanden- 
burgh, Foster & Vandenburgh, Henry Ten Broeck, House, Myers & 
Co., Stewart & Knickerbacker, John Vibbard, .Scott & Fowler, King & 
Foster, Davis & Thorn, Moses Scott, Close & Vandecar, all of whom 
were doing a general business; Horace Hudson, hardware merchant; 
Samuel Drake, druggist ; George Edson, leather store ; Roger Evans, 
jeweler; James Fowler, tailor and Mr. Grant, hatter. Among the man- 

* This structure is eight hundred feet long and thirty feet wide, comprising four arches which 
are supported by three pillars and two abutments. It is owned by the Union Bridge Company, 
of which Thomas A. Knickerbacker is president and John Knickerbacker treasurer. 



142 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ufacturers , James Oliphant ran a tannery, Mr. Grant had a flouring 
mill, John Robinson made boots and shoes, James Hale had a forge 
and blacksmith shop. There were several lawyers in town, including 
James Van Schoonhoven, Samuel Huntington, William Given and John 
Cramer. Dr. Whitmore and Dr. Porter had offices in town about this 
time. Taverns were kept by Gerardus Van Schoonhoven, Samuel 
Deraarest, Mr. Smith and Mr. Haight. Between 1815 and 1820 other 
business enterprises were established, including the store of Todd & 
Comstock, Isaac Bailey and D K. Lighthall. N. B. Doe opened a law 
office about 181G. 

For many years, beginning about 1825, the cooperage business was 
an important industry in Walerford, where thousands of barrels and 
tubs of all kinds were turned out annually. Among the early man- 
ufacturers were men named Brewster, Driscoll, Preston and Sheridan. 

In 1828 the industrial standing of Waterford was greatly enhanced 
by the construction of a hydraulic canal. This canal was designed and 
built by John Fuller King, of Coleraine, Mass., an inventor of canal 
locks and a genius of great value to the community. The work was 
called, in his honor, "the King canal." It began above the falls in 
the Mohawk river and extended to the edge of the hill in the western 
part of the village. The construction of the fine water-power induced 
numerous manufacturers to locate in Waterford. At the lower end of 
the canal a cotton factory was located for many years. Kilby & Van- 
dewerker had a furnace there, Colonel Olney had a machine shop, and 
others had a twine factory, an ink factory and a flour and grist mill. 
The canal was lengthened in 1831, and numerous other manufactories 
availed themselves of the advantages it ofl^ered. 

It was at Waterford that one of the most noted schools for young 
ladies in the United States was first located. This was the Emma 
Willard Female Seminary (now known as the Emma Willard School). 
Mrs. Emma Willard was the wife Dr. John Willard. In 1814 she 
established a boarding school for girls at Middlebury, Vt. While act- 
ing as principal of that school she conceived a plan for the incorpo- 
ration and endowment of an institution for the higher education of 
young women. Believing that New York State offered superior ad- 
vantages for the location of such a school, she communicated an out- 
line of her plan to Governor De Witt Clinton, who at once agreed to 
assist her. According to his promise, the governor caused to be passed 
a legislative enactment incorporating a female seminary at Waterford 



WATERFORD, 1800-1831. 143 

under the care of the Regents of the Universit}' of the State of New 
York, and appropriating thereto its proper quota of the public moneys. 
The seminary was opened in the spring of 1819. After it had been 
successfully incorporated the citizens of Troy, appreciating the advant- 
ages which would accrue to them from the location of the school in 
that city, proposed to Mrs. Willard that she remove the seminary to 
Troy, agreeing to contribute freely of their means to its establishment 
and maintenance. To this proposition she assented, though efforts 
were made to induce her to remain in Waterford, and in the summer of 
1821 the school was removed from Waterford to Troy, where it has 
since been maintained. 

Waterford had good public schools during this period, and one acad- 
emy at which many of her best citizens were educated. 

Several religious societies were organized in Waterford during the 
first three decades of the present century. The first of these was the 
society which ultimately became the Presbyterian church of Waterford. 
Some authorities say that organization was effected before 1800, but if 
this is true, it was very weak, and lay dormant for several years. The 
Reformed Dutch church erected a house of worship in 1799, and the 
Presbyterians then united with this society. In 1803 the union be- 
tween the Presbyterian churches at Troy and Lansingburgh was dis- 
solved. About the same time the pulpit of the Dutch Reformed 
church of Waterford became vacant, by reason of the failing health of 
Rev. John Close, who had been pastor since 1797. Consequently the 
Presbyterian church of Lansingburgh invited the Presbyterians of 
Waterford to join with them in calling Rev. Samuel Blatchford of 
Bridgeport, Conn., to the pastorate. This proposition was agreed to, 
and the Presbyterian church of Waterford was reorganized, ecclesias- 
tically distinct from both the other churches. July 18, 1804, Rev. Mr. 
Blatchford was installed as pastor of the two churches. In that year 
the Dutch Reformed church placed its house of worship at the disposal 
of the new Presbyterian organization, and for twenty-one years united 
with it in supporting the pastor. In 1836, the Reformed church desir- 
ing to revive its organization, the Presbyterians held services in Classic 
Hall, on First street, but at once began the erection of their church on 
the corner of Division and Third streets. This building, which cost 
$4,000, was dedicated in September, 1826. Dr. Blatchford continued 
to be pastor until his death, March 17, 1828.' 

' In 1865-66 this building was enlarged and remodeled at an expense o£ $20,000. The organ 
placed in the church at that time was the gift o£ John Cramer. The edifice was rededicated 



144 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Grace Protestant Episcopal church of Waterford was organized Sep- 
tember 17, 1810, by the election of Richard Davis, jr., and John 
Vibbard as wardens; and Guert Van Schoonhoven, Henry Davis, 
Hezekiah Ketchum, James Meeker, Benjamin Chamberlain, William 
McDonald, Joseph Ketchum and Ward Rice as vestrymen. At a meet- 
ing of the vestry December 10 following, John Davis was chosen clerk, 
William M McDonald collector and John Davis treasurer. July 1, 
1811, the meeting-house which had been used by a Methodist congre- 
gation' was purchased, and at once repaired and refurnished, being 
consecrated by Bishop Hobart August 30, 1813. May 20, 1814, Rev. 
Parker Adams was called as the first rector." 

The Baptist church of Waterford was not organized until 1831, 
though Baptist gatherings had been held in town as early as 1812. 
After three years of worship at the home of Deacon Whitney, meetings 
were held in the old school house, until the erection of the first house 
of worship.' 

Waterford was the first village in Saratoga county to enjoy the privi- 
leges which accrue to any community by reason of the establishment of 
a banking institution. May 20, 1830, the Legislature passed an act 
incorporating the Saratoga County bank of Waterford, the capital stock 
of which was fixed at $100,000. John Knickerbacker, James Thomp- 
son, John Cramer, Miles Beach and John W. Kirtland were named as 
commissioners to receive subscriptions for stock and call the first meet- 
ing. John Knickerbacker, John Cramer, John Vibbard, Eli M. Todd, 
Moses Scott, Samuel Thompson, Matthew Bailey, Samuel Cook and 

May 10, ISHO. The edifice was renovated and a new pipe organ placed back of the pulpit in ISsii. 
In 189V the old windows were replaced by beautiful figured stained glass windows. The pastors 
of the church since the death o£ Dr. Blatchford have been : Kev. Ebenezer Cheever, April 9, 
1828, to March, 1830; Rev. Lawrence L. Van Dyke, Rev. George Bush supplies to 18.31 ; Rev. Reu- 
ben .Smith, May, 1831, to April 1, 1848 ; Rev. Alexander B. Bullions, September 14, 1848, to 1853 ; 
Rev. Lewis H. Lee, ISJ-S to 1863; Rev. Arthur T. Pierson, October 6, 1863, to 1869; Rev. R. H. P. 
Vail, September 14, 1869, to March 31, 1876 ; Rev. A. B. Riggs, 1876-1889 ; Rev. Robert W. Beers, 
1890-1898. 

' No record of this early Methodist church is e.xtant. 

^ The first church was burned in the groat fire of 1841, but soon after a new edifice was con- 
structed of brick at a cost of about $6,000. In ISO.'j this was enlarged, remodeled and completely 
refurnished, including the purchase of a fine organ, ata total expense of about $10,000. The rec- 
tors succeeding Rev. Parker Adams have been Revs. George Uphold, Henry .Stebbins. George 
B. Eastman, Joshua Morss, Joseph J. Nicholson, Edward Edwards, Richard S. Adams, William 
Walsh, Joseph Carey, George F. Ferguson, Charles H. Lancaster, F. A. Shoup, Walter Thomp- 
son, William D. Maxon, William Rollins Webb, Charles E. Freeman, S. T. Street and John Mills 
Gilbert. 

'This church, a brick structure, was built in 1842, chiefly through the efforts of George Hurd, 
Merritt Potter and T. J. Eddy. The structure was rebuilt in 1867 at a cost of nearly $20,000. 



STILLWATER, 1800-183L 145 

Miles Beach were named as the first directors, and at their first meet- 
ing, held Jul}' 14, 1830, they elected John Knickerbacker president, 
Jonathan H. Douglas cashier, and John Cramer attorney, and named John 
Vibbard, Eli M. Todd and John House as a committee to select a build- 
ing for a banking house. 

September 34, 1804, a number of members of the Masonic fraternity 
residing in the town of Milton met at the residence of William G. Boss, 
at Milton Hill, and organized a lodge of that order. March 32, 1805, 
this organization received from the Grand lodge a charter giving it the 
title of Friendship lodge No. 118, F. & A. M. Meetings were held 
in the town of Milton until January 3, 1821, when the lodge was re- 
moved to Ballston Spa. Here communications were held for fourteen 
years, at the end of which period the charter was surrendered. The 
lodge was never revived. 

The following advertisment appeared in the Ballston Spa Gazette of 
January 7, 1823: 

' AVaterford Ladies' School.— MISS HAIGHT respectfully informs the public, that 
she has opened a school for the instruction of young ladies, in which are taught 
the following branches: — Spelling, Reading, Writing. Definitions, English Gram- 
mar, Arithmetic, Geography and Composition, $5 per quarter. Mappery, History, 
Rhetoric, Elements of Chemistry and Natural Philosophy, Use of Globes, Geometry, 
Astronomy, Logic, Moral and Intellectual Philosophy, separate or in conjunction 
with the above branches, $0 per quarter. Drawing and Painting, ?5. Painting on 
Velvet, §5. Both branches taught together, $8 per quarter. The French language 
and music will be taught provided a sufficient number should apply to compose a 
class. 

Waterford, October 3, 1822. 



THE undersigned cheerfully permits himself to be referred to both for the char- 
acter and accomplishments of Miss Haight, and he has no doubt, the public will soon 
perceive the advantage of encouraging the seminary of which this lady has the 
charge. Samuel Blatchford, D. D. 

Lansingburg, Oct. 12, 1823. 

The first noteworthy industrial advance in the town of Stillwater 
occurred about 1813, when Rensselaer Schtiyler, a man of wealth and 
enterprise, purchased a tract of land now occupied by a portion of the 
village of Stillwater and established mills. Already there were in and 
near the village a grist mill, saw mill, flour mill, a tannery, an ashery 
and otlier smaller industries. The opening of the Champlain canal in 
1835 gave a great impetus to trade. Soon after that auspicious event, 
Ephraim Newland became the promoter of several enterprises. Mills 

10 



14G OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

were established by him for the manufacture of flannel and knit goods, 
and soon after a second knitting mill, a wall paper plant and a straw 
board mill were started. These industries caused the population of the 
place to increase rapidly. The village had been incorporated in 1816, 
the bounds being from the Stillwater creek half a mile up the river, 
and more than a quarter of a mile west of the river. In 1817 the 
Schuyler mills and all the additions built after the erection of the orig- 
inal buildings were burned. The property afterward was owned by 
Philip J. Schuyler, who erected a grist mill and clothing factory. About 
the time the canal was constructed a brick kiln was erected, employing 
the clay thrown from the bed of the canal for the manufacture of brick. 

The original Presbyterian church of Stillwater ceased to exist as an 
organized body about 1795. In 181G the Presbyterians and Congrega- 
tionalists of the village united and formed "The First Presbyterian 
Congregational church of Stillwater. " But this organization was not 
a success, there being a constant conflict of authority, although the 
confession of faith and covenant were alike for both denominations. 
Denison Andrews, John W. Patrick, Samuel Low and John Sullivan 
were the finst elders, and Thomas Morey, William Seymour and Peter 
Andrews deacons. When it was seen that the two denominations 
could not exist as one society, the church was dissolved and a Presby- 
terian church organized March 11, 1818, w-ith John W. Patrick, Jesse 
Warren and Alfred Benedict as elders, and Amos Hodgman as deacon. 
Rev. Dirck C. Lansing, who had been pastor of the united body, re- 
tired at this time, and Rev. Mark Tucker became the first pastor of 
the new society, serving in this capacity until 1824.' 

Methodism gained a foothold in town early in the century. A society 
was organized at Ketchum's Corners about 1800, but little is known of 
its early history. Rev. Datus Ensign was the pioneer of Methodism 
at Stillwater. In 1828 he held his first meeting in the school house in 
the northern part of the village, where a small class was formed. From 
this class sprang the present Methodist church of Stillwater.' 

' The first house of worship of this Presbyterian church, built in 1701, was replaced by a com- 
modious brick edifice in 1842. 

2 This society was regularly united with the Stillwater circuit in 1835, Rev. E. Goss preaching 
regularly once in two weeks. Soon after the church was attached to the society at Mechanic- 
ville, but in 1857 the present M. E. church of Stillwater was organized, as a separate station, 
under the ministry of Rev. Reuben Westcott. Eleven years before the organization of the so- 
ciety, or in 1846, a house of worship was erected at an e.^pense of $800, being dedicated by Rev. 
Allen Steele. In 1874, under the pastorate of Rev. A. C. Rose, the erection of the present edifice 
was begun. It was completed during the second pastorate of Rev. W. D. Hitchcock in 1886-1888. 



HALFMOOiN, 1800-1831. 147 

The industrial development of Halfmoon was slow until the opening 
cf the Champlain canal in 1825. Numerous grist mills and saw mills, 
with at least one brick kiln, were in operation in the early part of the 
present century, but few other manufacturing concerns were erected 
until after the first decade. 

Edward A. Morehouse, who came to Mechanicville in 1835, recalls a clear picture 
of the village of that date. South of the kill, Dr. Guerdon; two Boillo families; a 
coloi'ed family; the old tavern; the blacksmith shop; further down, McMulligan. 
The Guerdon house was partly log, on the site of the present parsonage. On the 
Stillwater side, west of Main street, Morehouse's tailor shop, Vernara's store, John 
Gross's tavern ; joining the store was Garrington's residence, then a house and store 
kept by William Pierce. On the east side of the street. Skinner's blacksmith shop, 
Farnum's store, where the meat market is now, a brick house, Squire Hutton's resi- 
dence, now Widow Boardman's, Garrington's harness shop, over it Lockwood's shoe 
shop, Lynott Bloodgood's; at the corner old-fashioned hay scales, wagon and all 
swung up by chains to be weighed ; beyond these eight or ten other buildings, and 
in the rear the factory and grist mill, as now. The factory had been erected by 
Squire Hutton many years before, had been burned, rebuilt, and in 1825 was owned 
by Bloodgood.' 

Few manufacturing concerns existed outside of Mechanicville in these 
days. The chief occupation of the inhabitants of the town was agri- 
culture, for the soil of the town is generally very fertile and productive, 
both on the flats and the uplands. 

Several religious societies were organized in Halfmoon during this 
period. Early in the century a Friends' meeting was established about 
three miles southwest of Mechanicville, but the meetings were discon- 
tinued about 1850. The Second Baptist church of Halfmoon, located 
for many years at Clifton Park village, and the old Baptist church at 
Middletown were successors of the original church at Newtown. The 
Methodist church of Mechanicville had its inception in a class organ- 
ized in 1828. This resulted in the erection of a chapel in 1832." 
Though the Protestant Episcopal church at Mechanicville (now St. 
Luke's church) was not formally organized until August 3, 1830, the 
erection of the house of worship was begun at least a year before that 
date. It was consecrated August 24, 1830, by Right Rev. John Henry 
Hobart, bishop of New York. The first officers of the church were: 

* Sylvester's History of Saratoga County, 1878. 
'^ Rev. Mr. Ensign was the first pastor of this i;hurch, which now [1898] is under the pastoral 
charge of Rev. Dr. William H. Hughes, The church edifice on William street which served the 
society so many years was sold in 18S3 to the Baptist congregation, and a new church was 
erected in that year on North Main street, at the cost of $:;0,000. This building was dedicated 
by Bishop Thomas L. Bowman December 18, 1884. 



148 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Wardens, John C. Valentine and William Gates; vestrymen, Hugh 
Peebles, John Cross, Munson Smith, William L. R. Valentine, Lynott 
Bloodgood, William Tyler, William Tibbitts and Cramer Vernam. ' 

Good schools existed in town and were well patronized. The old 
Halfmoon academy, located at Middletown, was considered the best, 
not only in Halfmoon, but within many miles thereof. Among the 
school commissioners who served at the beginning of the century were 
Hezekiah Ketchum, Benjamin Mix, Solomon Waite and Robert Ken- 
nedy. Among those who served after the passage of the general school 
law of 1812 were Ira Scott, Ashbel Philo, David Garnsey, Nathan 
Garnsey, jr., Samuel Reynolds, Nicholas B. Doe, John E. Vischer, 
John B. Miller, Elnathan Smith, Nathan Peck, Henry Clow, Nehemiah 
G. Philo, Silas Sweetland, Joseph Read, Benjamin Hall and Powfell 
Howl and. 

The history of vSchuylerville and the town of Saratoga, commonly 
known as Old Saratoga, during the first third of the century, can be 
told in a few words. Little else is to be recorded but the development 
of the agricultural interests of the community. The inhabitants of 
Schuylerville did not feel that their village was important enough to 
ask for incorporation until 1831, the end of the period covered by this 
chapter. The early manufactures, aside from those referred to in a 
preceding chapter, were few but important. The old fulling mill 
established by the Schuyler family before 1800, passed into the hands 
of Mr. Lawrence in 1819. This he operated until about 1830, when he 
took charge of a woolen factory located in a part of the old building 
formerly occupied as a distillery by Mr. Schuyler. The manufacture of 
woolen goods was continued in this building until it was destroyed by 
fire about 1850. In 1838 Philip Schuyler built a cotton factory, which 
was operated continuously for manj' years, finally becoming the prop- 
erty of the Saratoga Victory Manufacturing company. This is believed 
to be the oldest mill of its kind but one in New York State. 

A Masonic lodge existed in Schuylerville for manj' years, but it was 
disbanded during the great Anti-Masonic agitation and was never re- 
organized. A lodge of Odd Fellows was established there in the early 
days of that order, but this too was discontinued many years ago. 

' When tlie funds were subscribed for the construction of this church it was stipulated 
that it should be dedicated by the bishop of New York, though all religious bodies were per- 
mitted to worship therein. This naturally led to dissensions and July 1.5, ISM, the vestry of St. 
Luke's having obtained a release from all societies using the church except the Episcopalians, 
the property came into the sole possession of St. Luke's church. 



SARATOGA, 1800-1831. 149 

Several school houses were located in town during this period, but lit- 
tle is known of them. In 1813, in pursuance of the general school law 
enacted the preceding year, the town was divided into eighteen school 
districts and these school commissioners were elected: Wallace Craw- 
ford, Harvey Granger, John R. Mott. The inspectors chosen were: 
Philip Duryea, Martin L. Bryan, Reuben Perry, Esek Cowen, David 
Evarts, Zeno Remington. Other commissioners who served during 
this period included James Green, jr., Jonas Olmstead, James Mott, 
William Davis, Eli Granger, James W. Smith, Edward Fitch, Henry 
D. Chapman, Francis R. Winney, James Anibal, Oliver Cleveland, 
Henry Wagman, James Place, Ira Lawrence, William Wilcox, Elna- 
than Patterson, William B. Caldwell, Henry F. Sherman 2d, Richard 
M. Livingston, Joseph Soulc, Orville B. Dibble, Stephen H. Dilling- 
ham, Henry T. Sherman and Abram B. Barker. Among the school 
inspectors of this period were John H. .Steele, John R. Mott, Richard 
M. Livingston, William L. F. Warren, Dudley Farlin, James Green, 
Henry D. Chapman, Elnathan Spinner, James W. Smith, Aaron Blake, 
William B. Caldwell, Abram Van Duzen, Rockwell Putnam, Harmon 
J. Betts, Philip Schuyler, Daniel Morgan, jr., Oliver Brisbin, Joseph 
Welch and James C. Milligan. 

At least two churches e.xisted in the town of Saratoga at the opening 
of the century — the Reformed Dutch church and the Baptist church of 
Schuylerville. January 30, 1827, a subscription was made to raise 
funds to build a house of worship for the Methodists residing in the 
town. Tlie document contained this interesting statement: 

From Lansingburg along the valley of the Hudson for fifty miles, with a breadth 
of from eight to ten miles, the Episcopal Methodists have not one house dedicated 
to the worship of God. Private dwellings, school houses and barns have hitherto 
offered to their classes a precarious yet acceptable resort. Perhaps there is not a 
spot in that rich and populous district of country where so many of this denomi- 
nation of Christians would meet as at Schuylerville if a suitable edifice could be 
erected. 

This plea was successful, and in the summer of 1827 a house of wor- 
ship was btiilt, and dedicated the following autumn. At the time of 
the building the trustees were John Cox, Jedediah Beckwith, Oliver 
Cleveland, John Seeley and George vStrover. John Cox, John Seeley 
and Asa Welch were the class leaders. Among the first preachers were 
B. Griffin, W. P. Lake, W. H. Norris, G. Lyons, C. P. Clark, D. Ensign 
and J. Beaman. No other churches were organized in this town until 
1838, when the Episcopal church of Schuylerville was founded. 



150 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

That politics three-quarters of a century ago was conducted on much 
the same plan as to-da)' is evidenced by the following from the Ballston 
Spa Gazette of January 7, 1823: 

Reward of Merit. — ^On the 9th of February last, Mr. Gilbert C. Beedell, esq., a 
meritorious officer, was removed from the office of Post-Master, at Schuylerville, in 
the town of Saratoga, to make room for Mr. O. C. Dibble, who, we understand, re- 
ceived his appointment by means of an invidious representation, made to the post- 
master-general, and which, it will be recollected, was shortly after exultingly an- 
nounced in the "Sentinel." We have now the satisfaction of announcing that a 
proper statement has been laid before the P. M. G. and that Mr. Beedell was rein- 
stated in that office on the 1st instant. 

Several small mills were built at Corinth, on the banks of the Hud- 
son principall)-, soon after the opening of the century. About 1804 a 
saw mill, the first in the town, was built at the falls in the river. In 
1810 it was owned and operated by Ira Haskins. In 1335 it was torn 
down and a new mill was built by William, Thomas and Ebenezer Ide. 
Thomas Harsha had built a grist mill a few years earlier. In 1820 
George W. and Matthew Harsha built a woolen factory. About 1829 
Beriah Palmer of Ballston purchased the property, with the power, 
and for nearlj' thirty years afterward it remained idle. 

Schools were established at Jessup's Landing and South Cornith 
about 1800. These were taught by Mrs. Church, Nehemiah Price, 
Stephen Olney, Mr. Sabine and Mr. Spaulding. 

The first church organized in Corinth during this century was the 
Presbyterian church of Corinth, which was started August 29, 1814, as 
the Congregational church of Hadley and Luzerne. The church was 
instituted by Rev. Cyrus Comstock, missionarj^; Rev. Lebbeus Arm- 
strong of Moreau and Reuben Armstrong of Bolton. At this meeting 
Edward Sherman and Nezer Scofield were chosen deacons. In Decem- 
ber of that year this societ}^ connected itself with the Albany presby- 
tery. In 1822 it changed to a Presbyterian church and took the name 
of the Presbyterian church of Corinth.' 

The early days of the century, as now, were devoted almost exclu- 
sively to agricultural purstiits by the inhabitants of the town of Balls- 

' The first church edifice was constructed in 1832 at Jessup's Landing. In 18.')C the society be- 
came extinct and the property was sold by an order of the county court. The pastors of this 
church were : Rev. Joseph Farrar, 1S16; Rev. William Williams, 1818; Rev. Mr. Manly, 1822; Rev. 
Mr. Cook, ISaj; Rev. Mr. Beckley, 182.5; Rev. Josiah Comstock, 1826; Rev. T. Redfield, 1828; Rev. 
Joel Wood, 18;i2; Rev. T. Redfield, Rev. Jeremiah Wood and others. The present church was not 
organized until February 17, 1867, when Thomas Brown and John C. Herrick were elected elders. 
The house of worship near Palmer's Falls was built, at an expense of $2,.500, in the fall of 187;^, and 
dedicated in April, 1874, Rev. Henry Darling preaching the dedicatory sermon. 



CHARLTON— CALWAY, 1800-1831. 151 

ton residing outside the village of Ballston Spa, which occupied a por- 
tion of the town. , Not unmindful of the welfare of the young, these 
inhabitants supported several good schools. About 1804 the " Ballston 
academy," referred to in preceding pages in this chapter, was opened, 
and many of the farmers residing as far as five miles distant sent their 
children to school there. There was another excellent school at Acad- 
emy Hill, another at Burnt Hills and still another at East Line. The 
latter was patronized by the inhabitants of both Ballston and Malta. 

In the neighboring town of Charlton there existed, between 1820 and 
1835, a hamlet called Little Troy, located about a mile and a half 
southeast of the village of Charlton. This place at one time promised 
to become a thriving village. In it was located a fulling mill, a card- 
ing mill, a saw mill, a gri.st mill, three distilleries, a blacksmith shop, 
a store and a tavern. Hardly a trace of the manufactories is in exist- 
ence today. Aside from this industrial venture Charlton has had in 
its history few manufacturing establishments except such as were 
necessary for the convenience of the farming community, such as saw 
mills, grist mills, wagon shops and blacksmith shops. There were 
few schools in town in the early days, and of these practically nothing 
is known. 

The first church organized in Charlton during this century, and the 
third in the town, was St. Paul's Episcopal church, which was formed 
December 10, 1803, by the election of these officers: Wardens, Jere- 
miah Smith and James Sherwood; vestrymen, Robert Benedict, James 
Bradley, John Lendrum, Eleazer Dows, Eliud Davis, Matthew La Rue, 
Joseph Van Kirk and Patrick Callahan. The following spring a house 
of worship was erected by Eleazer Dows. The first rector. Rev. Fred- 
erick Van Horn, assumed charge of the church August 9, 180.5.' 

Agriculture has always been the chief occupation of the inhabitants of 
Galway, and nothing of consequence can be said of the early industrial 
development aside from this branch. Gen. Earl Stimson, a citizen of 
prominence in the early part of the century, had a store, hotel, boarding- 
house and meat-packing establishment about 1810 on the hill known as 
Stimson's Corners. He also owned stores at Galway and Broadalbin. 
Thomas Mairs of Argyle, Washington county, who settled in Galway 
in 1822, embarked in the mercantile business in 1829, continuing nearly 
half a century. 

' The first church was repaired and remodeled in 18:36. Since 1857 the church has been con- 
nected with the society of Calvary church at Burnt Hills, both being served by one rector. 



15? OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

That the inhabitants of Galway in the early days were a deeply 
religious people is evident from the fact that, though sparsely popu- 
lated, there existed at least half a dozen churches in town by the end 
of the period under consideration — 1800 to 1831 — three of which were 
organized between 1807 and 1820. The first of these was the First 
Associate Presbyterian church of Galway, which was duly organized 
February 24, 1807. This body at first assumed the Congregational form 
of government, but was allowed to become attached to the Albany 
presbytery. Some time before this the Presbyterians had started the 
construction of their house of worship, which was begun in 1804 and 
finished in 1800. The original membership was but seventeen, but in 
two years this had increased to one hundred and thirty three. The 
first governing committee, appointed February G, 1808, consisted of 
Joel .Smith, Avery Starkweather, Earl Stimson, Justus Harris, Joseph 
Mather, Nehemiah Conde, Jehial Dean, Daniel Dean, Israel Phelps and 
Ezra Kellogg.' The second church was the First Christian church of 
Galway, organized July 11, 1814. The year following Reuben Wait 
and Jacob Capron were elected deacons. Rev. Maxson Mosher was 
the most prominent of the early pastors of the church. He was or- 
dained to the ministry April 30, 1820, and served the church as pastor 
for about a quarter of a century. The first house of worship was built 
in 1814 at Mechanic Street, about three miles north of Galway. It was 
the first Christian church erected in the State of New York.' 

In the town of Edinburgh there is little to record for this period. 
The building of the necessary saw mills and grist mills were practically 
the only industries in the town. Little is known of the early schools. 
In 1812 a school was taught by Titus Andrews in the house of Abijah 

* In 1834 the church assumed the F'resbyterian form, the first session consisting of Elders 
Perez Otis, Piatt B. Smith, Benham Smith, George Davidson, Calvin Preston, William Beers 
and William Cruttenden, and Deacons Enoch Johnson and Stephen C. Hays. A new church 
edifice was erected in 1853 at an expense of about $6,IXK), being dedicated April 18, 18.>i. A 
parsonage costing $2,400 was erected in 1874. The pastors of the church have been : Revs. Syl- 
vanus Haight, Noah M. Wells, William Chester, Samuel Nott, K, Deming, James Harper, Dun- 
can Kennedy, Henry Lyman, J. L. Willard, Laurin E. Lane, McFarlane, William H. Mill- 
ham, Oliver Hemstreet, 18r3-/880; William C. McBeth, 1880-18X1; James P. Bryant, 1881-1888; J. 
A. B. Ogliver, 1888-1889; Cha/les E. Herbert, 1889-1894; Lewis R. Webber, 18114 to present time. 
For many years the pastora of this church have had charge of the Presbyterian churches at 
Galway and West Galway jointly. 

2 Many of the members oR this church having embraced the doctrines of Second Adventisra, 
the society was reorganized August •J.5, 1855, by the election of Restcorae Hall as deacon, Daniel 
T. Hart, Reuben Wait and Hiram Wait as trustees, and Samuel G. Rider as clerk. In 1845 
thirteen members of this church organized the church at Barkersville. The house of wor.ship 
was repaired in 18G1. ' 



EDINBURGH— MALTA, 1800-1831. 153 

Stark. About the same time th^ Sandy Hill school was in existence. 
In 1816 another school was started on Liberty Hill. The school in the 
Anderson neighborhood was one of the earliest in town. 

The first church established during this century was the Presby- 
terian church at Batchellerville, which was started as a Congregational 
church by the Edinburgh Congregational society, organized September 
0, 1808, by Rev. Sylvanus Haight of Galway. The first house of wor- 
ship, erected in 1815, was located at Fish House (Northampton), but 
in 1824 another was erected in Edinburgh, near the old cemetery be- 
tween Beecher's Hollow and the bridge over the Sacand.iga. In this 
year the society divided, part going to the church at Northampton and 
part remaining in Edinburgh. Soon after its organization the society 
became Presbyterian, but in 1831 it again became Congregational, 
though still remaining under the care of the Albany presbytery.' Two 
Methodist churches were established in the town during these years. 
The first of these was the Methodist Episcopal church at Beecher's Hol- 
low (Edinburgh), which was organized about 1830, and the "Edin- 
burgh Hill" M. E. church, organized a year or two later. ^ 

Agriculture having been almost the sole occupation of the inhabitants 
of Malta since the settlement of the town, little remains to be said of 
the early industrial pursuits. The people have always been progressive, 
and early in the history of the town maintained good schools. Among 
the school commissioners who served from 1813 to 1831 were such 
prominent men as Richard Dunning, Thomas Hall, John B. Hall, 
Elliot Green, Zadock Dunning, Reuben Doolittle, David Everts, 
William Baker, Dennis Marvin, Stephen Valentine, Peter Fort, 
Robert Hunter, Palmer Cady, Gould Morehouse, Zalmon Olmstead, 
Moses Dunning, Thomas Collamer, Daniel A. Collamer and Alford 

' The church built in 1824 was abandoned and toi-n down in 1866, when the society again be- 
came purely Presbyterian and erected a house of worship in the growing village of Batcheller- 
ville at a cost of $8,000. There the society has been located ever since, but most of the time the 
pastors have supplied the church at Northampton in connection with the Batchellerville society. 
The pastors of the church since ISllhave been : Revs. N. M. Wells, Lebbeus Armstrong, Will- 
iams, Joseph Farrar, Halsey A, Wood, Monteith, M. Donalds, Benjamin H. Pitnara, Royal A. 

.\very, P. R Burnham, H. Rinker. S. P. RoUo, L. H. Pease, Isaac De Voe. B. P. Johnson, Henry 
Lancashire, H. C. Stanton, James R. Bryant, lHTr-18«l; H. R. Rundall. 18S1-I.SS2; W. B. Stewart, 
188".i-I88:i; James B. Campbell, 18S)-188.i; D. M. Countermine, iaSfi-1889; William H Hudnut (supplyl, 
1889; Rev. Mr. Renshaw, ISS'J-lSilO; John G. Lovell, June 1, 180O, to the present time. Mr. Lovell's 
pastorate has been the longest in the history of the society, since it became a Presbyterian church 
in 1867, when the present house of worship was dedicated. 

' The latter church had no house of worship until about isi5. This was razed in 1871 and a 
new one erected, being dedicated in 1873 by Rev. J. K. Wager. In 188S the interior of the church 
at Beecher's Hollow was remodeled. In 1897 a parsonage was purchased. 



154 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Scribner. School inspectors serving during- this period included, 
besides some of the men already mentioned, Philo T. Beebe, Mataliah 
Lathrop, jr., Luther Hulbert, Samuel Hunter, Jared Seymour, Isaac 
Andrews, David Powers, Henry Doolittle, Lewis Waterburj^ Bockes 
Barrett, Stephen Thorn, Abner Carpenter, Danforth Shumway, Moses 
Landon, Barzillai Millard, Daniel A. Collamer, William Marvin and 
Roswell Day. 

The Methodist Episcopal church at East Line, now extinct, was 
built in 1809 by the first religious society in town. Many of its mem- 
bers, however, lived in the town of Ballston, and the house of worship 
was erected on the town line for the convenience of all. The building 
is now used as a school house. It is believed that this pioneer society 
of the town was the M. E. church of Stillwater, incorporated March 
36, 1800, as the original town of Stillwater in that year embraced the 
town of Malta. Services were discontinued here in 1870, the members 
being transferred either to Ballston or Jonesville. Another church of 
this denomination was organized about 1827 at Malta Ridge. For 
many years it ha:s been supplied by the pastors at Round Lake and 
elsewhere. In 1829 the Methodist Protestant church of Malta Ridge 
was organized, and three years later a house of worship was erected at 
a cost of $1,000. 

Northumberland, too, has been principally an agricultural town, 
though it had some manufactures in the early days of the century. 
These were mainly saw mills, grist mills and flour mills, with at least 
one tannery and a wagon shop. Stores were numerous. Charles Car- 
penter had the second store in the town, at Northumberland village, in 
1800. Three years later another was opened by Mr. Van Tuyl of New 
York. The first store at Gansevoort was not opened until 1831 or 1832, 
when Morgan Lewis was established in business. Several lawyers lo- 
cated in town at an early date. The most important law firm was that of 
Cowen & Gansevoort, of which Esek Cowen was the head. This firm 
was in business at Gansevoort as early as 1807. John and William 
Metcalf had a law office at Northumberland village four or five years 
earlier. All had extensive practice. At Northumberland village, 
which afterward was known as Fort Miller Bridge, an incorporated 
company erected a wooden bridge in 1803. This was superseded by a 
a new bridge in 1845. 

The first church in Northumberland, the Reformed church, was not 
organized until November 30, 1820. It sprang from the pioneer church 



HADLEY. 1800-1831. 155 

at Schuylerville, and was organized at Bacon Hill. At the institution 
of the church, John Terhune and Carruth Brisbin were ordained elders 
and Andrew Johnson and Jonas Olmstead deacons. Rev. Philip Dur- 
yea, pastor of the Schuylerville church, was engaged to preach part 
of the time for the new church. 

The early industries of the town of Hadle}' were unimportant. 
Jeremy Rockwell built a grist mill at Hadley village in 1803, and 
opened a store in 1807. Soon after two saw mills were erected at 
Conklingville, one each side of the Sacandaga river. In 1828 Johnson 
& Wait built a dam across the Sacandaga at that point, and in 1831 
another was built by Isaac Barber. Both were carried awa)' by a flood 
in 1848. A bridge at the mouth of that river was built by Obadiah 
Wilcox in 1813. Of the early schools almost nothing is known. 

About the year 1825 the first religious meetings in Hadley were held 
at the house of John Loveless. The following year an open commun- 
ion Baptist society was organized, with Rev. Chandler as pastor 

and John Loveless and John Jenkins as deacons. The society had no 
house of worship however for many years." 

Of Moreau there is little to be said as bearing on this period. Almost 
the sole industries of these times were such as were necessary to the 
existence of the inhabitants. In 1813 a ferry was established by one 
Tillottson at the great bend in the Hudson. At this time saw mills 
and grist mills were about the only enterprises in the town. 

In 1802 Amos Hawley, who had removed to Hadley from Connecti- 
cut, became instrumental in the organization of a Congregational 
church, of which he became one of the first deacons. Rev. Lebbeus 
Armstrong, the first pastor, was installed in 180-4. Internal affairs in 
the church appear to have been far from harmonious, and dissensions 
were almost continuous; even to such an extent that one faction left 
the society and built a separate church. The church finally became so 
weak, and there were so many other churches of essentially similar 
faith in adjoining towns, that it became extinct in 1859. 

An important event in the history of the town was the organization 
of "The Moreau and Northumberland Temperate Society" in 1808, 
mainly through the efforts of Dr. Billy J. Clark, an early physician. 
This society is referred to more in detail in a preceding chapter. 

* This society was reorganized in 1^1 as the Free Will Baptist church of Hadley, and in 1844 
Elder David Hyde built the first house of worship, a cheap frame structure for temporary use. 
A new church was built in 1869 at a cost of $3,800, and dedicated January 20, 1870, by Rev. 
Cjeorge T. Day of Dover, N. H. The first pastor was Rev. John H. Loveless. 



15G OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Several events of more than passing interest transpired in the town 
of Greenfield in the early years of the century. One of the first, as 
well as the most noteworthy, of these, was the organization of St. 
John's Lodge No. 22, F. & A. M., which was chartered by the Grand 
lodge February 20, IS03, as No. 90. Upon the reorganization of Ma- 
sonry in this State in 1839 after the great anti-Masonic agitation, the 
lodge was given the number 22. June 2, 1802, the lodge was duly in- 
stituted and the following officers elected and installed : John St. John, 
W. M.; Jeremy Rockwell, S. W.; Potter Johnson, J. W. ; Joseph 
BUickleach, secretar\-; James Vail, treasurer; Benjamin Word en, S. D. ; 
Daniel Hicks, J. D. ; Frederick Weed and Asa Chatfield, stewards. 
From the time of its organization until 1870 the lodge continued to 
meet at Porter's Corners, but in that year the headquarters were 
changed to Greenfield Centre, where about §2, GOO were spent in pur- 
chasing and refitting the Ingerson store at that place. The masters of 
St. John's lodge from its institution up to the present time and the 
year of their election have been : 

1803, John St. John; 1S03. Jeremy Rockwell- 1804, Asahel Porter; 1806, Oliver C. 
Comstoek; 1807, Daniel Hicks; 1808. John St. John; 1809, Lewis Scott; 1811. Abner 
Medbery: 1813, Joseph Blackleach; 1813, Nathan Medbery; ISU Lewis Scott; 1815, 
Nathan Medbery; 18IS, Simeon Gray; 1819, Nathan Medbery; 1823, George Sax; 
1834, Rensselaer Sax; 1838, Hiram Medbery; 1830. Rensselaer Sax; 1833, John E. 
Harris; 1834, George Riddell; 1830, William Burnham; 1837. George Riddell; 1838, 
Rensselaer Sax; 1842. John Gilford: 1844, John S. Weed; 1847, Daniel Wing; 
1848, John S. Weed; 1849, John Gifford; 1853. Daniel Wing; 1854. John 
Gifford; 1857, John S. Weed; 1860, Morgan H. Chr>-sler; 1861, Truman E. 
Parkraan; 1863, lanthus G. Johnson; 1864, Gideon W. Seofield; 1875, Edward A. 
Rood: 1876, Gideon W. Seofield; 1877. Albert G. Wing; 1887, Charles W. Spaulding; 
1888. lanthus G. Johnson; 18S9, Albert G. Wing; 1893, Clifford E. Cady: 1893, 
Arthur W Johnson ; 1894. Clarence E. Latham ; 1895-1897, Charles B. Mallory. 

February 7, 1805, a mark lodge was chartered there, in connection 
with St. John's lodge, and called "St. John's Lodge, Mark Master 
Masons, No. 26," with John St. John as master, Asahel Porter as 
senior warden and Beroth BuUard as junior warden. This lodge con- 
tinued until February 3, 1825, when St. John's Chapter No. 103, R. A. 
M., vWas chartered, with these officers: High Priest, Elihu Wing; 
king. Lewis Scott; scribe, Abner Medbery. The high priests of St. 
John's Chapter since its organization have been : 

1837, Lewis Scott; 1838. Rensselaer Sax ; 1839. Woodruff Gibbs; 1S30-1S33. Rens- 
selaer Sax; 1834-1835, William Burnham; 1836-1843, Rensselaer Sax; 1843. John S. 



GREENFIKLIJ— DAY, 1800-1831. 157 

Weed; 1844, Rensselaer Sax ; 1845-1848, John S. Weed; 1849, John Gifford; 1850- 
1853, John S. Weed; 1854, Samuel Eddy; 1855, Daniel Wing; 1856, John E, Corn- 
stock; 1857, Matthew Owen; 1858, John S. Weed; 1859, John Giffiord; 1860, William 
L. Putnam; 1861, Daniel Wing; 1862-18G3, Truman E. Parkman; 1864, Alonzo 
Russel; 1805, Truman E. Parkman; 1806-1871, lanthus G. Johnson; 1873, Truman E. 
Parkman; 1873-1875, lanthus G. Johnson; 1876-1888, P:iihu Wing; 1889, Albert G. 
Wing; 1890-1893, Elihu Wing; 1894-1898, William H. Harris. 

At the organization of St. John's Chapter there were eighty three 
chapters in this State, and the total number in the State now working 
is one hundred and eighty-eight." 

In April, 1809, several of the representative citizens of the town met 
and organized the Greenfield Temperance Society by electing Rev. 
lilias Gilbert president and secretary, and Howell Gardiner, Salmon 
Child and Jonathan Wood an executive committee. In 18:jn it was re- 
organized on total abstinence principles. 

The third event in mind was the organization of the Universalist 
church of Porter's Corners. The church edifice was constructed in 
1810, but the society was not organized until 1819. It was called the 
I'irst Universalist Church and Society of Greenfield. The first board 
i)f trustees was composed of Frederick Parkman, Abner Medbery and 
John W. Creal. Rev. Hosea Parsons was the first pastor. 

For many years after its settlement the principal industry in the town 
of Day was the development of the lumber interests. One of the most 
noted lumbermen there was Eliphaz Day,' after whom the town was 
named. His business furnished employment to a number of men. In 
1804 Thomas Yates, an Englishman, came from Schenectadj' and taught 
school during the winter of 1804-O. Sanders's mill, on Daly's creek, 
was built about 1808. In the fall of 1825 a dam was built across the 
Sacanadaga at the mouth of Bell brook, and a saw mill was built there. 
It was owned by Eliphaz Da)', Abner Wait and John Johnson. The 
dam was torn out in 1838 and the mill was moved further down the 
stream, into the town of Hadley. Rev. Dr. Wellman, a Methodist 
mini.ster, preached at the house of Daniel Hines as early as 1807, but 
no church was organized for many years. A Baptist society was or- 
ganized in 1812 by Elder vSimmonds, who, with Daniel Corey, preached 

' The author is indebted to lanthus G. Johnson, M. D., of Greenfield Centre, for this complete 
history of St. John's lodge and St. John's Chapter. 

^Elipha/. Day partially cleared thousands of acres along the Sacanadaga. floating the logs 
down that river and the Hudson to market. April 19, 1827, he was drowned while passing through 
the "horse race " at Conklingville in a row boat. The name of the town was changed from Con- 
cord to Day, in his honor, a short time after his death. 



U»S Ol'R OOrNTY ANP ITS rKOPLE. 

at private houses for several years. No churoii was over Iniilt, and tlic 
society finally became extinct. 

Nothing is known of any industries of importance, excepting' agri- 
cult uix\ which existeil in Wilton in this early period. Most of the 
inhabitants vveiv farmers, and that they were God-fearing men and 
women is shown by the fact that churches were org-anized while the 
population of the town was yet quite small. Probably as early as 
IS05 a meetinghouse was erected at Kmerson's Corners, and here 
Rev. T.ebbeus Armstrt^ng, pastor of the Congregational church of Mo- 
reau. used to preach. The chui-ch was opened to all denominations. 
About ISlo the Haptist chuivh of Wilton was organisevl, and some of 
the early preachers were Elders Blakeman. Fletcher and Can-. A brick 
chuTvh was built in lSo4, but the society has been extinct since 1ST4. 
The Methixlist chujvh was also org-anired during this period, but little 
cjui be learned of its history. 

Agriculture has been the principal occupation of the inhabitants of 
Clifton Park since the settlement of the town, and the manufacturing 
industries, as a rule, have been small. The history of the town is little 
more than the plain story of the development of fann lands, the estab- 
lishment of schools and churches and such other features as are com- 
mon to other rural cotnmunities. Of the first schools, howe\-er. the 
rec\>nls fail to tell anything \-ery definite. Among the early business 
enteiYrises, we learn that in the year ISOi^ an ashery. a distillery and a 
g-eneral store were established in Amity, and operated by Beniamin 
Mix, At Rexford's Flats the year l$l!> marked the construction of the 
tirst bridge. Upon the opening of the Erie canal other stores were 
opened to accommo*.late the increasing population. Among them were 
that of Isaiic Howarvl. who was succeedevl by Curtiss v^ Wakeman, Lack 
of water pv^wer prevented the building of mills, as a rule. 

The tiret church in the town was the Baptist church, referred to in a 
pnix-eding chapter, which was org-jinised in ITJUo. The second society 
formed was the Reformed church of Amity, which was org-anised in 
ISO^ as the •" Refonnei.1 Protestant Dutch church of Amity." The first 
elders were Jacobus Van Vranken and John Miller, and the first dea- 
cc>ns were Daniel F, Fort and Evert Van Vranken, The first house of 
worship Wiis erected in IStXJ, with Rev, Mr, Hjuxienburg as the first 
^wstor. In l§tV» the churches of Amity and Niskayuna engTAg\?d Rev, 
Thomas Romeyn as pwstor, building a joint parsonage at Amity, Mr. 



THE CANALS. I.V.) 

Romeyn's ministry extended over a period of twenty-one years.' The 
Methodist church at Groom's Comers was one of the first of that de- 
nomination founded north of the Mohawk river. The Methodist Epis- 
copal church at Joncsville was built in 182."). The society formed a 
part of a circuit comprising Ilalfmoon, Clifton Park and Galway.'' The 
M. K. church at Clifton Park village was formed about 18.'50. Services 
were suspended for a while, but preaching was again begun in 1843 by 
Rev. Henry Williams, and a house of worship built at an expense of 
$1,200. 

Little can lie said of the town of Providence in these days. The 
principal fact of historical interest appears to have been the building 
of the old Quaker meeting-hou.se in 1815, to take the place of the 
original edifice, which had been abandoned. The chief and almost 
sole occupation of the inhabitants has always been farming. 

THE (iREAT WATERWAYS. 

Ily far the most important enterprises undertaken in Saratoga county 
during this period — and the most important in the State of New York, 
from a commercial stand[)oint — were the construction of the great Erie 
and the Champlain canals. It was Governor George Clinton who first 
officially proposed, in 1792, that canals be constructed between the 
Hudson and Lake Ontario and the Hudson and Lake Champlain. 
Upon his recommendation legislative acts were pa.ssed organizing two 
canal companies — the Northern Inland Navigation Company and the 
Western Inland Lock Navigation Company. These companies were 
authorized to improve the navigation of the Hudson and Mohawk 
rivers, and to form connections between the upper waters of the Mo- 
hawk river, and Oneida and Ontario lakes, as well as between the 
Hudson river and Lake Champlain. .Such were the first steps toward 
a grand system of canals. The disaster which overtook the first-named 
company has been described in a preceding chapter. In later years it 
became the general belief that no enterprise of such magnitude could 
succeed without either State aid or complete State control, with the 
public moneys back of the project. 

It is entirely uncertain wlio originated the first idea of constructing a chain of 
water comnuinication through the State. All of the early efforts were directed to 

' A new church was erected in 1H71 and dedicated January IH, 1872. 
■■' This society orsrani-.ted as a separate cliurch in 1»12. In 1855 a new church was built at a 
cost o[ $1,000. This was considerably repaired in 18UT, 



160 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

effecting a passage through the Mohawk, Wood creek, Oneida lake and Oswego river 
to Lake Ontario. The western connection was sought by locking around Niagara 
Fulls. In 1800 Gouverneur Morris first suggested the idea of a direct canal from 
Lake Erie to the Hudson, through the centre of the State. His plan was to tap Lake 
Erie, and have a continuous slope from the lake to the high land that borders upon 
the Hudson and a series of locks thence to the river. In 1803 he stated the outline 
of his plan to the Surveyor-General, Simeon De Witt, who looked upon it as chimer- 
ical. The next year Mr. De Witt, in a conversation with James Geddes, then a land 
surveyor of Onondaga county, stated the plan of Mr. Morris as one of the irapracti-^ 
cable schemes which had been advanced. Mr. Geddes, however, looked at the mat- 
ter in a different light, and, after some little reflection, he concluded that the plan, 
with some modifications, was by far the best that had yet been suggested. He 
counseled with Jesse Hawley upon the subject and the latter, convinced of the feasi- 
bility of the project, wrote a series of papers which were published in the Genesee 
Messenger from October, 1807, to March, 1808. These essays were signed " Her- 
cules," and were the first ever printed in favor of the Erie canal. In 1808, Joshua 
Forraan, then a member of the Assembly, introduced a resolution for the survey of 
a canal route, to the end that Congress might be led to grant moneys for the con- 
struction of a canal. The sura of $600 was granted for the surveys under the direc- 
tion of the Surveyor-General. James Geddes was intrusted with this service, and 
was directed to level down from Oneida lake to the mouth of Salmon creek, to ascer- 
tain whether a canal could be opened from Oswego Falls to Lake Ontario and to 
survey the best route for a canal around Niagara Falls. He was also directed to 
survey a route eastward from Lake Erie to Genesee River, and thence to the waters 
flowing east into Seneca Lake. He finished this work and made a report showing 
the practicability of the last-named route and its great superiority over the others 
which had been proposed. This report at once excited general attention, and se- 
cured the influence of De Witt Clinton, then a member of the Senate, and many other 
prominent men. In 1810, commissioners, at the head of whom was De Witt Clinton, 
were appointed to explore a canal route through the centre of the State. On the 8th 
of April, 1811, an act was passed to provide for the improvement of the internal 
navigation of the State, and efforts were made to obtain aid from the General Gov- 
ernment, but without success. The report of the commissioners stated the impor- 
tance of this measure with such force and eloquence that a law was passed the next 
year continuing the commissioners, and authorizing them to borrow and deposit 
money, and take cessions of land, for the proposed canal, but the war suspended 
active operations. The project, however, continued to be discussed, and an act was 
passed on the 17th of April, 1816, providing for a definite survey. The canal was 
begun at Rome, July 4, 1817, and on the 23d of October, 1819, the first boat passed 
from Utica to Rome. 

The completion of the canal was celebrated by extraordinary civic and military 
ceremonies throughout the State, and especially in New York city, on the 4th of 
November 1835. As the first boat, with Governor Clinton on board, entered the 
canal at Buffalo, at 10 o'clock, (October 26,) a line of cannon, previously arranged a 
few miles apart, passed a signal along to Albany, and down the Hudson to Sandy 
Hook, from whence it was returned in a like manner. The signal was heard at New 
York, at 11.20. The flotilla with the Governor was everywhere greeted with en- 



THE CANALS. IC.l 

thusiastic rejoicing. Upon reaching New York it passed down to Sandy Hook, and 
the waters of the lake were mingled with those of the ocean with imposing cere- 
monies. 

The canal commissioners under whom the Erie and Champlain canals were con- 
structed, were Stephen Van Rensselaer, De Witt Clinton, Joseph Ellicott, Samuel 
Young and Myron Holley. Henry Seymonr was appointed in place of Ellicott in 
March, 1819, and William C. Bouck was added to the number in March, 1821. The 
chief engineers were James Geddes, of Onondaga county, and Benjamin Wright, 
. of Rome, neither of whom had ever seen a canal, or enjoyed means of acquiring a 
practical knowledge of engineering other than that obtained from surveying land. 
The precision with which their canal surveys were e.-cecuted, under the circum- 
stances, may be regarded as truly wonderful. Among the assistant engineers were 

Peacock, David Thomas, Nathan S. Roberts, David S. Bates, Canvass White, 

Davis Hurd, Noah Dennis, Charles T. Whippo, William Jerome, Henry G. Sargent, 
Frederick C. Mills, Isaac J. Thomas, Henry Farnam, Alfred Barrett, John Bates, 
William H. Price, John Hopkins and Seymour Skiff.' 

The canal was completed October 2G, 183o. As first constructed, it 
was three hundred and sixty-three miles long, twenty-eight feet wide 
at the bottom, forty feet wide at the top, and four feet deep. The 
locks were ninety feet long between the gates and fifteen feet wide. 
The original cost was $7, 143,789.86. The canal crosses the Mohawk 
river from Schenectady county at Rexford's Flats, in the town of Clif- 
ton Park, by means of an aqueduct. Thence it traverses the extreme 
southern parts of the towns of Clifton Park and Halfmoon, following 
the northern bank of the Mohawk as closely as practicable, recrossing 
that river into Albany county at Crescent. At the aqueduct at Rex- 
ford's Flats, twenty-six miles distant from Albany via the canal, and 
three hundred and twenty-six miles from Baffalo, the canal is about 
one hundred and seventy-five feet above the level of the sea. The 
canal was first enlarged in pursuance of a law passed May 11, 1835, and 
the work of improvement has been carried on steadily, with rare excep- 
tions, ever since. In 1895 the voters of the State appropriated, at the 
general election, the sum of $9,000,000 to pay for further improve- 
ments, including the deepening of the canal to a uniform depth of nine 
feet, but the appropriation was found insufficient after the most of the 
money had been expended. 

The Champlain canal follows the Hudson river along its west bank, 
or as near thereto as practicable, through the towns of Waterford, 
Halfmoon, Stillwater and Saratoga, crossing the Hudson into Wash- 
ington county about three-fourths of a mile north of the southern 

• Historical and Statistical Gazetteer of New York State. By J. H. French. 180U. 
U 



163 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

boundary of the town of Northumberland. It passes, in Saratoga 
county, through the villages of Waterford, fifty-five feet above sea 
level; Mechanicville, Stillwater, Wilbur's Basin, Coveville and .Schuy- 
lerville, one hundred feet above sea level, a total distance of twenty- 
six miles. The entire length of the canal from Albany to Whitehall is 
seventy-one miles. The highest point is at the Glens Falls feeder, one 
hundred and fifty feet above sea level. 

The work of constructing the Champlain canal was inaugurated June 
10, 1818, less than a year after the beginning of work upon the Erie 
canal. It was finished as far as Waterford November 28, 1822, and 
totally completed September 10, 1823. The original cost was $875,000, 
exclusive of the Glens Falls feeder. The canal was built of the same 
dimensions as the Erie, and has been greatly improved from time to 
time; but the expenditures of public money therefor have not been so 
great as for the improvement of the Erie canal. When the canal was 
first opened, slackwater navigation upon the Hudson was used eight 
miles above and three miles below Fort Miller, with a short canal and 
two locks around the falls at that place. The use of the channel of the 
Hudson is now entirely superseded by a canal along its bank, built in 
1827-28. This portion of the old canal was fed from the Hudson by 
means of a high and costly dam near Fort Edward; but this dam has 
given place to a feeder to a point above Glens Falls, which enters the 
canal at the summit level, one and a half miles northeast of Fort Ed- 
ward. In 1859-GO the locks were enlarged to a capacity 15^ by 100 
feet. 

SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS. 

The semi-centennial anniversary of the declaration of American in- 
dependence was celebrated July 4, 1826, by imposing and elaborate cere- 
monials at Ballston Spa and Schuylerville. At the former place there 
was a gorgeous parade, the principal feature of which was a float or 
car forty- two feet long and fourteen feet wide, called the Temple of 
Industry. This was intended to exhibit the industrial development of 
the country during the first half century of the nation. This car was 
drawn by thirteen yoke of oxen, representing the thirteen original 
States. Upon it were thirteen representatives of an equal number of 
the mechanical arts, each plying his vocation. While this parade was 
moving William Van Ness, representing the shoemaker's craft, made a 
pair of shoes for the president of the day, Hon. Samuel Young, then 



SEMI-CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS. 103 

speaker of the State Assembly. Another feature of the procession was 
a company of thirty-seven veterans of the Revolutionary war. Of this 
band, Jeremiah Pierson held aloft the Stars and Stripes, Lemuel Wil- 
cox carried a standard inscribed " Declaration of Independence," and 
John Whitehead bore another standard inscribed "Constitution of the 
United States." A corps of Union Cadets, composed of two uniformed 
and well drilled companies of students of Union college, was under 
command of Major Holland, a veteran of the war of 1812 and register 
of the college. The two companies comprising this corps were com- 
manded respectively by Captain Knox and Captain Jackson. 

After the parade services were held at the Baptist church at the head 
of Front street, on Milton avenue, Hon. Samuel Young presiding. 
Rev. Dr. Eliphalet Nott, president of Union College, opened the pro- 
ceedings with prayer, after which the Declaration of Independence was 
read by Anson Brown,' a young attorney of Ballston Spa. Hon. John 
W. Taylor, then speaker of the House of Representatives, followed 
with an eloquent oration, closing with remarks addressed personally to 
the assembled body of Revolutionary veterans, who arose in a body. 

At the close of these services the participants divided into two par- 
ties and were banqueted at the principal village hotels. The Union 
Cadets feasted at the Sans Souci hotel, while the toasts of the day were 
offered at the Village hotel. One of the toasts proposed on this occa- 
sion was as follows: 

" John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and Charles Carroll of Carrollton, 
the surviving signers of the Declaration of Independence. As the 
measure of their days, so is that of their fame, — overflowing." 

It is a peculiar coincidence — though unknown at the time by those 
who were enjoying the celebration and offering this toast to three of 
the nation's heroes — that while the festivities of the day were in prog- 
ress, and but a short time before this sentence had been uttered, both 
the illustrious Adams and Jefferson had passed to their eternal rest. 

The president of the day addressed the Union Cadets in complimen- 
tary phrases, to which Major Holland responded, proposing this toast: 
" The county of Saratoga — its hills, monuments of valor; its springs, 
resorts of fashion; its hamlets, signalized by patriots and statesmen." 
Two of the alumni of Union college complimented their alma mater 
and its president by these toasts: By Thomas Palmer — " Union college: 
Crevit, crescit, crescat." By Anson Brown — " The president of Union 

' He died whije serving as a representative in the 30tii Congress. 



IW OUR COVNTV AND ITS PEOPLE. 

college: Dignum laude virum musa vetal mori." Edward Watrous 
proposed this emphatic and unequivocal toast: " The Legitimates of 
Europe: May they be yoked, poked, and hoppled, cross-fettered, tied 
hand and foot, and turned out to browse on the pine plains of Old 
Saratoga! " 

Lyman B. Langworthy, then sheriff of Saratoga countj-, had general 
charge of this celebration, and the remainder of the committee of ar- 
rangements consisted of James ^lerrill, David Corey, William Clark, 
John Dix, Jeremiah Penfield, Charles Field, Alexander Russell, Robert 
Bennett, Roswell Herrick, David F. White, George W. Fish, Hiram Mid- 
dlebrook, Joseph Barker. David Herrick, SN'lvester Blood, Samuel R. 
Garrett and Abraham Middlebrook. 

The fiftieth anniversarj' of the birth of the American Republic was 
also celebrated at Schuylerville with appropriate ceremonies. Briga- 
dier-General De Ridder, a veteran of the war of lSr2, was mounted at 
the head of a troop of light-horse and other military companies. Philip 
Schuyler, a grandson of General Philip Schuyler of Revolutionary fame, 
had general charge of the celebration. On the grounds of old Fort 
Hardy a number of tables were set under canopies, to protect the guests 
from the rays of the sun, and here the participants in the celebration 
were banqueted. The oration was delivered in a grove near at hand 
by Rev. Hooper Cummings of Albany. A dozen or more Revolution- 
ary veterans sat on front seats, among them being John Ward, one of 
the body guard of General Schuyler, who was carried to Canada by the 
Tory Waltermeyer, when the latter attempted to abduct the general 
from his home in Albany. 

COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

The Saratoga County Medical society was organized at Ballston Spa 
in July, 1S06, by the election of these officers: 

President, Daaiel Ball; \-ice-president. William Patrick: secretary, John Steams; 
treasurer, Samuel Davis: censors, Elijah Porter. Asa C. Barney. Samuel Pitkin. 
Billy J. Clark, Ephraim Childs ; delegate to the New York State Medical Society, 
John Stearns. 

Among the early members of the society, beside those mentioned as 
officers, were Drs. Elisha Miles, William C. Lawrence, Thomas S. Lit- 
tlefield, Daniel Hicks, Alpheus Adams, Jesse Seymour, Grant Powells, 
Isaac Finch, Francis Pixley, Beroth Bullard, John H. Steel, Josiah 
Pulling, Nathan Thompson, Oliver Brisbin, Samuel Freeman, John D, 



EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. 165 

Bull, Henr>' Reynolds, William Tibbetts, Silas Wood, Abel Baldwin, 
Darius Johnson, George Burroughs, Isaac Youngs and Gideon Thomp- 
son. Since the earlier days of the society its members have included 
practically all the prominent physicians in Saratoga county. 

COUNTY BIBLE SOCIETY. 

The Saratoga County Bible society was organized August 24, 1815, 
nearly a year before the formation of the American Bible society, and 
only seven years later than the formation of the Philadelphia Bible so- 
ciety, the first organized in this country. At the first meeting, held at 
Ballston Spa, Rev. Samuel Blatchford, D.D., was chosen chairman, 
and Rev. Gilbert McMaster clerk. vSixty-eight persons subscribed to the 
constitution on the day of organization, and they elected these officers: 

President, Rev. Samuel Blatchford, D. D. ; vice-presidents, Rev. Dirck C. Lansing. 
Rev. James Mairs; corresponding secretary. Rev. Gilbert McMa.sters; recording 
secretary, Rev. Reuben Sears; treasurer, Elisha Powell; managers, Salmon Child, 
Greenfield; Parker Adams, Waterford; Isaac B. Payne, Northumberland: John 
Taylor, Charlton; Ezra Nash, Milton; (Jeorge Palmer, Stillwater; John W. Taylor, 
Ballston; John Danaing. Malta; Araoi Hawley. Moreau; Jeremy Rockwell, Hadley; 
William Foster, Galway : Rev. Abijah Peck, Halfmoon; James Brisbin. jr., Saratoga; 
Guert Van Schoonhoven, Waterford. 

This society, during its career, has numbered among its active 
workers some of the most prominent men of Saratoga county. Among 
its presidents have been Chancellor Reuben H. Walworth, Hon. John 
C. House, Hon. Roscius R. Kennedy, Lebbeus Booth, Hon. James B. 
McKean, Prof. Hiram A. Wilson, Hon. C. S. Lester, Hon. Abraham 
Marshall and others. Its members residing in various communities 
have organized town or village societies. The Ballston auxiliary was 
organized in the fall of 1815 by Hon. John W. Taylor and others. The 
Northumberland society was organized in 1831. 

THE EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. 

Unfortunately for the present generation, the early State and county 
records, like the colonial records, were not preserved with the care and 
accuracy which characterize the work of public officers of the present 
day. Doubtle.ss there was, at some time, a tolerably complete record 
of the military forces of Saratoga county during the early days; but if 
so, many of these valuable papers have been either lost or destroyed. 
Prior to the year 1804 few records were maintained. Those covering 



166 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the period from 1812 to 1830, including the second war with Great 
Britain, are for the most part entirely missing. The names which are 
given here have been taken from the records in the office of the adju- 
tant general at Albany, and though incomplete, are official, as far as 
they go. Probably no person would have the patience to make the 
practically endless research which would be entailed were the individual 
family records of the county to be studied ; and even should such re- 
search be instituted the result would not be official, and far from sat- 
isfactory. Furthermore it is a question for debate whether such in- 
formation would be sought for with eagerness sufficient to reward the 
person undertaking such a gigantic — perhaps lifelong — task. 

In the Revolutionary period we have a partial record of two " regi- 
ments " — called so by compliment— organized by inhabitants of Saratoga 
county. The first of these was known as the Twelfth Regiment of the 
New York State Militia. It was organized in the Half Moon and Balls- 
ton districts, and the commissions granted to the officers were dated 
October 20, 17?5 — about the beginning of the Revolution. Of this 
regiment the official records show these commissioned officers: 

Colonel, Jacobus Van Schoonhoven ; lieutenant-colonel, James Gordon ; first major, 
Ezekiel Taylor; second major, Andrew Mitchell; adjutant, David Rurasey; quarter- 
master, Simeon Fort. 

The six companies of which this regiment (more properly a battalion) 
was formed were officered upon their organization as follows: 

First Company. — Captain, Gerardus Cluet; first lieutenant, Albert Van De Wer- 
ker; second lieutenant, Robert Rowland; ensign, John Van De Werker. 

Second Company. — Captain, Nanning N. Visscher; first lieutenant, John Van 
Vranken ; second lieutenant, Nicholas Van Vranken ; ensign, Maas Van Vranken. 

Third Company. — Captain, Jeremiah Vincent; first lieutenant, Joseph Pinkney; 
second lieutenant, Peter Ferguson; ensign, Elias Van Steenburgh.. 

Fourth Company. — Captain, Joshua Losee; first lieutenant, Thomas Hicks; sec- 
ond lieutenant, Cornelius Villing; ensign, 01i\^er Wait. 

FiJ^th Company. — Captain, Tyrannus Collins; first lieutenant, William McCrea; 
second lieutenant, Benjamin Wood; ensign, David Clark. 

Sixth Company. — Captain, Stephen White; first lieutenant, Thomas Brown ; sec- 
ond lieutenant, Epenetus White; ensign, Nathan Raymond. 

This regiment and the Thirteenth Regiment of the New York vState 
Militia, whose officers were commissioned the same day, rallied to the 
defense of the country and did valiant service in the fight for independ- 
ence. The Thirteenth Regiment was organized among the inhabitants 
of the Saratoga district, and was comprised of seven companies. The 
first officers were as follows: 



EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. 167 

Field and Staff. — Colonel, John McCrea; lieutenant-colonel, Cornelius Van 
Veghten ; first major, Daniel Dickinson; second major, Jacob Van Schaick; adjutant, 
Archibald McNiel; quartermaster, John Vernor. 

First Company. — Captain, Peter Van Woert; first lieutenant, James Storns; sec- 
ond lieutenant, Jonathan Dunham ; ensign, Gerrit Van Buren. 

5('i:y«</ Ow//a«)'.— Captain, John Thompson; first lieutenant, Josiah Benjamin; 
second lieutenant, John Hunter; ensign, Joseph Row. 

'Third Company. — Captain, Henry O'Hara; first lieutenant, Benjamin Giles; sec- 
ond lieutenant, Jonathan Pettit; ensign, James Pettit. 

Fourth Company. — Captain, Ephraim Woodward; first lieutenant, Thomas Bal- 
lard; second lieutenant, Holturn Dunham; ensign, Abe Belknap. 

Fifth Compa?ty. — Captain, Ephraim Lake; first lieutenant, Samuel Sheldon; sec- 
ond lieutenant, Jabez Gage; ensign, Benajah .Sheldon. 

Si.vth Company. — Captain, Joseph Palmer; first lieutenant, John Davis; second 
lieutenant, Hezekiah Dunham; ensign, Alpheus Davis. 

Se7'i'nth Company. — Captain, David Jones; first lieutenant, Samuel Perry; second 
lieutenant, Peter Winne; ensign, Eli.sha Bentley. 

This practically completes the official knowledge of the militia of 
Saratoga coimty during the Revolutionary war. There is no official 
record of promotions, though, as we have seen in earlier chapters, 
some of these officers were promoted from time to time. Then, too, 
we have learned of a number of inhabitants who were officers in the 
patriot army during the Revolution, whose names do not appear in 
this official list. 

Below are given the names of the principal officers of the militia, 
with the years of their commissions, as far as can be learned, from 
1803 to the opening of the war of 1813: 

Ninth Brigade. 

Field and Staff.— 1S03, Asahel Porter, brigade inspector; 1804, Samuel Clark, 
brigadier general; 1808, David Rogers, brigade major; 1809, Daniel L. Van Ant- 
werp, brigade quartermaster; 1810, Daniel G. Garnsey, brigade major; 1811, Dudley 
Smith, brigade major: Leonard H. Gansevoort, brigade quartermaster. 

Captain.— ISQd, Daniel Rathbun. 

First Lieutenants. — 1803, James Garnsey; 1804, Joseph Hanchet. 

Second Lieutenants. — 1803, Joseph Hanchet, jr., 1804, Ebenezer Couch. 

The Ninth Brigade, which was composed of inhabitants of Saratoga 
county, consisted of six regiments — the Twenty-Fourth, the Thirty- 
Second, the Forty-First, the Fifty-Ninth, the vSixty-Third and the One 
Hundred and Forty- Fourth. The principal officers of these regiments, 
and the years in which they were commissioned, were as follows: 



1C8 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Forty-Fourth Regiment. 

Field and Staff. — 1804, Restcome Potter, lieutenant-colonel; Ezra Kellogg, first 
major; Isaac Gere, second major; Willard Trowbridge, adjutant; Pilgrim Durkee, 
second major; Stephen Sherman, first major; Stephen Potter, surgeon; 18(iG, Isaac 
Gere, lieutenant-colonel; John Rhodes, first major; Gershom Proctor, second major; 
1807, Nathan Thompson, surgeon; 1811, Amos Cook, adjutant; Earl Stimson, pay- 
master; 1812, Isaac Gere, lieutenant-colonel; Charles Rhodes, second major; Thad- 
deus Jewett, paymaster; John Rhodes, lieutenant-colonel; Eli Smith, fir.st major; 
Jonathan Delano, second major. 

C(7//rt/«j.— 1804, Eli Smith, Daniel D. Wolf, Amasa Sumner, Edward Shipman, 
Eleazer Smith, Amos Smith, Anson Fowler; 1805, Elihu B. Smith; 1806, Oliver 
Edwards, Peter Boss, Jonathan Smith, Othuiel Allen; 1807, Job Wells; 1808, Charles 
Rhodes; 1810, Phineas Warren, Jonathan Delano; 1811, Samuel Hawley. Ely 
Beecher, James Carpenter, James N. Smith, Benjamin Wright, Noah Sweet; 1813, 
Andrew Comstock, Michael Dunning, Earl Stimson, James N. Smith, Paul Edwards. 

Lieutenants. — 1804, Barnet Stillwell, Joseph Brewster, Jonathan Smith, Oliver 
Edwards, Othniel Allen, jr.. Job Wells, Elihu B. Smith, David Fortes, Nathaniel 
Adams; 1805, Elihu Dean; 1806. Charles Rhodes, Samuel Hollister, Abraham B. 
Walker, Miles Ely, Thomas Grimes; 1807, Michael Dunning, John Blair, James 
Smith, John Salisbury, William Randall; 1808, John Hamblen, James Carpenter, 
Henry Skinner; 1809, Jonathan Delano, John Hamilton, James Perry, Samuel 
Hawley; 1810, James Perry, Aaron Wheeler, Aaron Grisvvold; 1811, John Derrick, 
Noah Sweet, William Tripp, Paul Edwards, Andrew Comstock. Joseph Brewster, 
Philo Dauchy, Edmund Hewitt, jr.; 1813, John Brown, William Richardson, jr., 
Henry Warren, John Herrington, Joshua Finch. 

Thirty-Second Regiment. 

Field and Staff. — 1803, Uriah Gregory, lieutenant-colonel; John Nash, first major; 
Walter Patchin, second major; Jonathan Kellogg, quartermaster; 1805, Matthew 
McKinney, first major; Ebenezer S. Coon, second major; William Kingsley, ad- 
jutant; Jason Bannister, surgeon's mate; 1806, Ebenezer S. Coon, lieutenant-colonel; 
Eliud Davis, first major; Chauncey Belding, second major; 1807, Jason Bannister, 
surgeon; Eliud Davis, lieutenant-colonel; Chauncey Belding, first major; David 
Rogers, second major; 1808, Dudley Smith, second major; Edward Satterlee, ad- 
jutant; William Taylor, quartermaster; Eliud Davis, lieutenant-colonel; Chaun- 
cey Belding, first major; Edward Satterlee, adjutant; 1809, William Hawkins, jr., 
adjutant: 1810, David Rogers, lieutenant-colonel; Dudley Smith, first major; Jacob 
L. Sherwood, second major; Amos Smith, paymaster; 1811, Jacob L. Sherwood, 
first major, Zerah Beach, jr., second major; William H. Bridges, adjutant; 1812, 
Zerah Beach, jr., first major; John Holmes, jr., second major; Samuel Pitkin, surgeon. 

Captains. — 1803, Onesimus Hubbard, Jonathan Hunting, Chauncey Belding, Da- 
vid Rogers; 1805, Dudley Smith, Zerah Beach, jr., Jacob L. Sherwood, Alexander 
Ferguson; 1806, Levi Benedict, Samuel Belding; 1807, Ezekiel Horton ; 1808, Eze- 
kiel Horton, Silas Foster, Daniel Ostrom, Nathaniel Jennings; 1811, Jonathan Minor, 
Richard Freeman, James Williams, jr., John Holmes, jr., I.saac Smith, jr. ; 1813, 
Sherwood Leavitt, Philo Hurd, Sylvester Harmon, John Holmes, William Ely, Alex- 



EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. Ifi9 

ander Dunlap, Andrew Rich. David Gordon, Stephen R. Warren, James Smith, 
Isaac Curtis. 

Lieutenants. — 1803, Solomon Rowland, Lemuel Wilcox. Asa Beach, Samuel Bel- 
ding, Ezekiel Horton ; 180i5, Joseph Meach, Miles Beach. Aaron Angle, David Hub- 
bel ; 1806, Reuben Hollister, John Holmes; 1807, Silas Foster, Nathaniel Gunning, 
Daniel Ostrom, John Holmes, jr.; 1808, James Wilkins, jr., David Fowler, Isaac 
Smith, jr., Philo Hurd, Sylvester Harmon; 1809, Jonathan Minor; 1810. David Gor- 
don, James Smith, William Ely, Andrew Ritchie, Richard Freeman; 1811. Stephen 
R. Warren, Alexander Dunlap. Benjamin H. Burnet, John Bell ; 1812, Mansfield 
Barlow, Samuel Richards, John Ferguson, Joel Sherwood, Isaac Curtis. John L. Lu- 
ther, Seth Kirby, jr., Henry Miller. 

Forty-First Regiment. 

j'v>/^ <?«a' ^Vf!^.— Samuel Clark, lieutenant-colonel; 1804, Deliverance Andrews, 
lieutenant-colonel; John Dunning, first major; Robert Hunter, second major; 1806, 
Pontius Hooper, adjutant; 1807, Reuben Smith, quartermaster; John Tuttle, pay- 
master; 1808, George Palmer, jr., adjutant; 1809, Elijah W. Abbott, adjutant; Will- 
iam Fellows, quartermaster; 1810, John Dunning, lieutenant-colonel; Robert Hunter, 
first major; Reuben Wood worth, second major; John W. Patrick, adjutant ; Ephraim 
Child, surgeon; Danforth Shuraway, surgeon's mate; Peter Andrews, paymaster; 
1811. Reuben Woodworth. first major; Lawrence Hooper, second major; 1813, Law- 
rence Hooper, first major; Coleman Gates, second major. 

Captains. — 1803, Eusebius Matthews, Fulix Fitzsiramons; 1804, Samuel Cooper, 
Amos Hodgman, Noah Gates, Lawrence Hooper; 1806, Richard Dunning, Dean 
Chase; 1807, Samuel Clark, jr., Selah Horsford, Joseph Wilbur; 1808, Coleman Gates; 

1810, David G. Keeler, John Montgomery. Daniel Weeks; 1811, Patrick Parks, Ste- 
phen Valentine. Peter Fort. Edward Col well. John Wilcox, David Benedict; 1813, 
William Dunning, John Weeks, Noadiah Moody. 

Lieutenants. — 1803. George Peck. John Barber. Ashbel Horsford, Lawrence 
Hooper; 1804. Daniel Cole. John Montgomery, Abraham Lathrop, Pontius Hooper; 
1805, Joseph Wilbur; 1806, Coleman Gates, John Gilbert, Robert Montgomery; 1807, 
Daniel Weeks, Goodrich Keeler, John Wilcox, jr., Henry Curtis; 1808, William Dun- 
ning; 1810, William Strang, jr , Noadiah Moody, Stephen Valentine, Zerah Wilbur; 

1811, Reuben Bidwell, Lewis Smith, Robert Crawford, Jonas Olmsted, William 
Cooper, Macbivel Andrews; 1813, Moses Landon, David Scidmore, Ira Betts, Ger- 
ard us Downey. 

Sixrv-TiiiKi) Rkgimknt. 

Field and Staff. — Thomas Rogers, lieutenant-colonel; 1804, Abel Colwell, adju- 
tant; 1805, Nicholas W. Angle, adjutant; Thomas Littleton, surgeon; Billy J. Clark, 
surgeon's mate; 1806. Nicholas W. Angle, adjutant; 1803. Jesse Billing, quartermas- 
ter; Zerah Barnes, paymaster; 1810, John M. Berry, first major; Malcolm Crofoot, 
second major; Daniel Hicks, surgeon's mate; 1811. Billy J Clark, surgeon; 1812, 
James Burnham, second major; Henry Reynolds, surgeon's mate; Jeremiah Ter- 
hune, adjutant. 

Captains — 1803. Jonah Mead, John Thompson. Asa Welsh, James Milligan, Wal- 
ter Hewitt; 1804, James Burnham, Harmanus Van Veghten, Philip Delano; 1805, 



170 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

David Tillotson, John Pettit; 1806, Harmon Gansevoort, John S. Taylor, Luke Fen- 
ton, Ebenezer Brown; 1808, Jacob Dennis, Thomas Lang, Thomas Reed, Wm. 
Burnham; 1810, Seth Perry; 1811, Wm. Ross; 1813, Selah Bishop, Daniel Finch, 
Daniel Lindsay, James Mott. 

Lieutenants. — 1803, John Pettit, James Vandewerker, Thomas Reed, Seth Perry, 
jr., Josiah St. John, John J. Taylor; 1804, Selah Bishop, Walter Van Veghten, Sol- 
omon Dunham, Ebenezer Brown; 1805, Abel Caldwell, Eldad Garnsey; 1806, Wm. 
Harris, jr., Peter Butler, Samuel Ludlum, Joseph Rockwell; 1809, Wm. Wilcox, 
Wm. Chub, Daniel French, John Payne, Wm. Smith; 1810, Dudley Emerson, Sam- 
uel Cripton; 1811, Wm. Ross, Samuel Crippen, Wm. Wilcox, Daniel Lindsay; 1812, 
Elijah Dunham, Wm. Kings, David Patterson, John McDowell, Abraham Bennett, 
Josiah Perry, jr. 

Fl I'T Y-N I NTH Rr.r. LMENT. 

Field aiui Stuff. — Rufus Price, lieutenant-colonel; 1803, Isaac Young, second 
major; 1804, A.sa C. Barney, surgeon; 1805, Gideon Goodrich, lieutenant-colonel; 
John Prior, first major; Samuel Bailey, second major; Daniel Hicks, surgeon's mate; 
1806, Joshua Swan, paymaster; 1808, Howell Gardner, adjutant; Abel Baldwin, 
surgeon's mate; 1809, Isaac Young, quartermaster; 1810, John Prior, lieutenant- 
colonel; Samuel Bailey, first major; John Bockes, second major; 1813, Walter 
Hewit, second major; Darius Johnson, surgeon's mate. 

Captains.— \m%, Abel Deuel; 1804, Eli Couch; 1805, Caleb Bailey, George Peck, 
Ezra Starr, Wm. G. Boss, Wm. Waterbury; 1807, Samuel Anable; 1809, Lewis 
Scott, Asher Taylor, Giles Fitch; 1811, George H. Benhain, Jacob Kellogg, John 
Smith, jr.; 1813, Aaron Hale, jr., Wm. Scofield. Joseph Morehouse, jr., Alsop Weed. 

Ltezitenants. — 1803, Amos Smith, Stephen Seamans; 1805, Lewis Scott, Isaac 
Darrow, Aaron Hale, jr., Wm. Waterbury; 1806, Perez Billings, Isaac Van Austin, 
Wm. Scofield, Joseph Morehouse, Samuel Anable; 1807. John Ladue, John Billings, 
Barzillai Richmond; 1808. George Eighmy; 1809, Lotus Watson, John King, Zacha- 
riah Curtis, Isaac Van Ostrand, David Bockes; 1810, George H. Benham, John 
Smith, jr., Darius Wright. Abner Medbery; 1811, Edward Gilman, Alsop Weed, 
Burr Hendrick; 1812, Potter Johnson, Nathaniel Ingerson, Wm. W. Deake, Jona- 
than Kellogg, Nicholas Carpenter. 

One Hundred and Fourtv-Fourth Regiment. 

Field and Staff. — Hezekiah Ketchum, lieutenant-colonel; 1803, Gerardus Clute, 
second major; Joseph Ketchum, adjutant; 1805, John Stearns, surgeon; Elijah 
Porter, surgeon's mate; 1806, John Haswell, adjutant; Henry Ten Broeck, second 
major; Henry Fanning, paymaster; 1808, Henry Fanning, quartermaster; Joshua 
Mandeville, paymaster; 1810, Henry Bailey, second major; 1811, Samuel Stewart, 
second major; Nathan Bailey, adjutant; George W. Ten Broeck, quartermaster; 
Samuel D. Lockwood, paymaster; Elijah Porter, surgeon; John Haight, surgeon's 
mate; 1812, Samuel G. Huntington, second major; Wm. McDonald, paymaster. 

Captains. — 1803, Samuel Stewart, Benjamin Mix, Jacobus Rosecrans, John Mow, 
Christian Sackrider; 1805, Joseph Peck, Nathan Garnsey; 1806, Joseph Ketchum, 
Wm. Comstock, Adam I. Van Vranken, Samual Weldon; 1809, Cornelius C. Van 
Santford; 1810, Andrew Emigh ; 1811, Nathan Bailey, Joshua Mandeville, Samuel 



EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. 171 

Demarest, Wm. Neff, jr., Jonathan Irish, Ephraim Knuwlton ; 1812, Anthony S. 
Badgely, Andrew Frasier. 

Lieutenants. — -1803, James Weldon. Joseph Peck, Peter Davis, Jason Gillespie; 
1805, Samuel Demarest, Andrew Emigh, John Cramer, Gideon G. Degraff, John 
Barnes; 1806, Benjamin Hicks, Wm. Neff, David Garnsey, Ephraim Knowlton, 
Jonathan Irish; 1808, Francis Drake, Cornelius C. Van Santford ; 1809, Jacob 
Pudney; 1810, Anthony S. Badgely; 1811, Felix Tracy, Asahel Philo, Tertullus 
Frost, John Nestle, Garret J. Van Vranken, Smith Irish, Frederick Clements; 1813, 
Laurence Travers, Benjamin Chamberlain, John Stewart, Silas Sweetland, David 
Ashe, Wm. Gates. 

Ca\ AI.K^ . 

The only cavalry organization in the county during this period, as 
far as the records show, was the First Squadron of the Seventh Cavalry 
Regiment, which probably included all the cavalry in the county. The 
officers were as follows. 

Field Officers. — 1812. Henry Edson, adjutant; Daniel Dickinson, quartermaster; 
Wm. Robards, major; Isaac Q. Carpenter, adjutant. 

Captains. — 1811, Daniel Montgomery, John Linnendoll, Daniel Starr; 1812, Sidney 
Berry, jr., Curtis Burton, Noah Vibbert. Nathan Rogers, John Sayles. 

Lieutenants. — 1811, Daniel Dickinson, Isaac Q. Carpenter, Sidney Berry, jr., 
George Reynolds, jr., Curtis Burton, Parker Manning, Henry Duel, Chas. Foster; 
1812, Henry Duel, James Meeker, Isaac Q. Carpenter, John Sayles. George Rey- 
nolds, Seth Pope, Parker Manning, Samuel Bacon, Stephen Swan, Elijah E. Smith, 
Hezekiah Reynolds, Jeremiah Rundle. 

Artillery. 

The appointments for the Second Battalion of the Fourth Regiment 
of Artillery are given below. This battalion appears to be entered in 
the office of the adjutant general as a part of the Fifth Regiment about 
1810, when it consisted of the artillery in the counties of Saratoga, 
Montgomery and Schoharie; 

Field and Staffi— ^805, Amos Potter, second major; 1809, Kiah Harnden, pay- 
master. 

Captains. — 1805, Solomon Day, Cornelius Whitney, James Hawley; 1806 Joseph 
I. Green; 1807, Lott Wood, James Garnsey; 1809, David Richardson; 1810, Joseph 
Ketchum; 1811, David Waterman, Simeon Sammons, Samuel Drake; 1812, Thomas 
Mackin. jr. 

Lieutenants. — 1805, Israel Hand, Butler Beckvvith, John Savage, John Baker, 
Isaac Phelps, jr., Abner Stone, George W. McCracken ; 1806, John M. Thompson, 
Aaron Waters, Ebenezer Rice, Robert Archibald ; 1807, Wm. Van Kark, Lemon Foot, 
Walter Reed, Solomon Warner, Thomas Talmage, Peter Roe; 1809, Absalom Daley, 
Henry Harris, Abel Foster; 1810, Francis Drake, Jesse Tracy; 1811, Chauncey Garn- 
sey, Hiram Mosher, Jacob Snyder. John B. Miller, Wm. H. Satterlee, Ely Foster, 



172 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Peter Sternberg, Wm. Fowler; 1813, \Vm. H. Satterlee, John Yatman, John G. Mur- 
ray, Nathaniel Stewart, Jessup Raymond, John Eddy, Silas Wood. 

The appointments for the Saratoga County Battalion, which after- 
ward was organized as the One Hundred and Sixty-sixth Regiment of 
Artillery, were as follows: 

Field and SiaJ'.^lSOG. George Taylor, major; 1809, John Cornwall, adjutant; 
1810, Wm. Leavens,' second major; Ira Woodworth,- paymaster; 1812, Levi Scovill, 
major; Avery Benedict, surgeon; Willard Leavens,' quartermaster; Isaac Wood- 
worth,' paymaster. 

Ca/>/ams.~1806, Daniel Hunt; 1807, Daniel Church. John Lindsay; 1809, David 
Walker; 1810, Jcseph Rockwell, Ira Heath; 1812, Peter Butler. 

Lieuiena»/s.^l806, David Walker; 1807, Gideon Orton; 1809, Wm. Johnson, Ira 
Heath, Jqhu Taylor; 1810, Luke Johnson, Lawrence Barber; 1812, Artemus Aldrich, 
David Hemstreet. 

Other Officers. 

There is a hiatus in the records from 1812 to 1830. From 1830 to 
1832 commissions were issued to the following militia officers in Sara- 
toga county: 

In 1830. — October 30, Egbert C. No.Kon, Halfmoon, fir.st lieutenant. First Artillery, 
Third Brigade, Second Division; Joel Gould, Clifton Park, captain, First Artillery; 
November 20. Gilbert Purdy, Saratoga, captain, Sixty-third Infantry, Fifty-first Bri- 
gade, Fifteenth Division; Leonard Adams. Wilton, lieutenant. Sixty-third Infantry ; 
James McCreedy, Saratoga, ensign. Sixty-third Infantry ; August 7, Lemon A. 
Grippin, Corinth, ensign. One Hundred and Sixty-sixth Infantry, Fifty-first Brigade, 
Fifteenth Division; Alfred Mallory, surgeon's mate. One Hundred and Sixty-.'vixth 
Infantry; August 14. Francis Milliman, lieutenant. Twenty- fourth Infantry, Fifty- 
first Brigade, Fifteenth Division; Ira Swan, ensign, Twenty-fourth Infantry ; August 
4, John S. Andrews, Milton, major. Seventh Cavalry, Third Brigade, First Divis- 
ion; December 10, Henry C. Rice, Stillwater, captain. Forty-first Regiment; No- 
vember 11, Gilbert Purdy, Saratoga, captain; Leonard Adams, Wilton, lieutenant; 
James McCreedy, Saratoga, ensign; September 2, Thomas C. Hale, ensign. Fifty- 
ninth Regiment. 

In 1831. — February 3, William Fuller, Ballston. captain. Thirty-second Cavalry, 
Ninth Brigade, Fifteenth Division; Isaiah Blood, Ballston, lieutenant. Thirty-second 
Cavalry; Samuel Irish, Saratoga, ensign. Thirty-second Cavalry; February 19, Jo- 
seph W. Wood, Ballston, captain. Thirty-second Cavalry; Samuel Rue, BalUton, 
lieutenant. Thirty second Cavalry; William D. F. Jennings, Ballston, ensign. Thir- 
ty-second Cavalry; April 30, Aaron R. Pattison, Ballston Spa, colonel. Thirty-second 
Cavalry; Archibald Spier, jr. , Ballston, lieutenant-colonel, Thirty-second Cavalry; 
James A. Brinkerhoff, Ballston, major, Thirtj'-second Cavalry; Samuel Irish, 
Milton, lieutenant. Thirty-second Cavalry; Ira Howell, Ballston Spa, ensign, 
Thirtj'-second Cavalry; Isaiah Blood, Milton, captain. Thirty-second Cavalrj-; 

' Probably the same person. '^ Frubably the same person. 



EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. 173 

Daniel P. Wakeman, Ballston Spa, captain. Thirty-second Cavalry; May 7, John 
Penfield, Ballston, captain, Seventh Cavalry; Elijah W. Weed, Saratoga, first 
lieutenant. Seventh Cavalry; Clement Patchin, Milton, second lieutenant. Sev- 
enth Cavalry; Hiram Loomis, Milton, cornet. Seventh Cavalry; June 1, Thomas 
M. Burtis, Saratoga Springs, paymaster, Seventh Cavalry; April 23, Thomas L. 
Hewitt, GaUva}', ensign. Twenty-fourth Regiment; June 4, George Hanford, Gal- 
way, major. Separate Battalion Riflemen; July 4. John Shurter, Malta, captain, 
Forty-first Regiment, Ninth Brigade. Fifteenth Division; Elisha D. Miller, Ballston, 
lieutenant, Fortj'-first Regiment; Hiram Hutchinson, Malta, ensign. Forty-first 
Regiment; July 2, Henry Van Duzen, Clifton Parli, captain. One Hundred and For- 
ty-fourth Regiment, Ninth Brigade; George Peck, CUfton Park, lieutenant. One 
Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment; Lewis E. Sheldon, Clifton Park, ensign. One 
Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment; September 30, Lemuel Spier, Ballston, sur- 
geon. Thirty-second Regiment; September 10, Jesse Morey, Ballston, captain. Thir- 
ty-second Regiment ; September 3, Ephraim Hill, Saratoga, ensign ; September 28, 
Chauncey D. Buel, Saratoga, surgeon's mate; November 13, Henry D. Chapman, 
Saratoga, colonel; September 14, Clark Tabor, Providence, captain; Pardon Soule, 
Providence, lieutenant; Huestin McMullen, Providence, ensign; September 24, 
Philip James, Galway, captain; Richard M. Livingston, jr., Galway, lieutenant; 
John H. Dingman, Galway, ensign; November 13, Samuel Lewis, Northumberland, 
lieutenant-colonel; Henry Holmes, Saratoga, major; October 29, Rensselaer Thomp- 
son, Moreau, captain; Charles A. Sill. Moreau, lieutenant; Richard Davenport, Mo- 
reau, ensign; August 37, Benjamin F. Prior, Greenfield, captain; October 5, James 
A. Swartwout. Wilton, ensign; August 27, Rensselaer Ballon. Greenfield, lieutenant; 
Alvin Day, Greenfield, ensign; October 7, Isaac Ambler, Greenfield, quartermaster; 
September 3, Uriah B. Couch, Milton, lieutenant; Charles M. L. Andrus, Milton, 
ensign; John Potter, Milton, captain; Isaac K. Frink, Milton, lieutenant; Porter W. 
Earl, Milton, ensign; October 8, Daniel D. A. Green, Milton, lieutenant-colonel; 
October 29, Uriah B. Couch, Milton, captain; Charles M. L. Andrus, Milton, lieuten- 
ant; Benjamin M. Loomis, Milton, ensign; December 31. Gordon Jenkins, Hadley, 
captain; Jefferson Jeffers, Hadley, ensign ; November 20, Ephraim Hill, Saratoga, 
captain; Giles B. Slocum, Saratoga, lieutenant; James A. Granger, Saratoga, en- 
sign; December 10, Stephen Welch, 2d, Schuylerville, captain, Orra Warner, Mo- 
reau, first lieutenant; John W. Vandenburgh, .Saratoga, second lieutenant ; Septem- 
ber 10, Isaac E. Garnsey, Clifton Park, captain; William Golden, Ballston, first 
lieutenant; John Cole, Stillwater, second lieutenant; August 27, David T. Zimmer- 
man, Stillwater, captain; John A. J. Countryman, Stillwater, first lieutenant; Cor- 
nelius Cronkhite, Stillwater, second lieutenant ; September 10, William McGregor, 
jr., Wilton, quartermaster; William H. Walton, Greenfield, paymaster. 

In 1832.^March 10, Lodewick P. Shew, Providence, colonel; John S. Green, 
Galway, ensign; Jonathan Bristol, Edinburgh, captain ; March 31, George W. Down- 
ing, Edinburgh, lieutenant; George B. Robinson, Edinburgh, ensign; April 16, 
Henry L. Swartwout, Wilton, quartermaster; March 10, Jonathan Edgecomb, Gal- 
way, major; March 31, Seth Warren, Galway, captain; Thomas L. Hewitt, Galway, 
lieutenant; Solomon EUithorp, Edinburgh, lieutenant-colonel; May 13, Archibald 
Spier, Ballston Spa, colonel; William Fuller, Ballston, lieutenant-colonel; Isaiah 
Blood, Milton, major; May 10, Joshua T. Blanchard, Saratoga Springs, quarter- 



174 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

master, cavalry; April 38, Andrew Taylor, Halfmoon, first lieutenant, cavalry; Chris- 
topher Snyder, Halfmoon, second lieutenant, cavalry; Mina Morse, Halfmoon, cor- 
net, cavalry; Duncan McMasters, Charlton, captain; William Fowler, Charlton, 
lieutenant ; Robert Gilchrist, Charlton, ensign ; August 18, Wright I. Esmond, Half- 
moon, captain; William Gates, jr., Halfmoon, lieutenant; Abraham James, Half- 
moon, ensign; August 20, Shadrach Burlison, Waterford. captain; Harry B. Scott, 
Waterford, lieutenant; Mason K. Eastman, Waterford, ensign; April 13, John R. 
McGregor, Wilton, aid-de-camp; July 7, Samuel Rice, Ballston, captain ; A. R. Red- 
field, Ballston, lieutenant; James Wakeman, Ballston, ensign; June 30, Hiram 
Barras, Greenfield, ensign; Roswell Finch, Saratoga, ensign; Henry W. Peck. Sar- 
atoga, first lieutenant; Robert Burdee, Saratoga, second lieutenant; Henry W. 
Dennis, Saratoga, ensign; June 9, Alvah Dake, Greenfield, second lieutenant; Levi 
B. Alcott, Greenfield, ensign; March 9, William Stewart, Edinburgh, captain ; Orson 
Wright. Edinburgh, lieutenant; August 31, Azariah E. Stimson, Galway, adjutant; 
John O. Ellithorp, Edinburgh, quartermaster; September 14, Clark Tabor, Prov- 
idence, captam ; Pardon Soule, Providence, lieutenant. 

WAR OF 1812. 

The war of 1813 caused little interrtiption in the development of the 
county, though many of its inhabitants, some of whom had fought in the 
Revolution, enlisted in the American army and took up arms against Great 
Britain. The .Saratoga brigade of cavalry united with the companies or- 
ganized in Rensselaer county, and on September 19, 1813, they left Troy 
for the Lake Champlain region. They were accompanied as far as 
Waterford by Governor Tompkins in person, and proceeded from there 
to Plattsburgh, where they participated in the victory over the British 
at that point. Early in 1813 many men from this county who had not 
already enlisted in the home companies, joined General John E. Wool's 
command being organized at Troy, and were sent to the front, where 
they served with honor. December 3, 1814, most of those who had fought 
in that war joined the Rensselaer and Albany county veterans in giving 
an enthusiastic reception to Commodore Thomas MacDonough, whose 
flotilla had achieved a complete and glorious victory over the British fleet 
on Lake Champlain. It is to be regretted that no complete ofljcial records 
of the men who served in this war are extant. As far as can be learned 
from meagre but authentic sources, however, the following enlisted 
from the various towns of the county, some of the names being those 
of members of the State militia which appear in preceding pages: 

Saratoga Springs. Ham, Danforth. 

Milton. — Captain Reuben Westcott, Freeman Thomas, Cornelius Scherraerhorn, 
Daniel Beach, W. J. StilUvell, Oliver Whitehead, John Wheeler, Timothy Bailey, 
Alvah Robertson. 



EARLY MILITARY ROLLS. 175 

Ballston. — Captain Isaac Curtis, Chester Clapp, Silas Smith, Wm. Evans, S. Cur- 
tis, Lewis Miller. 

Saratoga. — Captain James Mott, Isaac Ackerman, Wra. Clements, George Strover, 
Henry D. Chapman, Nathaniel Somes, Elisha Phillips, Justus Fuller, Martin Rogers, 
Archibald Fuller, Wm. Ward, Samuel Eldredge, Nicholas Viele, John Rogers, 
James Rogers. 

Stillwater. — James Hodgman, Lieut. John R. Myers, David C. Flagler, Wm. 
Baker, Peter Baker, Wm. Scouten, James McNeal, Thomas Elms, Daniel Hewett, 
jr., Samuel Edmonds. John Tompkins, David Blood. 

Charlton. — Captain John Ferguson, Joseph Beach, James Ritchie, Lawrence Gar- 
diner, Jared Smith, Delsa Benjamin, Ezra Seeley, Swart, Captain David Gordon, 

Major Millard, Surgeon David Low, Jonas Crane, Thomas Kirby, Asher Cox, Joseph 
Watkins. 

Waterford. — Tennis Waldron, Nelson, Benjamin Goewey, Wm. Van Every, 

Rubens Ryms, James Wilson, Daniel Guire, John R. Maxiber, George Finan, 
George Musgrave, Philip Argersinger, Rusk Norway. Perth Mudhuling, Wm. Car- 
pensy, George Nichols, John Ives, Collins, Kline, Kuth. 

Halfmoon. — Lieut. -Col. Shubael Taylor, Gilbert Williams, Samuel Coon, Oliver 
Waite, G. A. Robinson, Elijah Brown, Peter Van Santford, Isaac M. Deyoe, Wra. 
Smith, James Houghtaling, Ezra Crittenden, John Potts, Jeremiah Francisco, Ger- 
man Van Voorhees, Henry Soper, Esau Wilson, Thos. Follett. 

Galway. — Ebenezer Olmstead, John McDonald, Wheeler Bradley. 

Edinburgh. — Capt. John Gordon, Lieut. John Brown, Sergt. Silas Washburne, Col. 
Godfrey Shew, John Akley, Ananias Akley, Wm. Van Avery, Daniel Buckalow, 
Myron White, Nathaniel Robinson, Ephraim Potter, Wm. Hill, Solomon Scott. 
James Rhodes, Stephen White. 

Malta. — Adjt. Gould Morehouse, Seneca Hall, Daniel D. Tompkins, Eli Dunning, 
Peter Dunn, Barney Vail, John Story, John Van Arnam, Henry Pell. 

Corinth. — Peleg Eddy, Daniel Cole, Thomas Wheaton. 

Northumberland. — Adjutant Jeremiah Terhune, Charles McCreedy, Gamaliel Mc- 
Creedy, Jeremiah McCreedy, William McCurdy (or McCreedy), William Coffinger, 
Higgins Coffinger, Joseph Stevens, Osborne. 

Hadley. — John Gilbert, James De Long, Rufus Wells, Harry Burke, Squire 
Lawton. 

Moreau. — James Coburn, Samuel Putnam, Bloster Merritt, Tompkins, 

Solomon Parks, Captain Elisha Danford, Truman Wilcox. 

Greenfield. — None known. 

Day. — Moses Colson, William Colson, jr., Daniel Fraker, Joseph Flansburgh, 
Thomas Totman, Zabin Shippy, Arnold Paul. 

Wilton. ^Colonel Seth Perry, Captain Jason Adams, Caleb Perry, James Woodard, 
Benedict Woodard, Henry Strong, Drew Laing. 

Clifton Park. — Henry Palmer, James Groom, Adam R. Van Vranken, Michael 
Doty, John Millins, Peter Doty, Solomon C. Peck, Everett Hawley, Richard Spire, 
David Wiltsie, Andrew Evans, Jeremiah Clute, Timothy Doty, Deacon Palmer. 

Providence. — None known. 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



CHAPTER X. 

Construction of the Railroad from Schenectady to Saratoga Springs, the First in 
Saratoga County — The Rensselaer and Saratoga Road Built Soon After — Rivalry 
Between the Two Concerns — Other Roads Merged in the Rensselaer and Saratoga 
— All Pass Under the Control of the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company — The 
Old Albany, Vermont and Canada — The Adirondack — The Fitchburg and the Mount 
McGregor Lines — Projected Lines Which Were Never Constructed — Modern Elec- 
tric Railways in Saratoga County. 

As the opening of the Erie and Champlain canals marked a new era 
in the history of Saratoga county, so also did the construction of the 
first railroad extending into the county. 

February IG, 1831, the State Legislature gratited a charter to the 
Saratoga and Schenectady Railroad company, which was empowered to 
construct and maintain a steam railroad between Schenectady and Sara- 
toga Springs, passing through the village of Ballston Spa. The incor- 
porators named in the act were Henry Walton, John Clarke, William 
A. Langworthy, John H. Steele, Miles Beach, Gideon W. Davison, 
Rockwell Putnam, and " such other persons as shall associate with them 
for that purpose." The road was directed by law to be either a single 
or double track, to pass as nearly as practicable through the centre of 
of the village of Ballston Spa. The charter was for fifty years. 
Churchill C. Camberling, Walter Bowne, Henry Walton, John Clarke, 
Samuel Young, Thomas Palmer, Daniel J. Toll, John J. De Graff, 
William James, James Stevenson and John Townsend were designated 
as commissioners to receive subscriptions to the capital stock of $150,- 
000. The work of construction was begun during the spring of 1831, 
and the road was opened for traffic as far north as Ballston Spa July 
12, 1832. But it was not completed to Saratoga Springs until the fol- 
lowing year. The early business of the road was so limited that opera- 
tions frequently ceased entirely in the winter season, the company 
carrying such passengers as might apply for passage by horse and 
sleigh. It was not until the road was leased to the Rensselaer and 
Saratoga Railroad company that its business assumed profitable pro- 
portions. 



RAILROADS-. 177 

In an old book containing brief sketches of the various railroads in 
the United States, constructed or projected, published about 1833 by 
an engineer, the following description of this railroad appears:' 

Saratoga and Schenectady Rah.kdad. — This road was commenced the 1st of 
September, 1831, and was opened for travelling 12th July, 1833, except a short dis- 
tance at Ballston, which was completed m April, 1833. Its length is 31 1-3 miles. 
Its cost, $217,201.22, exclusive of the land it occupies, and some trifling agencies 
and travelling apparatus, but including everything, when in complete operation, 
$297,237. About 3 miles of it is put down on stone foundation. Trenches were dug 
3 1-13 by 3 1-3 feet, and filled with broken stone, closely rammed; and upon this 
square blocks of about 2 cubic feet were placed, 3 feet from centre to centre. On 
these stone blocks cast iron chairs are placed to receive the wooden rails, upon which 
is the iron plate. Cross-ties of timber secure the rails from spreading. The re- 
mainder of the road is laid upon longitudinal sills, upon which the sleepers rest, 
notched on both sides, to secure the sills in their place, and also to receive the wood 
rail, 'upon which rests the iron plate, as in the first part of the road. It has but a 
single track, with turn-outs. The road is mostly level, and in no case does the in- 
clination exceed 16 feet to the mile. Steam power is used to great advantage, and 
the net income of the road from April 1, 1833, to February, 1834, was within a frac- 
tion of 10 per cent, upon its capital. It will be much more profitable when the Sar- 
atoga and Fort Edward road shall be completed, so as to bring the travel from the 
north via Saratoga to Albany. Chartered in 1831. 

About the time of the construction of this road the trade of Northern 
New York, especially of Saratoga and Washington counties, was 
assuming considerable proportions. The people of Albany already had 
built a railroad from Albany to Schenectady, the second enterprise of 
the kind in the United States, and in order to draw this northern trade 
from Troy, to which it most naturally would flow, the inhabitants of 
Albany attempted to di\-ert it from that channel by the construction of 
the road from Schenectady to Saratoga Springs. 

Appreciating the inotives of the rival city of Albany, the business 
men of Troy at once set to work to secure a charter for a new road 
from Troy to Ballston Spa, a distance of twenty-six miles. This fran- 
chise was granted them April 14, 1832, the articles Of incorporation 
naming as the first directors George Griswold, John Cramer, Elisha 
Tibbits, John Knickerbacker, Richard P. Hart, Townsend McCoun, 
Nathan Warren, Stephen Warren, Le Grand Cannon, George Vail, 
Moses Williams, John P. Cushman and John Paine. John Knicker- 
backer of Waterford, John House, also of Waterford, Stephen Warren, 

* A copy of this book is now in possession of William Buchanan, superintendent of motive 
power and rolling stock of the N. Y. C. & H. K. R. K. 
12 



178 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

William Pierce, William Haight, James Cook and Joel Lee of Ballston 
Spa were designated as commissioners to open books of subscription. 
Work upon the road was begun the next year, and October 6, 1835, the 
first passenger train, north bound, left Troy. The northern terminus 
of the road was near the present depot in Ballston Spa, and the south- 
ern terminus was at No. 10 First street, Troy. 

While this road extended as far north as Ballston Spa only, the 
Schenectady and Saratoga railroad had been built as far north as Sara- 
toga Springs, the latter road thereby securing a monopoly of the traffic 
between Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa. As soon as the Rensse- 
laer and Saratoga railroad had been completed, an endeavor was made 
to enter into an agreement with the other road whereby the passenger 
and the freight traffic of the Rensselaer and Saratoga road might be 
carried on north of Ballston Spa over the tracks of the Saratoga and 
Schenectady road. The project was selfishly opposed, however, by the 
management of the latter road, comprised almost wholly of inhabitants 
of Albany, who were jealous of Troy's commercial success, and doubt 
less would have come to nought had it not been for the fact that the 
directors of the Rensselaer and Saratoga road had an unexpected oppor- 
tunity to purchase of a New York broker a sufficient number of shares 
of stock of the other road to give them its control. This settled the 
question, and the two other roads thereafter worked in harmony. Di- 
rect communication between Troy and Saratoga vSprings was at once 
established. The first cars used on this road were made by Gilbert, 
Veazie & Eaton, then famous car builders of Troy. The passenger 
cars were looked upon as marvels of beauty, crude as they were, and 
were twenty-four in number. They were twenty-four feet long, eight 
feet wide, and a little over six feet high inside. Each was divided into 
three apartments. The seats were " cushioned and backed with crim- 
son morocco, trimmed with coach lace, each apartment is surrounded 
by movable panels, thus affording the comforts and facilities of either 
a close or open carriage to suit the convenience of the passengers." 

This road finally went into the hands of its creditors; was purchased 
by a new organization, who raised the capital stock to $600,000, and 
later on to $800,000. In June, I860, it leased the Saratoga and Sche- 
nectady and the Albany and Vermont railroads. In 1865 it leased the 
Saratoga and Whitehall and the Rutland and Washington railroads. 
In 18G8 it leased and became owner of all the capital stock of the Glens 
Falls railroad. In February, 1870, it leased the Rutland and Whitehall 



RAILROADS. 179 

road. May 1, 1871, the Rensselaer and Saratoga Railroad company 
leased all its roads and leased lines to the Delaware and Hudson Canal 
company, which since that time has operated the entire system. 

The Saratoga and Washington Railroad company, (now a part of the 
Delaware and Hudson system) was chartered May 2, 1834, with a cap- 
ital stock of $600,000, but the company was not fully organized until 
April 20, 1835. The work of construction was begun at once and over 
$00,000 expended, when it was stopped in 1836. The time was ex- 
tended April 13, 1840; May 0, 1844, and April 4, 1850, and the capital 
stock was increased to $850,000 April 7, 1847. March 7, 1848, the 
company was granted permission to extend the road east to Vermont. 
Upon resuming work a route was in part adopted, and the work of 
laying rails was begun April 10, 1848. August 15 of that year the road 
was opened from Saratoga Springs toGansevoort; December 10, 1848, 
it was opened to Whitehall,, and April 9, 1851, to Lake Station, a mile 
and three-quarters beyond Whitehall junction. The road was sold 
February 27, 1855, on foreclosure of second mortgage, when the name 
was changed to Saratoga and Whitehall Railroad. The new company 
was organized June 8, 1855, with a capital stock of $500,000, and its 
complete road runs from Saratoga Springs to Castleton, Vt., a distance 
of fifty-two and one-half miles, sixteen miles of which lie in Saratoga 
county. This road was the successor to the Saratoga and Fort Edward 
railroad, which was incorporated April 17, 1832, with a capital of $200,- 
000, to construct a road from Saratoga Springs to Fort Edward, a dis- 
tance of seventeen miles. By the act of May 2, 1834, nothing having 
been done in the mean time toward the building of the road, its sur- 
veys, maps, etc., were allowed to be sold to the Saratoga and Washing- 
ton Railroad company. 

The history of the old Albany, Vermont and Canada railroad, com- 
monly know as the Albany Northern, part of which has been aban- 
doned many years, is interesting. This railroad was originally projected 
by the Albany, Bennington and Rutland Railroad company, which was 
organized April 23, 1850, with a capital stock of $400,000. Thisenter- 
l)rise was soon afterward merged in the Albany Northern Railroad 
company, which was organized February 12, 1851, with a capital stock 
of $335,000. This company built a railroad, single-track, from Albany 
to Eagle Bridge, thirty-three miles, passing through West Troy, 
Cohoes, Waterford, Schaghticoke, Pittstown, Johnsonville and Bus- 
kirks, to Eagle Bridge. The road crossed the Hud.son river about 



180 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

three miles above Waterford, and the old roadbed east of the tracks of 
the Rensselaer and Saratoga branch of the Delaware & Hudson Canal 
company's road, above Waterford Junction, may still be seen. The 
road was opened for traffic about July 1, 1853. But it became financially 
involved, and was sold imder foreclosure of mortgage October IG, 
1856, assuming the name of Albany, Vermont and Canada railroad 
November 7, 1856. October 6, 1859, the company filed articles of in- 
corporation as the Albany and Vermont Railroad company, and June 
12, 18G0, it leased its line to the Rensselaer and Saratoga Railroad 
company. 

The Adirondack railroad is the tangible outcome of several unsuc- 
cessful attempts to construct a road from the valley of the Hudson at 
or near Albany, through the southern part of the Adirondack wilder- 
ness to the east end of Lake Ontario, or the headwaters of the St. 
Lawrence river. The first attempt to establish such a road was made 
in April, 1839, when the first Adirondack Railroad company was in- 
corporated. It did not attempt to build the projected road, however. 
The next project was the Sackett's Harbor and Saratoga railroad, 
which was incorporated with a capital stock of $2,000,000 April 10, 
1848. This company began the work of grading for the contemplated 
road, but finally abandoned the effort. April G, 1857, this company 
was reorganized as the Lake Ontario and Hudson River Railroad com- 
pany, but still did nothing toward building any portion of the road. 
Then, on August 11, 1860, the Adirondack Estate and Railroad com- 
pany was incorporated; but nothing was done until it had been merged 
in the Adirondack company, which filed articles of incorporation 
October 24, 1863, and soon after began the work of building its single- 
track railroad from Saratoga Springs northward. March 31, 1865, the 
Legislature gave it permission to extend its road to Lake Ontario or 
the St. Lawrence, also to increase its capital stock to $5,000,000. The 
road was constructed from Saratoga Springs to North Creek, Warren 
county, a distance of sixty-two miles, passing through Greenfield, 
King's Station, South Corinth, Jessup's Landing and Hadley in Sara- 
toga county. July 10, 1870, the charter was amended and the capital 
stock increased to the limit allowed by the law of 1865. 

The Adirondack Railway company was incorporated as a reorganiza- 
tion of a corporation known as "The Adirondack company," under a 
plan or agreement filed in the office of the secretary of state July 7, 
1882. The Adirondack company was incorporated October 24, 1863, 



RAILROADS. 181 

and empowered " to construct and operate a railroad from some point 
in the county of Saratoga, up and along the valley of the Upper Hud- 
son in tlie wilderness in the northern part of the State, to purchase, 
take and hold lands to the amount of one million of acres in the said 
wilderness, in addition to the lands it was authorized to take under the 
general railroad law, to convert and prepare for market the natural 
products of the forest; to mine and prepare for market the iron and 
other ores and minerals upon its lands, and to transport, sell and dis- 
pose of the same." The Adirondack Railway companj^ by virtue of 
its incorporation and under such reorganization was vested with all the 
rights, privileges and franchises, and possessed of all the lands, property 
and immunities possessed by the original Adirondack company as cov- 
ered by its mortgage and sold under the proceedings to enforce the 
same. 

vSeveral other early railroads which were projected were abandoned. 
The Saratoga Springs and Schuylerville railroad was incorporated April 
6, 1832, with a capital stock of $100,000, to build a line from Saratoga 
Springs to Schuylerville. The Saratoga and Montgomery railroad was 
incorporated May 6, 1836, with a capital stock of $150,000, to build 
a road from Ballston Spa to the west branch of the North river. The 
Albany and Saratoga Springs railroad was organized September 20, 
1852, with capital stock of $200,000, to build a line connecting Saratoga 
Springs with the Albany Northern railroad. The Saratoga and Hud- 
son River railroad was organized April IG, 18G4. The Saratoga, Schuy- 
lerville and Hoosac Tunnel railroad filed articles April 14, 1870, with a 
capital stock of $300,000, intending to build a road from Saratoga 
Springs to Schuylerville. But none of these railroads existed except 
on paper. 

The Schenectady & Mechanicville railroad, chartered May 9, 1867, 
was built and is owned by the Delaware & Hudson Canal company. It 
was opened in January, 1882, and extends from Schenectady to Me- 
chanicville. 

The Mount McGregor Railroad company was chartered February 27, 
1882, and the road, a narrow-gauge line extending from Saratoga 
Springs to the summit of Mount McGregor, in the town of Moreau, 
was constructed soon afterward. March 6, 1893, the road was sold at 
foreclosure by John Person, referee, and the deed given to Douglass 
W. Mabee of Ballston Spa as trustee. June 10, 1896, the Saratoga and 
Mount McGregor Railroad company was incorporated for the purpose 



182 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of operating the road, which on that date was leased to this company 
by Douglass W. Mabee as trustee. January 29, 1897, an agreement 
was made between said trustee and Edmund A. Manice for the sale of 
the road upon the performance of certain conditions on or before July 
1, 1898. In 1898 the Mount McGregor Railroad company was merged 
into the Saratoga Northern Railroad company, and it is the intention 
of the latter company to extend the tracks to Glens Falls and operate 
an electric railway. May 38, 1898, the Mount McGregor Railroad 
company was peremptorily ordered to vacate and surrender to the Del- 
aware & Hudson Canal company premises in Saratoga which the latter 
company had leased to the Mount McGregor company. The land is 
seven feet in width and 3,693 feet in length, and runs parallel to the 
tracks of the Delaware & Hudson road. The original lease was for one 
year only. The Mount McGregor railroad is operated during the sum- 
mer months only. 

The Troy, Saratoga and Northern Railroad company was chartered 
Septembers, 1886, and subsequently was leased to the Fitchburg Rail- 
road company. Its tracks extend from Saratoga Springs and Schuyler- 
villeto Stillwater, where they meet the main line of the Fitchburg road. 

The Fitchburg railroad extends through Saratoga county from its 
bridge at Stillwater, through MechanicviUe, to Rotterdam Junction. It 
was chartered March 3, 1892, it originally having been known as the 
Troy & Boston railroad. 

The Saratoga & St. Lawrence Railroad company was chartered 
August 17, 1885, and leased to the Ogdensburg & Lake Champlain 
Railroad company June 1, 1889. None of the road completed lies in 
Saratoga county. 

The Hudson River & Washington County Midland Railroad com- 
pany was chartered September 6, 1895. It was the original intention 
to build in the spring of 1896. The right of way has been secured, 
the engineering work mostly completed, stone for bridges laid down at 
points where it is to be used, and grading has been commenced, but 
the road has not yet been constructed. 

Besides these steam railroads there are several electric railroads in 
Saratoga county. The Saratoga Street railway was incorporated in 
1897, the Saratoga Electric railway in 1889, the Saratoga Rapid Tran- 
sit railway and the Union Electric railway of Saratoga in 1890, the 
Saratoga Traction Co. and the Saratoga Lake railway in 1897. The 
Saratoga Traction Co. owns all the original property of these com- 



RAILROADS. 183 

panics, to wit : a road to The Geysers two miles in length, and a road 
to Saratoga lake a little over five miles in length. The former branch 
will shortly be extended to Ballston Spa, and possibly to Mechanicville. 
The officers of the Saratoga Traction company are : President, Theo- 
dore F. Hamilton of Saratoga Springs; treasurer, P. S. Storrs of New 
York; secretary, R. Smith of New York. R. E. Dunston is general 
manager of the road. 

The Ballston Terminal railway, the operation of which was begun in 
the summer of 1898, was chartered March 11, 189G. The work of con- 
struction was begun June 2, 1896. The first officers of the road were: 
President, John Noblit; vice-president, Frank Jones; treasurer, C. E. 
Lent; secretary, A. B. Paine. The following description of this unique 
road is taken from the Electrical World of April 30, 1898 : 

A novelty in electric railways is now under construction in the northern part of 
New York State, its peculiarity being that the road, although situated in the open 
country and designed mainly for freight service, is to be driven electrically. The 
road is called the Ballston Terminal Railway and runs from Ballston Spa, where it 
connects with the Delaware & Hudson system, 12}^ miles along the Kayaderosseras 
creek to Middle Grove, passing on the way many large paper and pulp mills, which 
it is intended to serve. The road is single track, built mainly on private right of 
way, and is constructed on regular steam railroad lines, with 70 pound steel T rails, 
standard ties and gravel ballast. The trestles and bridge work are all of standard 
railway construction, the latter being of steel on masonry foundations. The reasons 
for adopting electric power were the desire to run the road in places beside the high- 
way where steam locomotives are objectionable, the reduced fire risk in and about 
the paper mills and their wood yards, and the increased passenger traffic which it is 
expected can be obtained with the more frequent service possible with the lower 
train mile charges of the electric system. The electric cars can also overcome better 
the grades and curves, the reduction of which to steam railroad standards would 
have been quite expensive on this line. The maximum grade is 2i^ per cent, and 
the sharpest curve has a radius of 150 feet. 

The Stillwater and Mechanicville Street Railway company received 
its charter November 13, 1882. Work upon the road was completed 
the year following and cars began running June 1, 1883. In 1884 the 
line was extended to the Delaware & Hudson depot in Mechanicville. 
In 1895 the motive power was changed from horses to electricity, and 
the electric cars began running December 25 of the latter year. May 
5, 1898, the State Railroad commission approved an increase in the 
capital stock from $60,000 to $250,000, the additional capital to be used 
by the company in the construction of a new line to run from Mechanic- 
ville to Waterford, where it is to connect with the Troy City railway. 



184 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

With the construction of this line and the projected southerly extension 
of the line of the Saratoga Traction company, the public will be afforded 
means of transportation by electric railway from Troy and Albany 
to Saratoga Springs. The projected extension of the Mount McGregor 
railroad northward to Glens Falls and the changing of its motive power 
from steam to electricity will give electric railway communication in 
an almost direct line from Troy and Albany to Glens Falls, Sandy Hill 
and Fort Edward. 

Sunday, August 15, 1898, a branch of the Stillwater and Mechanic- 
ville electric railway was opened from Mechanicville to Waterford. 

The Waterford & Cohoes Street Railway company was chartered Feb- 
ruary 8, 1883, for the purpose of operating a street railroad between 
Waterford and Cohoes. The road was built in 1881: and August 19 of 
that year was leased to the Troy and Lansingburgh Railroad company. 

The Schuylerville & Greenwich Electric Railway company received a 
charter in 1896 granting the right to construct an electric railway line 
from Schuylerville, in Saratoga county, to (Greenwich, in Washington 
county. The road has not yet been built. 



CHAPTER XI. 



Second Period of the Century, 1831 to the War of the RebelHon— Days of Great 
Prosperity at Saratoga Springs — Reconstruction of the Early Hotels and the Build- 
ing of Many Handsome New Ones — Dr. Clark's Waterworks System — Banks, 
Churches and Schools— Foundation of Temple Grove Seminary— Societies Organ- 
ized — The Numerous and Important Manufactures of Ballston Spa Established 
During This Period — The Ballston Spa National Bank — Religious and Secret So- 
cieties—Academies, Schools and Churches Established Throughout the County — 
The Development of the Water Power of the Hudson and the Kayaderosseras. 

In following the career of Saratoga county through the period be- 
ginning with the commercial revolution wrought by reason of the con- 
struction of the first railroads in the county and ending with the 
memorable struggle known as the Civil war, or war of the Rebellion, in 
which the lives of many gallant .sons of the county were sacrificed, 
one is impressed by the fact that the peaceful development of the in- 
dustry and commerce of the county, coupled with the establishment of 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1831—1861. 185 

numerous fine schools and academies and religious societies, was not 
marred by any of the unpleasantnesses which characterized so many 
other communities during the same period. In the principal villages of 
the county — Saratoga Springs, Ballston Spa, Mechanicville, Waterford, 
Stillwater and Schuylerville — this growth naturally was more marked 
than elsewhere in the county. In the rural districts little else trans- 
pired excepting the increased cultivation of the soil. 

In the village of Saratoga Springs the most important changes and 
improvements were to be seen in the erection of a large number of 
splendid hotels for the accommodation of the rapidly increasing num- 
ber of summer visitors, and the laying out of the beautiful Congress 
park, which for many years has been such an attraction at this world - 
famed resort. 

The most important of these magnificent hotels are the United 
States, the Grand Union and Congress hall. There are several others 
noted for their sumptuous entertainment of guests, though not so com- 
modious. 

The Grand Union is the oldest of the Saratoga hotels. The story of 
the erection of the original hotel by Gideon Putnam has been told in a 
preceding chapter. It was first locally known as Putnam's tavern, and 
above its entrance was a quaint sign intended to represent the entrance 
of Israel Putnam into the wolf's den. After the death of Gideon Put- 
nam in 1813, his widow conducted the establishment for several years. 
In 1836, Rockwell and Washington Putnam, two of her sons, purchased 
the interests of the remainder of the family, named the hotel Union 
hall, and continued the management until January, 1849. In that 
year Henry H. Hathorn succeeded to the ownership of Rockwell Put- 
nam's interest. The next spring, before the opening of the house 
under the new management, Washington Putnam died, and his widow and 
Mr. Hathorn conducted the establishment as Putnam & Hathorn until 
January, 1853, when Mrs. Putnam disposed of her interest to Seymour 
Ainsworth. After one season's management by Hathorn & Ainsworth, 
Mr. Hathorn, in January, 1854, sold his interest to George R. Putnam, 
son of Rockwell Putnam, and Putnam & Ainsworth were the pro- 
prietors for two seasons. In January, 1856, Charles H. Payn purchased 
Mr. Ainsworth's interest, and Putnam & Payn managed the hotel until 
May, 1864, when the entire property was sold to Warren Leland. 
During these years many improvements were made to the property. 
In 1843, for instance, the building had a frontage of one hundred and 



186 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

fifty-four feet on Broadway, the south wing extended one hundred and 
twenty-two feet on Congress street, the north wing exteiided westward 
eighty-seven feet, and was joined to a structure containing lodging 
rooms, called the " garden house." This was eighty-five feet long and 
thirty feet wide. The sale in 1849 was made on a basis of a valuation 
of $40,000. In 1854 the valuation was above $80,000, while ten years 
later, so great had been the improvements and the general increase in 
values, that the figures had risen to $200,000. The year after Warren 
Leland purchased the property he bought the Ainsworth property 
adjoining and added it to the hotel. He also took into partnership 
with him his brother, Charles Leland, and the firm of Leland Brothers 
continued to make great improvements and additions to their property. 
Several pieces of adjoining property were purchased, an opera house 
was constructed on the grounds, many thousands of dollars were ex- 
pended in new furnishings and luxuries such as Saratoga never before 
had seen, the old front was superseded by a new one, and the Grand 
Union of old was no more. But these extraordinary expenses quickly 
exhausted the resources of the Lelands, who were too progressive for 
the times, and in the spring of 1872 their rapidly increasing troubles 
culminated when the entire real and personal property was sold at 
auction, by order of the United States District Court. It was pur- 
chased by Alexander T. Stewart, the merchant prince of New York, 
for $532,000, and he announced his intention of making it the largest 
and most complete summer hotel in the world. 

With this expectation Mr. Stewart bought about a dozen pieces of 
property adjoining the hotel, for which he paid $100,000. But the 
owners of two lots desired by him refusing to sell, he was compelled to 
abandon his original project. Determined to do all he could to im- 
prove his new possession, he removed the Ainsworth building on the 
north of his property and erected a front there to correspond with the 
front of the south half of the building, which had been erected by 
Leland B';others. He also completed numerous other improvements 
begun by his predecessors before their failure. The hotel to-day is 
substantially the same as when Mr. Stewart had efl:"ected the changes 
therein which are here described — one of the most elegant and com- 
modious summer hotels in the country, its only superiors being those 
which, in later years, have been erected in various parts of the country 
on more modern principles of architecture. 

The early career of Congress hall, the erection of which was begun 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1831—1861. 187 

in 1811 by Gideon Putnam, the builder of the Grand Union, has been 
described in a preceding chapter. Samuel Drake, who managed the 
hotel for several years for Guert Van Schoonhoven, the owner, his 
uncle, retired in 1828, when it was leased by Joseph and James R. 
Westcot. It was enlarged in 18:31 by the erection of an additional story 
to the south wing. vStephen S. Seaman and Calvin Munger became 
propietors in 183G or 1837. Soon after Seaman died, and Mr. Munger 
managed it until his death in 1846. In that year Joshua Collins opened 
it as a temperance house. Various persons conducted it until 1854, 
when it was purchased by Henry H. Hathorn. He formed a partner- 
ship with H. P. Hale, and they made many improvements, including 
the erection of an additional story on the north wing and a ball room. 
This hotel was burned in 18G6, after which the present handsome edifice 
was constructed. Like the Grand Union and the United States, it has 
since ranked as one of the best summer hotels in the country. 

The establishment of the magnificent United States hotel by Elias 
Benedict in 1824 has already been noted. Numerous additions and im- 
provements were made up to 1865, when, while it was in the height of 
its early glory, it was destroyed by fire. John Ford, the first proprietor, 
was succeeded in 1830 by James M. Marvin. For one year after that 
date Ford & Marvin were the proprietors. In 1831 Samuel Drake, an 
early proprietor of Congress hall, was associated with Mr. Marvin in 
its management, but in 1832 the latter was sole proprietor. The fol- 
lowing year it was managed by Joseph and James R. Westcot and John 
C. Dillon. In 1834 Mr. Marvin again took possession, and from 1835 
to 1837 he was assisted by Stephen is. Seaman. In 1838 the latter was 
succeeded by John Thomas of Albany, and for four years Thomas & 
Marvin were the proprietors. In 1842 Judge Thomas J. Marvm pur- 
chased the interests of Mr. Thomas, and the Marvin brothers main- 
tained the house until the death of Judge Marvin in 1852. From that 
time until the burning of the United States, June 18, 1865, it was 
managed by James M. Marvin. 

As to the ownership of the hotel during this time, Judge Marvin 
bought the property of Mr. Benedict, his uncle, in 1832, the year fol- 
lowing selling a half interest to Lewis Benedict of Albany. These 
owners then allowed Elias Benedict to come back into the firm by pay- 
ing one-third of the expense of the improvements made. Elias Bene- 
dict's heirs dying, James M. Marvin secured their interests, thus 
leaving the house owned in equal shares by Thomas J. Marvin, James 
M. Marvin and Lewis Benedict. 



188 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

It is a noteworthy fact that it was just one century after John Arnold 
of Rhode Island had built his rude log tavern at the Springs when the 
new United States hotel was opened for guests, to take the place of the 
one destroyed by fire. Built of brick, after the Norman style of arch- 
itecture, the hotel at that time undoubtedly was without a superior, in 
point of elegance and comfort, in the world. It covers and incloses 
over seven acres of ground, and even to-day, after a life of a quarter 
of a century, it still ranks as one of the most attractive and commodious 
summer hotels in the country. 

The Marvin house was started in 1833 as the Railroad house, and its 
first proprietor was Mr. Caldwell. In 18.53 it was purchased by Philip 
Snyder, who built a new hotel, called the Marvin house, on the site. 
June 18, 18Go, it was burned, but Adam and Daniel Snyder, the pro- 
prietors, at once rebuilt it at a cost of $100,000. It was opened to 
the public July 23, 186G. 

The American hotel was built about 1840 by George W. Wilcox, 
who, with his son-in-law, E. Darwin Pitkin, conducted it for many 
years. William Bennett subsequently succeeded to the management. 

The Clarendon hotel was built in 18(50 by Mrs. Mary I. Jones, and 
opened that year by Alexander Putnam. Charles E. Leland purchased 
it in 1873, after having managed it as lessee for eight years. 

The Worden, which has been conducted for several years by William 
W. Worden, is the leading hotel which remains open all the year round. 
It stands at the northwest corner of Broadway and Division street. 

The Windsor, on the corner of Broadway and William street, was 
built in 1870, and ranks among the finest hotels of its size in the State. 
Like most of the others, it is closed during the winter season. 

The Adelphi hotel was built in 1877, on Broadway at the head of 
Phila street. It remains open all the year. 

The Commercial is another hotel which remains open for guests 
twelve months in the year. Great improvements were made in this 
hotel in 1898-1899 by the proprietor, John Wandell. 

Among the other hotels in the village may be mentioned the Colum- 
bian, an attractive resort; the Holden house, the Waverly, the Albe- 
marle, the Bates, the Empire, the Continental, the Everett, the 
Heustis and the Mansion house. 

The rapid growth of the village after the building of the first three 
great summer hotels in the first quarter of the century necessitated a 
number of public improvements. The most important of these was 
inaugurated in 1833, when Dr. John Clark, son of Saratoga's most pub- 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1831—1861. 180 

He spirited man, began the construction of an elaborate water supply 
system — elaborate for those days, at least. On the hill in the southern 
part of the village, on the present site of Congress Spring park, he 
erected, in that year, a tower about fifty feet high. He also laid 
wooden conduits through the streets of the village, from which connec- 
tions were made by individuals and for fire purposes. By means of 
pumps water was raised through pipes to the top of the wooden tower, 
in which was a reservoir, and passed thence, by gravity, into the con- 
duits. 

In 1847, this reservoir and the pressure being unequal to the de- 
mands made upon it, a large reservoir was built about two miles from 
the village, in the town of Greenfield. The water was carried to the 
village through iron pipes. But this supply, too, soon proved insufH- 
cent, especially during the summer, and another reservoir, for fire pur- 
poses only, was placed between the first one and the village. This 
proved almost useless, however, by reason of the small supply of water 
and the low pressure. No change in the system was made, however, 
until the amendment of the village charter in 186G. Before this date, a 
fire department, consisting of hand engines, with other essential appa- 
ratus, was organized. This, too, had undergone material changes. 

In 1840 an association was formed having for its object the establish- 
ment of a new cemetery, which was laid out in that year and named 
Green Ridge cemetery. The remains of many persons who had been 
buried in the old Sadler burial ground, the Putnam burial ground, and 
elsewhere, were transferred to the new site, and a number of hand- 
some monuments were placed there to mark their resting place. In 
August, 1844, the body of William L. Stone, the author, was interred 
in Green Ridge — the first regular burial in that cemetery. Many of 
the most noted personages of the earlier days of the county also are 
buried there. 

The business men of Saratoga, realizing how great would be the 
benefits accruing therefrom, joyfully hailed the organization of the first 
banking institution in that village in 1848. This bank, a private insti- 
tution, was established in accordance with the general banking law of 
the State by Thomas J. Marvin and James M. Marvin of Saratoga 
Springs and Rufus H. King and J. B. Plumb of Albany. It had a 
nominal capital of $60,000, and started in business with Judge Thomas 
J. Marvin as president and James M. Marvin as cashier. The office of 
the bank was at first in the old insurance building on the southeast 



190 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

corner of the United States hotel property. Soon after beginning busi- 
ness John S. Leake of the New York State bank of Albany was engaged 
as cashier. By 1852 the increasing business necessitated a change in 
the bank, which then increased its capital stock to $100,000 and reor- 
ganized as an "associate bank," with John Beekman Finlay as presi- 
dent and John S. Leake as cashier. Four years later Dr. Samuel Free- 
man became president, remaining in that office until his death in 1870. 
He was succeeded by James M. Marvin. 

In 1878 Augustus Bockes was made president and his son, William 
Hay Bockes, became cashier. In 189i James M. Marvin again became 
president and fills the position at the present day. Henry B. Hanson 
is vice-president and William Hay Bockes cashier. The capital stock 
of the bank was increased in 1885 from $100,000 to $125,000. The 
bank owns its banking house on the southeast corner of Broadway and 
Phila street. 

Another important step in the direction of public improvement was 
the organization, in 1854, of the Saratoga Gaslight company. This 
concern was incorporated with a capital stock of $75,000 and these 
directors: L. H. Tupper, J. M. Corliss, T. M. Lockwood, S. S. Dauchy, 
John S. Manning, S. G. Clements and R. D. Bardwell. In the year of 
its organization the company began the work of erecting a large gas 
manufacturing plant and laying pipes through the streets of Saratoga 
Springs for the purpose of distributing the commodity to the patrons 
of the company.' 

A circuit called Saratoga was organized by the M. E. church in 1791, 
taking its name from the county. Methodist services were not intro- 
duced into the town until 1829, when Rev. Mr. Stebbins occasionally 
preached in the place, there being but two resident Methodists there at 
the time. In 1830, under the ministry of Rev. Dr. Samuel Luckey," 

' This ctjmpany was reorganized in 1876 with a capital stock of $10, IKK) and these ot!ficers: Will- 
iam Bennett, James R. Chapman and Charles H. Holden March 1, 1.S87, the name was changed 
to the Saratoga Gas and Electric Light company, the addition to the name showing the expansion 
of the business. The company failed November 2il, 1NS)3, and went into the hands of Lafayette B. 
Gleason of New York city as receiver. April 7 on default of $11,000 interest and maturing bonds 
the concern was sold to the bondholders' committee. In March. 1897, the company was reorgan- 
ized imder the name of the Saratoga Gas, Electric Light and Power company on a financial basis 
of $300,000 first mortgage bonds, $200,000 preferred stock and $100,000 common stock. The present 
officers are: President, Edgar T. Brackett of Saratoga; vice-pr&sident, Alexander W. Smith of 
New York; secretary and treasurer, Osborn W. Bright; superintendent, Patrick P. Roohan of 
Saratoga. 

' Samuel Luckey, D.D., was born at Rensselaerville, N. Y., April 4, 17(11, and entered the 
traveling ministry of the M. E. church in 1811. In 18.S-. two years after the organization of the 
church at Saratoga, he was elected principal of the Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, and in 183G he 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1831—1861. 191 

the first M. E. church edifice was erected. Up to the inauguration of 
the annual conferences of the M. E. church in 1835, Saratoga Springs 
was one of the appointments of what was then called Stillwater circuit, 
comprising Greenfield, Wilton, Schuylerville, Malta Ridge, Clifton 
Park, Stillwater and Saratoga Springs. For three or four years before 
this Rev. J. D. Moriarty preached here. On the former date the con- 
gregation worshiped in the old church on North Broadway. In June, 
1840, the conference made Saratoga Springs a regular station, with 
Ephraim Goss as missionary in charge. The church edifice, built in 
that year, was dedicated in 1841.' 

In 1834 the first mass ever celebrated in Saratoga Springs was con- 
ducted by Rev. John Kelly, pastor of the Roman Catholic church at 
Sandy Hill. For seven years after that date there was no resident 
priest here and no stated time for the services, which were held from 
time to time. Rev. Father McCloskey, who became pastor of the 
Schenectady church in 1838, celebrated mass occasionally, as did Rev. 
Peter Havermans of Troy, and others. The former took the first steps 
toward organizing the congregation. September 13, 1839, John Costi- 
gan purchased of Thomas J. Marvin the lot on which St. Peter's church 
now stands, with the building on it, known as the Lyceum. This was 
at once converted into a Catholic house of worship; but it was not until 
September, 1843, that the young church had its first regular pastor. 
In that year Rev. Anthony Farley became the first priest in charge, 
but in Maj' of the following year was succeeded by Rev. Father Dono- 
hue. He was succeeded in November, 1844, by Rev. Bernard Van 
Reeth, who in turn was succeeded in the summer of 1847 by Rev. 
Thomas Daly. In July, 1850, Father Cull assumed charge, and at once 
set himself to the task of building a new church for his flock. This 
was dedicated August 15, 1853, by Monseigneur Bedini, then apostolic 
delegate to the United States, and Archbishop Hughes. Father Cull 

was elected editor of the Christian Advocate and Journal, in New York. Shortly retiring from 
the editorship he returned to the Genesee conference, where he remained until his death October 
11, 1869. He also served as a Regent of the University of the .State of New York. 

* The first house of worship, erected in 1H30, stood near the corner of Broadway and frreen- 
field avenue. It was used as an academy by E. K. Bangs, and later as a boarding house, after 
the society abandoned it in lK:j'.). The church built in 1840 and 1841 was dedicated July 23 of the 
latter year by Dr. John Kennedy of Philadelphia and Dr. Noah Levings of New York, Kev. Ste- 
phen Remington of Schenectady preaching the sermon. The church struggled under a heavy 
debt for many years after this, and it was not wiped out until 1865, during the pastorate of Rev. 
C. F. Burdick. In 18.5.5, while Rev. Dr. Bostwick Hawley was pastor, the house of worship was 
considerably enlarged and otherwise improved. The church was rebuilt on Washington street 
in 1870 and dedicated by Bishop James, March ;M, 1871. 



193 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

did not stop when he had built" the church. He also procured a pastoral 
residence and cemetery, purchased the Hugh Dennin property, spent 
a considerable sum on improvements thereto, and introduced a branch 
of the Sisters of St. Joseph, to take charge of the parochial schools. 
He was one of the most valued members of the community for many 
years. ' 

Saratoga Springs has ever been celebrated for its excellent schools 
public and private. One of the best known and most widely patron- 
ized private schools in the State of New York for many years was the 
boarding and day school for young ladies opened by the Misses Way- 
land in Saratoga in 1831. It stood on the corner of Broadway and 
Washington street, the site now covered by a portion of the Grand 
Union hotel. The number of pupils was always limited, and every 
lady placed in charge of the Misses Wayland was educated as in a 
home." The second noted private school at the Springs was that opened 
in 1854 by Mr. Carter, also for the education of young ladies. Rev. 
Luther F. Beecher became Mr. Carter's partner in the enterprise the 
year following, and in 1856 they built the institution at Temple Grove. 
The school did not pay, and nine years afterward the building was sold 
for hotel and school purposes combined. This undertaking, too, was 
not successful and the school was suspended.^ 

Other schools existed in this village during the period under discus- 
sion, but the school of the Misses Wayland and Temple Grove Semi- 
nary were the most inaportant in the village. Miss Martha Thompson, 
daughter of Dr. Thompson, had a young ladies' school in the northern 

' Rev. Father Cull died January 2, 187;i Five years before that date he retired from the active 
work of the priesthood, and in January. 1868, Rev. Father Sheehan succeeded him. In 1870, dur- 
ing the pastorate of the latter, the church was incorporated under the title of St. Peter's church, 
by Bishop John J. Conrgy of Albany, Edgar E. Wadhams, V. G., M. Sheehan, the pastor; John 
Foley and B. McGovern. 

3 This school was remfn-ed in 1875 to Putnam street, in the rear of Congress Hall. Three 
years later its doors were closed by reason of changes in the family circle which rendered this act 
necessary. 

3 Rev. Charles F. Dowd saw a future for a ladies' seminary here, however, and in 18(18 he pur- 
chased the Grove property, made extensive alterations and additions to the building, and 
equipped it thoroughly for the purposes for which it was originally intended. In 18(19 the school 
was incorporated under the supervision of the Regents of the University of the State of New 
York. The officers of the school named in the charter were: President, Rev. Charles F. Dowd, 
A. M.; vice-president. Rev. John Woodbridge; Benjamin F. Bancroft, treasurer; Henry M. Dowd, 
secretary; Hon. Frederick A. Conkling, Rev. P. R. Day. Rev. L. M. WoodrutT, Rev. John P. Gib- 
son, Hon, Charles S. Lester, Alexander Cherry, Prof. Hiram A. Wilson, Charles N. Lockwood 
and Paoli Durkee, trustees, The grounds of the seminary occupy the entire square on Spring 
street, between Circular and Regent streets. Prof. Dowd retired from active control of the serai- 
nary in 1898, leaving it in charge of his son, Frank D. Dowd. 



SARATOGA SPRINGS, 1831— 18G1. 193 

part of the village for several years. Elijah K. Bangs, who bought 
the uld Methodist meeting-house for a school building in 1839, had 
already been maintaining, for three years, an excellent school for boys. 
From 1838 to 1839 he had a school at Hempstead, Long Island, but in 
the latler year returned and reopened his Saratoga school, teaching 
here until 1845. Paoli Durkee opened a classical school for boys in 
1849, maintaining it for nine years.' 

Rising Sun lodge, F. & A. M., which was removed from the town of 
Wilton to the village of Saratoga Springs in 18'24, had a precarious ex- 
istence for many years. During the period of the great anti-Masonic 
agitation it ceased to exist, from 1830 to 1835. In the latter year an 
attempt to revive it failed, and this experience was repeated several 
times until December 16, 1844, when the Grand lodge granted a dis- 
pensation for the organization of a lodge to be known as Union lodge, 
which was to cease May 15, 1845. On the day preceding that date a 
petition requesting the revival of Rising Sun lodge was sent to the 
Grand lodge. This prayer was granted and the next month the lodge 
was revived and renumbered as Rising Sun lodge No. 103, F. & A. M. 
Since that date it has continued in successful operation, and to-day is 
one of the strongest Masonic lodges in the State. The charter mem- 
bers of the revived lodge were G. M. Davison, Robert McDonnell, 
Alvah Marvin, Gardner Bullard, D. D. Benedict, Joseph White and 
Joseph M. Wheeler. D. D. Benedict was the first worshipful master. 

Rising Sun Chapter No. 131, R. A. M., was instituted February 3, 
1847. The charter officers were: H. P., Joseph M.Wheeler; K., D. 
D. Benedict; S., Richard L. Allen. 

Cryptic Council No. 37, R. & S. M., was instituted February 1, 1870. 
The charter officers were: T. I. M., C. H. Holden; R. I. D. M., L. B. 
Putnam; I. P. C. W., G. H. Gillis, 

Washington Commandery, No. 33, K. T., was organized September 
14, 1864. The charter members were Hon. Reuben Hyde Walworth, 
H. V. Sayles, C. H. Holden, George B. Fish, H. A. Van Dorn, L. B. 
Putnam, W. R. Winchell, T. G. Young, C. E. Durkee, C. H. Brown, 
Charles Carpenter, R. C. Blackall and F. T. Parkman. The command- 
cry has since become one of the strongest in this section of the State. 
The following have been the commanders: 1864-1865, George B. Fish; 

' After the latter year this school was successively taught by Rev. Mr. Proudfit and Mr. Robb. 
The late Rev. Dr. J. N. Crocker, a Presbyterian clerKyman, had a good school here for several 
years. There were many other small private schools in the village. 
13 



194 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1866-1873, Charles H. Holden; 1873, F. D. Wheeler, jr.; 1874, George 
H. Gillis; 1875, Charles H. Sturges; 1876, John L. Perry; 1877, Charles 
H. Holden; 1878-1885, Robert C. McEwen; 1886-1887, Charles H. 
Holden; 1888-1889, J. M. Colcord; 1890-1891, H. L. Waterbury; 1892- 
1893, A. P. Knapp; 1894, John Bennett. 

Saratoga lodge No. 15, I. O. O. F., was instituted November 17, 1843. 
The present charter was granted December 1, 1850. The first officers 
elected were: N. G., C. W. Burlingame; V. G., A. S. Piper; R. S., C.N. 
Maynard; P. S., O. T. Sparks: treasurer, A. R. Barrett; trustees, F.T. 
Hill, A. S. Hays, A. J. Holmes. 

Saratoga Division, Sons of Temperance, was instituted in 1843 or 
1843, but ceased to exist after a few years. Another division was or- 
ganized in 1858 and still another in 1868. Thelatter died out about 
1873. 

While Saratoga was prospering as a summer resort, Ballston Spa was 
enjoying great industrial advancement. When Hezekiah Middlebrook 
constructed a dam across the Kayaderosseras in the northern part of 
the village and erected the old "Blue Mills," as they are known to this 
day, he assisted materially in giving added momentum to the wave of 
prosperity which had begun to be felt in the growing village. These 
mills were extensive grist mills, and for years were the most important 
in the county. The original grist mill erected by Daniel Thomas was 
located about a third of a mile further up the stream. 

In 1836 Jonathan S. Beach and Harvey Chapman bought seventy-two acres of 
land, east of Milton avenue, between Malta avenue and the railroad, near North 
High street, including all the water power of the lower dam now occupied by Mr. 
West. Soon after this purchase they built the west mill of the three on the island; 
this was opened and operated as a woolen mill for a few years, but finally discon- 
tinued. About the year 1840 Beach & Chapman erected the second or middle build- 
ing upon the island ; they sold it in a short time to P. H. McOmber, and he trans- 
ferred it finally to Samuel H. Cook. This was a cotton mill and it was in operation 
down to the year of 1861. In the year 1844 Beach & Chapman erected the third mill, 
the one now run by Mr. West as a paper mill ; they soon sold this, with the water 
power and land still remaining to them, to James M. Cook. This was also a cotton 
mill, and' was operated until 1861. All of this island property was then bought by 
Jonas Hovey. 

The Ballston Spa Mill Company was formed in 1838 to 1840, consisting of Jon- 
athan S. Beach, Harvey Chapman, James Thompson, Jiphn W. Thompson, George 
Thompson, Lebbeus Booth and others; they bought the land and water-power west 
of Milton street, north of Gordon creek, and south of the Blood and Thomas prop- 
erty. This was purchased of the Middlebrook family. In early times Daniel 
Thomas and Hezekiah Middlebrook had owned together a very large tract in and 



BALLSTON SPA, 1831—1861. 195 

around the northern portion of the present village. They divided the property, 
Middlebrook retaining the water-power and Thomas taking the lands, covered then 
with valuable pine timber. In after years the water privileges became far more val- 
uable than the other. The Ballston Spa Mill company did not continue as a cor- 
poration, but the parties named above as joint proprietors erected the Union cotton 
mill, sometimes known as No. 1. The mill was operated by Ziba H. Cook and 
others for manufacturing print cloths until about the year 1855. The same proprie- 
tors built the brick mill on the hill, the one now occupied by Mr. West in the man- 
ufacture of paper bags. This was opened for a knitting mill, operated by H. Chap- 
man & Son, also by Bassett and Hiro Jones; the latter owning the real estate. It 
was sold, as was the other factory, to Jonas Hovey in 1864-65. Mr. Hovey, having 
thus become the owner of all these mills, operated them, to a greater or less extent, 
until the time of his death in 1873. In connection with his extensive operations 
here, he built the residence now owned by George West. On this house is said to 
have been expended §50,000. 

Beach & Chapman also built about the year 1850 a woolen mill, known as the Glen 
woolen mill property, now owned by Edwin H. Chapman. It has been occupied by 
Chapman and others as a blanket and cloth mill to the present time.' 

About 1850 Messrs. Booth, Wait, Moore, Wakeman and Thomas 
opened an extensive oil-cloth manufactory, which was operated for a 
quarter of a century, turnino^ out large quantities of a high grade of oil- 
cloth." Several other manufacturing concerns were doing business in 
town before the war, but those referred to were considered the most 
important. 

The hamlet of Bloodville, now a part of Ballston Spa, has been an 
important manufacturing point since 1824. In that year Isaiah Blood' 
began the erection of a scythe factory, in partnership with his father, 
vSyh^ester Blood. The latter in that year purchased the splendid water 
power on the Kayaderosseras creek at that point, manufacturing scythes 
at that place in connection with his old factory below Ballston Spa. 
About 1837, having purchased the interest of his father, he greatly 
increased the facilities of the plant, and added a department for the 
manufacture of axes. He erected a large factory just below the scythe 

* .Sylvester's History of Saratoga County.— 1878. 
^ This factory was burned in 187.5 and never rebuilt. 
^Isaiah Blood, born at Ballston, February l.S, 1810, was a son of Sylvester Blood, who began 
the manufacture of scythes about 180.5 two miles south of Ballston Spa. In 1831 he married Jane 
E. Gates of Ballston, and soon formed a partnership with his father. In Wi7 he bought out the 
latter's interest and at once began enlarging the business, adding a department for the manufac- 
ture of axes. He was a lifelong Democrat. In 1847 he was elected supervisor of the town of 
Milton, which generally gave a Whig majority ; in 18.51 was elected to the Assembly from the first 
Saratoga district ; in 18.59 was again chosen supervisor ; in the same year was elected to the State 
Senate from the fifteenth district ; in 1869 was again elected senator, and died Moveniber '.iO, 187U, 
before the expiration of his term. Albert P. Blood of Ballston Spa, who died in April, 1898. was 
a son. 



196 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

shop for this department, and immediately gave employment to a 
greatly increased force of men. He continued to increase the output 
of his great plant until his death in 1870, when the concern passed into 
the hands of his son-in-law, Henry Knickerbocker of New York.' 

Ballston Spa enjoyed home banking facilities at an early day. The 
Ballston Spa Bank, the first in town, was organized in 1838 by the elec- 
tion of these directors: James M. Cook, Isaac Frink, Anson Brown, 
Lebbeus Booth, Jonathan S. Beach, Samuel Freeman, Eli Barnum, 
John W. Thompson, Stephen Smith, John Kelley, Harvey Chapman, 
Philip H. McOmber and Samuel Hides. They elected James M. Cook 
president, Isaac Fowler cashier, and John J. Lee teller. May 15, 1839, 
the bank opened its doors for business.'' 

Three churches were erected in Ballston Spa during the period to 
which this chapter is devoted. These were the Presbyterian church 
which is still standing, the Methodist church and the Catholic church, 
which have since been superseded by handsome new edifices. The 
First Presbyterian church was organized in June, 1834, by families who 
had been attending services at Ballston Centre and Milton Centre. At 
the preliminary meeting held May 10, 183-1, sixty six members pre- 
sented letters from the two churches named and signed the member- 
ship roll. July 8 following Philip H. McOmber, Jonathan S. Beach, 
Edward W. Lee, Moses Williams, James Comstock and Christopher 
Earle were elected trustees. The following year the house of worship 
was erected at the northeast corner of High and Bath streets, at a cost 
of $10,000, and was dedicated in November of that year. In 185G a 
parsonage was purchased at an expense of nearly $3,000, and in 1860 
Samuel H. Cook erected a chapel on Milton avenue, on the site of the 
present chapel." The Methodist Episcopal church was not formally 

' The plant is now owned by the American Axe and Tool company. The real estate of the 
corporation is valued at $79,4.'>0. 

'In IvS'J.'j the institution was reorganized as a national baiil;, taking the name cjf Hallston Spa 
National Bank. Its capital stock is $]nn,non. The presidents havu been : James M. Cook, 1H39- 
IWii; John W. Thompson, Wili IHK ; George I,. Thompson, lS9-J-lS0li (the year of his death); An- 
drew .S. Booth, 1890 to the present time. James L. Scott, vice-president, acted as president for a 
short time in isno during the last illness of President George L. Thompson, who died December 
an, 18U.'). The cashiers have been : Isaac Towler, 1H:W-18.')(> ; John J. Lee, IK5H-188r ; George L. Thomp- 
son, 1881-1892; Thomas Kerley, 1892 to the present time. William Ingham and William II. Ball 
are the present vice-presidents, Egbert Clute is teller, and C. O. McCreedy, jr., clerk. 

^ This chapel was torn down several years ago and a new one erected in its place. The 
pastors have been: Revs. James Wood, Samuel J. Prime, A. T. Chester, Daniel Stewart, George 
T. Todd, Nathaniel S. Prime, Richard H. Steele, Nathaniel B. Klink, David Tully, S. Mattoon, S. 
A. Hoyt, jr., David IVIurdock, A. R. Olney, D. D., and Henry L. Teller, the present occupant of 
the pulpit. 




RHV, BERNARD J. MgDONOUCjH. 



BALLSTON SPA, 1831—1861. 197 

organized until 183G, though a class existed in the village as early as 
1833, when Ballston Spa and .Saratoga Springs were together for one 
year, with William Anson and Elisha P. Jacobs, supernumerary, as 
preachers. After this nothing is known except that a preacher named 
Clark held class meetings until August 25, 183G, when a society was 
organized. It purchased the old academy building, which stood near 
the spot now occupied by the D. & H. railroad turntable, moved it to 
the corner of West High and Charlton streets and remodeled it into a 
house of worship. Rev. Noah Levings preached the dedicatory ser- 
mon. In 1845 a brick church was built on the site of the present edi- 
fice on Milton avenue, and the old academy building was sold to the 
Catholic congregation. ' 

There is little to be learned by whom Catholic services were held in 
Ballston Spa prior to 1849, but at this date we learn that Father Haver- 
mans celebrated mass on Ash Wednesday. The meetings were held at 
this time in the old Methodist meeting-house which the Catholics had 
purchased. The cornerstone of a new church was laid in December, 
1859, under the pastorate of Father Cull, and was at that time located 
on the east side of Church street, the property which is now owned by 
ex-Sherifi" D. F. Winney, and subsequently removed to its present 
location, which property was purchased at a cost of $10,500. In 1SG7 
Rev. Anthony McGough became pastor of this charge, prior to which 
it had been under the supervision of the Saratoga Springs pastorate. 
Father McGough remained in charge until 1873, when he was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Father Bayard, who continued in charge until October 
6, 1878, when Rev. Bernard J. McDonough commenced what has 
proved a most acceptable and fortunate pastorate for St. Mary's so- 
ciety. An idea of the wonderful and continuous growth of this society 
is gained from the fact that its membership now numbers more than 
two hundred and fifty families. 

The new church edifice recently completed is one of the finest in 
Saratoga county, having cost over $60,000. It was designed by Archi.- 

' In 1892-1803 a hand.some new church, of brick, was built on the site of the old one, during the 
pastorate of Rev. Joseph C. Russura. Half the cost of its construction was contributed by ex- 
Congressman George West, a member of the church. The corner-stone was laid October in, 
180S, and the church was dedicated October 23. 18!)3. January 4, 1893, N. R. Vandenburgh, one of 
the contractors employed in building the church, fell from a plank in the incomplete building 
and fractured his skull, which caused his death January 7 following. The first pastor who served 
this church exclusively was Rev. S. L. Stillman, who came in 1846 and remained one year. Dur- 
ing the pastorate of Rev. W. H.Washburn, 1883 I S8U, West chapel was built through the liber- 
ality of Hon. George West. 



198 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tect E. W. Loth of Troy, N. Y. , and erected under the supervision of 
Dennis Manogue of Ballston Spa. The foundation of this imposing 
structure was commenced July 39, 1895, this being the day that marked 
the close of a quarter of a century of active v^fork in priesthood by the 
pastor. Rev. Father B. J. McDonough. The church is situated at the 
corner of Milton avenue and Van Buren street. Its dimensions are: 
Length, one hundred and tw^enty-five feet; width, sixty-eight feet; 
gables, sixty feet high; tower, one hundred and seventj^-eight feet 
high. Its style is Gothic and its furnishings are in hard wood. 

The early schools of Ballston Spa and the establishment of the pres- 
ent Union school system under the direction of Prof. Thomas C. 
Bunyan have been described in a preceding chapter. In addition to 
the admirable public schools of the village, there is an excellent and 
well-patronized private school, which has been conducted for several 
years by Miss Almeda James. 

An institution which once gave promise of becoming an important 
feature among the many worthy enterprises of Saratoga count}' was 
the "State and National Law School," established by John W. Fowler 
in the old Sans Souci hotel at Ballston Spa in 1849. In his history of 
the Bench and Bar of Saratoga County Enos R. Mann refers to this 
school as follows: 

Mr. Fowler opened it with a full corps of competent professors and secured an 
abundant patronage. Among the graduates may be mentioned the names of Col. 
Slocum of the 1st Rhode Island Infantry, who fell at the head of his regiment fight- 
ing at Bull Run; Governor Gilbert C. Walker of Virginia, Judge Abraham R. Law- 
rence, Surrogate Delano C. Calvin and Gen. Roger A. Pryor of New York, and ex- 
Judge Samuel D. Morris of Brooklyn — an alumni that would reflect honor on any 
institution. At the commencement in 1850, there were present ex-President Van 
Buren, Governor Hamilton Fish, and the great Kentucky commoner, Henry Clay. 
The latter made a memorable address to the students, addressing through them for 
the last time the young men of America in words of earnest counsel to be true to 
themselves and their country. But the projector of this law school, to balance all 
his other attainments, lacked what Gen. McCook called a " level head." He was 
very improvident, knowing nothing of the financial problems conducive to success, 
and, after three years of active and useful life, the institution went into bankruptcy. 

Franklin lodge No. 90, F. & A. M., was chartered by the Grand lodge 
June 3, 1843. It succeeded and took the name of Franklin lodge No. 
37, which, founded in Ballston in 1794, forfeited its charter in 1834. 
Some of its original members were also identified with Friendship 
lodge No. 118, of Milton, which surrendered its charter in 1S3G.' 

' These lodges are referred to more at length in a preceding chapter. 



BALLSTON SPA, 1831—1861. 199 

For a period of seven years, from 1835 to 1843, there was no Masonic 
organization in Ballston Spa. Nearly all the members of Franklin 
lodge. No, 37, and of Friendship lodge, No. 118, became members of 
the new lodge, which has maintained its regular communications in 
this village to the present time. In the proceedings of the Grand 
lodge, under date of June 3, 18-i-^, is found the following: 

The Committee on warrants reported in favor of granting a warrant to constitute 
a Lodge at Ballston, in the county of Saratoga, by the name of Franklin Lodge, of 
which Bro. Wm Saunders is to be first Master; Bro. Wm. Hawkins, S. W., and Bro. 
Joseph Jennings, J. W., and that the property of the late Franklin Lodge, No. 37, 
be returned to said new Lodge, on payment of the usual fee for the Warrant. 

Franklin lodge has numbered among its members several brethren 
who have attained high positions among the fraternity, and in the 
civil walks of life. Of the latter Bro. James M. Cook, who received 
the Masonic degrees in this lodge, was for several years superintendent 
of the State Banking Department, and also represented his district in 
both houses of the State Legislature. He was buried with Masonic 
honors, and his remains now rest in the cemetery in this village. 
Among those whom the craft have delighted to honor, we find the names 
of W. Bro. George Babcock, at one time grand commander of the 
Knights Templar in this State; W. Bro. Seth Whalen, district deputy 
grand lecturer for two years, and master of the lodge for seven years; 
and R. W. Jonathan S. Smith, district deputy grand master.' 

* The first officers of Frankliu lodge, at the time of its organization, were; William Saunders, 
W. M.; William Hawkins, S. W.; Joseph Jennings, J. W. In 1S43 these officers held the same 
chairs, in addition to which William Ford was treasurer, Stephen Fo.x was secretary, Stephen 
Seaman was S. D., Reuben Thompson was J. D. and Joseph Kelso was tiler. Since that date the 
masters of this lodge have been: 1.S44, William Hawkins; 184.5, Joseph Jennings; 184(j, Abel Meeker; 
l(Mr, S. A. Emerson; 1848-1849, Reuben Westcot; 185U, Abel Meeker; 1851, Harvey N. Hill; 1^53, 
Abel Meeker; 1853, George Babcock; 1854, Harvey N. Hill; 185.5, Abel Meeker; 1850-186V, Harvey N. 
Hill; 1858, George H. Millham; 1859, George W. Ingalls; 180U-1863, Harvey N. Hill; 1863, S. H. 
Drake; 1884, P. G. Newcomb; 18«5, Graham Pulver; 18130-1867, Seth Whalen; 1868, Benjamin Allen; 
1869-1873, Seth Whalen; 1874, Jonathan S. Smith; 187.5, Albert J. Reid; 1876, Jonathan S. Smith; 
1877-1880. Edward K. Grose; 1881-18SJ, C. Fred Wheeler; 1883-1884, Frank Jones; 1885-1887, David 
Frisbie; 1888-1889, David H. Winnie; 1890, George W. Maxon; 1891, Davie Frisbie; 1893-1894, Will- 
iam Spencer; 1895-1890, Albert P. .Miller; 1897, Edward F. Grose; 1898, David Frisbie. 

Warren chapter No. 33, R. A. M., w.as organized March 30, 1809, in pursuance of a dispensation 
granted to Seth C. Baldwin and others. The preceding year the Mark Mason's lodge, to be known 
as Friendship No. 39, had been authorized. The latter ceased to exist when Friendship lodge, F. 
& A. M., surrendered its charter in 1835. No officers were elected by Warren chapter in 1813, and 
the Chapter remained dormant from 1828 to 1840, when William Hawkins was chosen H. P. for 
the balance of the year. The following is a list of the high priests of the chapter, with the year 
each was elected: 1809, Eliakim Corey; 1810, William Anthony; 1811, Amos Alcott; 1813, George H. 
Henham; 1814, Nathan D. Sherwood; 1815, Nathan W:irden; 1816, Philo Hurd; 1817 1818, William 
Hawkins; 1819, Philo Hurd; 1830, William Hawkins; 1831-1833, Jonath.an Edgecomb; 183;), William 
Clark; 1834 1836, L. B. Langworthy; 1837, John Dix; 1838, Jonathan Edgeconib; 1846, William Haw- 



200 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

A lodge of Odd Fellows was organized in Ballston January 9, 1844 
as Kayaderosseras lodge No. 17, I.O.O.F. The charter members were 
David Maxwell, Samuel H. Cook, William T. Odell, James G. Stebbins, 
William Smith and Edward Gilborne. ' 

Waterford made great industrial strides during the period from 1831 
to the beginning of the war of the Rebellion. During these thirty 
years a large number of manufacturing industries were established in 
town, some of which are still maintained on the same lines as those on 
which they were founded, though under different management. At 
the opening of this period several concerns were located near the 
hydraulic canal and elsewhere. The stock, die and tool works founded 
in 1839 by Daniel B. King, brother of Fuller King, the projector 
of the hydraulic canal; and the Waterford soap and candle factory, 
opened about 1830 by Joshua and Elisha Morse, were among the 
most important enterprises here at this time, aside from those men- 
tioned in an earlier chapter. It was in the buildings occupied by the 
latter concern that the great fire of 1841 began. Some time between 
1830 and 1834 the Franklin ink works were established. This plant 
subsequently was devoted to the manufacture of lamp black alone. The 
Button fire engine works, which since have become known as among 
the most celebrated in the United States, were established in 1834 by 
William Piatt & Co., L. Button being a member of that firm. The 
first works were located on the King hydraulic canal, but the site was 
afterward occupied by the Gage machine shop. In 1850 the Button 
concern abandoned water power and adopted steam in its place, mov- 
ing the plant to the foot of Third street. The Gage machine works, 
founded in 1835 by George Gage, were operated by him up to the time 

kins; 1847-1848, Reuben Westcot; 1.840, Abel Meeker; 1,850-1851, Harvey N. HiU; 1852, Reuben West- 
cot; 1853-1854, H.N. Hill; 18.55, Abel Meeker; 1856-1864, H. N. Hill; 186.5, Jesse S. L'Amoreaux; 1866- 
1809, Graham Pulver; 1870-1884, Jonathan S. Smith; 1885, George E. Terry; 1886. Edward F. Grose; 
1887-1891, William Spencer; 1892-1892, David Frisbie; 1894 to the present time, William Spencer. 

* The noble grands of this lodge, in the order of their service, were : Samuel H. Cook, David 
Maxwell, William P. Odell, P. H. Cowen, William Smith, Lorenzo Kelly, John J. Lee, Henry 
Wright, Edward Gilborne, G. V. Mix, Harrison Emerson, Squire Barrett, George Thompson, Sel- 
den A. Emerson, Spencer Twitchell, John McKown, John Wilder, James Ashman, James W. Mor- 
ris, Amos W. Cook, Daniel W. Culver, Abraham Carey, Lawrence W. Bristol, George Babcock, 
H. P. Jones, A. J. Goffe, Isaac D. Gibbons, H. C. Hakes, Edson O. Arnold, William W. Simmons, 
Cornell M. Noxon, Nelson H. Huested, Isaac H. Sears, James W. Culver, C. H.Van Valkenburgh, 
E. C. Poster, John C. Sullivan, Henry A. Mann, Burdick F. Davis, Joshua B. Boss, William W. 
Day, John H. Westcot, Edwin Miller, Josiah B. Hall, John C. Newman, John F. Bortles, James S. 
Clarrett, C. C. Hill, J. P. Weatherwax, E. A. Frisbie. This lodge was dissolved in 186.5, and five 
years later Kayaderosseras lodge No. 270 was instituted. Ballston Encampment, No. 72, organ- 
ized November 9, 1854, was continued but a few years. The Odd Fellows' lodge at Ballston owns 
a handsome building, containing lodge rooms and a commodious hall, built in 1891. 



WATERFORD. 1831—1861. 201 

of his death, a period of nearl}' half a century. They afterward became 
the property of members of his family. In the same year the man- 
ufacture of nuts was begun in a building owned by Mr. Gage, by a 
man named Brooks, and continued after the latter's death by his son. 
The year 1847 was also marked by the establishment of three impor- 
tant industries in the village. These were the stock and die factory 
founded by James Holroyd, for the manufacture of dies for the use 
of blacksmiths and machinists, and for gas and steam fitting; the Rock 
Island flouring mills, established by J. B. Enos & Co.. and the iron and 
brass foundry and machine shop founded by C. W. Eddy (afterward 
the Mohawk & Hudson Manufacturmg Co.'s plant). The first mills of 
J. B. Enos & Co. were burned in ISG"^ and new mills erected. Hol- 
royd's first buildings were torn down in 18G4, when new ones were 
built. 

About four o'clock on the afternoon of Saturday, July 11, ISil, fire 
was discovered in a stable in the rear of the Episcopal church on the 
west side of Third street, between Broad and Middle streets. A strong 
wind was blowing from the northwest and the sparks and flaming 
brands were carried across Third, Second and Broad streets. The 
village fire department had a hand engine, but its elTorts to stay the 
ravages of the fire were futile. When it was seen that the greater part 
of the village was doomed unless help were forthcoming, the near-by 
cities and villages were notified, and soon nine engines from Troy, 
Lansingburgh, Cohoes and West Troy were in the village directing 
their efforts toward subduing the flames. The fire was under control 
about six o'clock that evening, but not until the Episcopal church, 
twenty-eight stores, thirty residences and seventy other buildings had 
been reduced to ashes. The loss was estimated at over $150,000— not 
a large amount for these days, but a tremendous loss to Waterford in 
1841. 

Half a century ago — in 1848 — a number of Masons residing in Water- 
ford, applied for and obtained a dispensation from the grand master of 
the State of New York and proceeded to organize a lodge of Master 
Masons. Of those who formed the new lodge, which was instituted 
December 28, 1848, as Clinton lodge. No. 140, F. & A. M., seven were 
members of Phoenix lodge No. 58 of Lansingburgh and two were 
brethren from Old Orange lodge No. 43, which was in existence long 
before the great anti-Masonic excitement which followed the my.sterious 
disappearance of William Morgan of Batavia in' 182G. James M. 



202 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Austin was the first master of the newly organized lodge. His great 
ability and untiring zeal for the welfare of the new lodge singularly 
qualified him for the position, which he held for four consecutive years. 
He afterward became grand secretary of the Grand lodge of the State 
of New York. The other officers on the foundation were: John 
Hinde, S. W. ; John Fulton, J. W. ; F. W. Allen, secretary; John 
Higgins, treasurer; Joseph H. Cudworth, S. D. ; John Mulliken, J. D. ; 
vSamuel Landsborough, S. M. C. ; Joseph M. King, J. M. C. ; John Roe, 
tiler. Following is a complete list of the masters of Clinton lodge, in 
the order in which they held office: 

James M. Austin, John Fulton, John Higgins, Rev. R. L. Schoonmaker (after- 
ward grand chaplain of the Grand lodge), D. M. Van Hovenberg, Edward Lansing, 
Thomas Breslin, Russell Porter, S. A. Northrup, Horace T. Stiles, William Hum- 
phreys, Marvin T. Scott, John E. < Jage, John Polhamus, Henry De Freest, Emanuel 
Mead, George L. Rogers, Frank B. Barnfather, Roland H. Stubbs, M. D., Charles 
L. Mitchell. George E. Holroyd, William A. Dennis, John W. Ford, Samuel Snyder, 
William Roberts, Samuel Snyder, William Saxe. 

Charles H. \'anderwerker, secretary of Clinton lodge, has served in 
that office for sixteen consecutive years. During that time he has also 
been secretary of Waterford chapter. 

Waterford chapter No. 169, R. A. M., connected with Clinton lodge, 
was organized February 14, 1800. 

The most iiuportant venture in the industrial line in the village of 
Mechanicville during this period was the establishment of the American 
Linen Thread company's plant in 1850 by a company of which Samuel 
Chase was president and Lewis E. Smith secretary, treasurer and gen- 
eral manager. Power was derived from Anthony's kill, which also 
supplied a grist mill owned by this company. A preparing mill, a saw 
mill, with sixteen acres of land and about forty-five tenement houses, 
were also owned by this company, the location of whose plant at that 
point undoubtedly did more toward the upbuilding of the village of 
Mechanicville than any other enterprise up to that period. The village 
as it stands to-day is of practically modern growth, and more extended 
reference to its industries has been left for a succeeding chapter. 

The town of Halfmoon, in which part of Mechanicville is situated, 
had excellent educational facilities in these days. Among the town 
superintendents of common schools, imder the then existing laws, were: 
James B. McKean, 1844; Reuben Stewart, 1845; Nathan F. Philo, 
184G; George W. Peake, 1847-1850; Nathan F. Philo, 1851; John O. 



MECHANICVILLE, 1831— 1801. 303 

Mott, 1852; John Cassid)% 1854-1856. Beginning with June, 1856, 
supervision by assembly districts followed. The most noted school in 
Mechanicville in these days was the Mechanicville academy, which wag 
founded in 1800. This institution was situated on Main street, near 
the Hudson river, and was at first surrounded by a beautiful grove. 
Lewis Smith, prominent as a manufacturer and a public spirited cit- 
izen, was the first president of the academy, Rev. Edward Noble the 
secretary, J. Wesley Ensign the treasurer, and the remaining trustees 
were Isaac Clements, B. B. Hutchins, Isaac M. Smith, Joseph Baker, 
John C. Holmes, Samuel B. Howland, E. A. Lindley, Bloom Baker 
and Robert Moon. The school enjoyed a prosperous career for many 
3'ears. ' 

The First Baptist church of Halfmoon, at Middletown, which was 
organized about 1835, was one of the successors of the old church at 
Newtown. The latter society had ceased to exist and its house of 
worship had been torn down several years when the society at Middle- 
town was organized. Rev. Elisha D. Hubbell first served the Middle- 
town church as pastor. The house of worship was built in 1834-1835 
and dedicated in the latter year. St. Paul's Roman Catholic church of 
Mechanicville was organized in 1845, and a church edifice was erected 
in 1853. The Presbyterian church of Mechanicville sprang from the 
Congregational church of Stillwater, which worshiped in the old 
"yellow meeting-house " referred to more at length in an earlier chap- 
ter. The two societies worshiped together for many years. 

In 1852 the Crescent Methodist Episcopal church w'as organized by 
the election of these trustees: William Carey, John B. Schermerhorn, 
Silas H. Sweetland, Seymour Birch and Nathan F. Philo. The first 
house of worship was dedicated in the winter of 1853 by Bishop Janes. 
Until 1859 Crescent was alone as a pastoral charge, but in the latter 
year it was united to the Halfmoon circuit. In 1865 it was again made 
a distinct charge. 

The earliest secret society in Halfmoon was the Odd Fellows' lodge, 

* Bernice D. Ames, for many years principal of the Mechanicville academy, was born at Shore- 
ham, Vt., December 36, 18IT, and died at Mechanicville. January .5, 1876. He was graduated from 
Middlebury college, Middlebury, Vt., when twenty-six years old. During the next three years 
he was professor of Latin and Greek in the seminaries at Fort Plain and Fort Edward, N. Y. 
During I8(i3 and 1864 he was principal of the Providence Conference seminary at East Greenwich, 
R. I. He became principal of the Mechanicville academy in 1868 and continued in that position 
until his death in 1876, when his widow, Sarah E. King-Ames, was elected to succeed him. She 
remained as principal until 1889, when the academy building was btrrned and the career of the in- 
stitution closed. 



304 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

established at Mechanicville September 4, 1845, as Mechanicville North 
Star lodge No. 174. James Lee was the first noble grand. This lodge 
ceased to exist after a career of about ten years. A division of the 
Sons of Tempei'ance was organized at Mechanicville about 1848. This, 
too, ceased to exist after a few years.' 

The village of Stillwater always has been more or less noted for its 
manufactures, though these were limited in number until after the 
middle of the present century. The mills of the Schuyler family lo- 
cated at this point were of considerable importance for many years. 
After they were burned in 1817 Philip J. Schuyler built a new mill, 
part of which was used as a grist mill and part as a clothipg mill. A 
new saw mill was also erected there about the same time. In 1838 
Ephraim Newland and John F. Wetsell purchased the entire Schuyler 
property at that point and continued the mills this family had owned 
for so many years. At this time Stillwater had been a place of consid- 
erable importance for several years. In 1833 a wooden bridge ° had 
been erected across the Hudson, and this brought to the village a -great 
deal of trade from the east side of the river, which up to that time had 
gone to Fort Edward, Schuylerville or Troy. About 1847 the local indus- 
tries were increased by the erection of a paper mill by William Mosher 
and Elihu Allen. They employed about a dozen hands, beginning" 
their work by manufacturing wall paper. These were the principal 
industries of the place until after the beginning of the war of 1861-1865. 

During this period an academy was conducted for several years in 
Stillwater. This institution, known as the Stillwater academy, was 
founded about 1847, and for a while was under the care of the Regents 
of the University of the State of New York. The brick building it 
occupied stood near the Baptist church. Almon Richards was its 
principal for a long term of years. This finally became a private semi- 
nary, which declined, and the building was used for the occupancy of 
select schools until the organization of the union school system in 1873. 

The Second Baptist church of Stillwater was the only religious soci- 
ety organized during this period of three decades. The society was 
organized by members of the First Baptist church in 1830, and the first 

' In 18CIJ another division was organized with E. O. Howland as W. P., Dr. F. K. Lee as W. A., 
George R. Moore as secretarj', and J. Frank Terry as conductor. The charter was surrendered 
February 25, 1869, when Union lodge No. 83G, Independent Order of Good Templars, was organ- 
ized, with J. Frank Terry as chief templar. This lodge gave up its charter at the end of a year. 

" This bridge, with the hotel near by, w.is burned in 187.5. Tlie following year .in iron bridge 
was erected in its place. 



SCHUYLERVILLE, 1831—1861. 205 

house of worship, in the village of Stillwater, was dedicated February 
23, 1837, Rev. Dr. Weatch of Albany preaching- the sermon.' 

Three Masonic bodies existed in Stillwater between 1791 and the 
anti-Masonic movement of 1830. Reference is made to them in an 
earlier chapter. Montgomery lodge No. 501, F. & A. M., was in- 
stituted June 27, 1860, by a dispensation from the Grand lodge. The 
charter officers were: Rev. W. J. Heath, W. M. ; P. Mosher, S. W. ; 
D. F. Wetzel, J. W. ; John A. Quackenbush, treasurer; H. H. Mont- 
gomery, secretary; John V. W. Vandenburgh, S. D. ; H. Badgley, J. 
D. ; Nathan Taylor and George K. Deming, masters of ceremonies; J. 
W. Buffington, tiler." 

Schuylerville, like Stillwater, is and for many years has been princi- 
pally noted for its manufactures. Nearly, perhaps quite a century and 
a half have passed since the pioneer Schuylers established their first 
mills on the site of the historic village which has since borne the name 
of that noted family. Philip Schuyler, a descendant of the original 
manufacturer, built a large mill a little further south in 1828, which, 
in 1857, was purchased by the Saratoga Victory Manufacturing com- 
pany and for many years operated as a cotton factory by this corpora- 
tion. This company established its first mills at Victory Mills in 1846, 
the original capital invested being about $125,000. The works have 
been greatly increased and improved since that year, over half a cen- 
tury since.' Lawrence's old woolen factory was another important in- 
dustry of these days. It was located in Philip Schuyler's old distillery 
building. In a part of the same building and the basement of the 
woolen factory adjoining, David B. French of Argyle, N. Y., estab- 

' After having been used by this society for thirty-five years, the first house of worship was 
abandoned and a new one dedicated September .'i, 1S7.S, during tlie pastorate of Rev. Thomas Cull, 
Rev. John Peddie preached the dedicatory sermon. The pastors of the church have been: Revs. 
Isaac Westcott, from organization to January 12^ 1851; M. G. Hodge, June 7, 18.51, to March i5, 18.54; 
A. A. Sawin, May iB, 18.55, to February 1, ISoG; J. I. Fulton, April 20, 18.50, to March 1, 1850; J. O. 
Mason, July 31, 18.59, to August 1. 1800; J. C. Stevens, November .3, 18B0, to May 1, 1865: Charles J. 
Shritnpton, June 24, 180.5. to October :30, 180!t; Thomas Cull. November 5, 1870, to May 10, 1871; Dr. 
Thomas MacClymont, September 20, 1874, to October 1. 1S77; Dr. Isaac Westcott, supply March 2, I81'8, 
to .September 6, 187!l; Daniel Corey, November 1, 18T'.», to September 20. 1881; Albert I'. Brigham, 
August 27, 1882, to .September fi, I8&5; Edson J. Farley. April 2!l, 1889, to January 19, 1898; Holland 
J. Thompson, May T, 1893, to October 1, 1895; Harvey W. Choller, April 1, 1890, to the present time. 
In 1885 a parsonage was erected at a cost of S.3,'K)fl. 

2 Montgomery chapter was instituted by a dispensation grantetl November 28. 1H70 ; but the 
charter was not granted until February 8, 1871. The first officers of the chapter were : D. Van 
Wie, H. P.; P. Van Veghten, K.; C. S. Ensign, scribe; J. G. Lansmg, treasurer ; I,. Vandemark, 
secretary. 

3 The plant of this company is a very extensive one, omployi!i? liiindreds of hands. In 1897 
its real estate holdings alone were assessed at $270,.500. 

t 



206 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

lished an iron foundry in 1832. This became one of the most impor- 
tant foundries north of Albany.' 

The rapid and substantial development of the manufactures of Schuy- 
lerville and Victory Mills resulted in a demand for home banking 
facilities. Therefore, in 1853 William Wilcox opened a private bank 
having a capital of $50,000. Three years later it was merged into an 
organized institution known as the Bank of Old Saratoga. This con- 
cern had a capital of $100,000. William Wilcox was president and 
Giles S. Brisbin was cashier. 

Among the local organizations formed in this period was Battle 
Ground Division No. 247, Sons of Temperance, organized April 19, 
1817, numbered several prominent men among its members. George 
Strover was the first presiding officer. The other charter members 
were Walter Mott, Richard S. Sheldon, Joseph T. Smith, John A. Clapp, 
James G. Stebbins, Joseph Darby, John B. Brisbin and William Be- 
ment. This society suspended its meetings after a career of three years. 

St. Stephen's Protestant Episcopal church of Schuylerville dates 
from 1838, when Rev. Reuben Hubbard began conducting services 
from house to house. From 1844 to 1850 services were held in the 
academy building. The society was formally organized March 2, 184G, 
when these officers were chosen : Wardens, Jesse Finne and James Pick- 
ering; vestrymen, John Finne, Joseph Finne, Benjamin Losee, James 
Pickering, George N. Gates, James E. Stebbins, John R. Preston and 
Henry W. Merrill. The cornerstone of the house of worship was laid 
Tuesday, June 2, 1868, Dr. Charles H. Payne having donated the 
amount required for its construction. The stone was laid by Rev. P. 
B. Gibson, and Rev. J. Ireland Tucker of Troy preached the dedicatory 
sermon. The ground on which the church was erected was the gift of 
the Victory Manufacturing Co. The edifice was opened for worship 
Christmas day," 1868, and consecrated by Rt. Rev. William C. Doane, 
bishop of Albany, February 24, 1870. 

The Church of the Visitation (Roman Catholic) was established dur- 
ing this period. A congregation existed as early as 1850. Father 

' Mr. I'lench retired in 1S6B, being succeeded by David Craw & Co. 

' The society was without a rector from 1850 to 188", when Rev. George Fisher began a two 
years' pastorate. The subsequent rectors have been : Rev. John H. Babcock, who came April 
ao, 18T0 ; Rev. John Walker, June 5, 18T0 ; Rev. Dr. George W. Deane, October 19, 1875 ; Rev. 
h'. C. E.'costello, September 18, 1880 ; Rev. George L. Neide, 1881-1884 ; Rev. H. C. Hutohings, 1884- 
188B ; Rev. Allan B. Clark, June 27, 1886, to July 1, 1888 ; Rev. J. F. Esch, January 1, 1800, to July 1, 
1892 ' Rev. W. F. Parsons, July 1, 1892, to 1896 ; Rev. Eleulheros Jay Cooke, Dec. 1, 1896, to present 
time. 



MILTON, 1831—1801. 207 

Roach was the first resident priest the parish had. The first land was 
purchased in 1850, being two lots, from Hugh Thorp and Deborah, his 
wife, by deed, dated March 4, 1850. These lots were purchased in the 
name of Bishop McCloskey. The second two lots were purchased by 
Father Tull September 13, 1854, from Michael Kelly and wife of Schuy- 
lerville. A temporary church had been built in 1850. The parish had 
no resident priest till 1860. These lots purchased by Father Tull, were, 
on December 37, 1859, deeded to Bishop McCloskey. Father Tull re- 
mained but two years and was succeeded in 1861 by Father H. B. Fin- 
negan. He remained till his death, October 18, 1883.' 

In the town of Milton there was considerable industrial development 
during the three decades from 1831 to 1861. In 1840 Rowland & Kil- 
mer built a large paper mill at Rock City Falls, on the bank of the 
Kayaderosseras. This mill was burned in 1844, and was rebuilt the 
following year, by Kilmer & Ashmun. This firm was almost imme- 
diately succeeded by Buchanan & Kilmer, and later by Harlow, Kilmer 
& Co. Upon the death of Mr. Kilmer it was sold to George West of 
Ballston Spa. About 1846 Isaac Rowland, jr., remodeled the old grist 
mill at Rock City Falls and converted it into a paper mill. The enter- 
prise did not succeed at first and was sold soon after its establishment 
to Buchanan & Kilmer. It subsequently became the property of 
Chauncey Kilmer & Son. This was the second mill in the United 
States which entered upon the manufacture of straw print. For many 
years Samuel Haight conducted an e.xtensive tannery at Milton Centre, 
employing about a hundred hands.' At Craneville a paper mill was 
established about 1860. It subsequently became the property of Hon. 

' The old church was burned in 1870, and all the old records were destroyed. The cornerstone 
of the present structure was laid in 1873 by Bishop Conroy of Albany. Father McGuirc of St. 
Patrick's church of Albany delivered the sermon. In 1873 Rev. Father McNierney of Albany and 
Rev. J. J. Swift of Troy succeeded in raising $50,IXK) towards paying for the new edifice. Father 
Finnegan died October 18, 1883, and was succeeded by Rev. Francis McGuire, now rector of the 
cathedral at Albany. He remained four years, namely, to 1887, when Rev. J. J. Heffernan, on 
March 4, 1887, came to the parish. 

The congregation of Notre Dame church (French Roman Catholic) was formed by .seventy- 
five or eighty families from Victory Mills, Thomson's Mills and Schuylerville, in I88il. Many of 
them had formerly been members of the Church of the Visitation. The new congregation was 
greatly encouraged by the Victory Manufacturing Co., which donated a lot on which to erect a 
house of worship. Work upon the church was begun in the tall of 18.89 and the structure was ded- 
icated by Rt. Rev. Francis McNierney, bishop of Albany, May 30, 1890. Father Peneaux was then 
the priest in charge. He has been succeeded in turn by Father Patreau, Father Vellevue and 
Father Prud'homme. 

2 This industry is now located at Ballston Spa, where it is conducted by Theodore S. Haight 
and Vassar Haight, sons of the founder of the business. Matthew Vassar, for many years a mem- 
ber of the firm, retired in 1898- 



208 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

George West. The manufacturing plants at Bloodville and Factory 
village, in operation during this period, have been referred to in a pre- 
ceding chapter. 

March 2, 1844r, a number of persons who affiliated with the Methodi.st 
Episcopal denomination met at Rock City Falls and organized a church 
there. March 9 the following were chosen as trustees; Seth Whalen, 
Charles R. Lewis, Joshua Swan, James Mcintosh and Harlow Kilmer. 
A house of worship was begun in May of that year and completed in 
time for occupancy in the fall. This house of worship was the suc- 
cessor of an older one built at Swan's Corners in 1811. 

Ballston has always been an agricultural town principally, and there 
is little to be said of its history during these thirty years. In 1848 a 
paper mill was established at Burnt Hills. The employes were princi- 
pally Englishmen, most of whom were members of the Church of Eng- 
land, and soon after their arrival they organized Calvary Protestant 
Episcopal church. This society was incorporated May 7, 1849, princi- 
pally through the efforts of Rev. Edward Davis and Cady Hollister, the 
proprietor of the paper mill. The house of worship was completed in 
the summer of 1849 at an expense of $3,500, a large part of which sum 
was given by Rev. Mr. Davis, and the first service therein was held on 
Christmas day of that year. July 11, 1850, the church was consecrated 
by Rt. Rev. William R. Whittingham, bishop of Maryland. It was 
considerably enlarged and improved in 1858. The rectory, built in 
1856, was presented by the family of Mr. Davis. The first wardens of 
the parish were Daniel K. Smith and William Wheeler,' 

The Christian church at East Line was founded about 1858. The 
celebrated Rev. Josiah G. Holland preached the dedicatory sermon.' 
The society died out after an existence of about fifteen years, when the 
church was abandoned. This society originated among members of the 
Christian church at Burnt Hills, which was established about 1848. 

The tremendous water power furnished by the falls in the Hudson 
river where it passes along the northern boundary of the town of Cor- 
inth was utilized for manufacturing purposes at an early day; but, as 
has been told in earlier pages, from 1830 to 1850 the early mills built 
at that point were not operated. In the latter year Thomas Brown of 
Niagara Falls purchased the property, built a large raceway to con- 

' Rev. Edward Davis served as the rector of Calvary church until a short time before his 
death in 1803, acting as rector of the church at Charlton at the same time. 

'' Mr. Holland was an editor of the Springfield. Mass., Republican at this time. He afterward 
became editor-in-chief of Scribner's Monthly, of which he was one of the founders. 



EDINBURGH, 1831—1861. 209 

duct the water to his works, and then constructed a plant for the 
manufacture of edged tools. He began to operate this plant in 1860, 
but the Civil war causing a great rise in the price of iron and labor, the 
concern was closed, and no further industrial development took place 
there until the close of the war. In 1855 Powell & Co. built a small 
tannery at South Corinth, on the Kayaderosseras creek. 

The Methodist Episcopal church of Corinth was not erected until the 
summer of 1858, though a class had been formed there as early as 1830 
and meetings held in the meanwhile. In September, 1858, the church 
was dedicated, Rev. Mr. Robinson preaching the sermon. Rev. P. M. 
Hitchcock was pastor at that time. The Sunday school connected 
with the church was established in 1850. 

Corinth lodge No. 174, I. O. O. F., was chartered August 7, 1853, the 
first officers being: N. G., Darling P. Mallery; V. G., Zina Mallery; R. 
S., Luke C. Bartlett; F. S., William Ide; warden, Silas Allen; con- 
ductor, John M. Ellsworth. 

Charlton always has been essentially an agricultural town, with few 
manufactures. Among the churches of the town the Methodist Epis- 
copal society was organized about 1838. Among the pastors have 
been Rev. John H. Coleman, Rev. S. S. Ford and Rev. David T. 
Elliott. 

Galwaj^'s principal industry being agriculture, little is to be said of 
the development of the town in the middle period. The manufactures 
have always been few and not very important. At Mosherville a 
foundry and plow shop was established about 1847. There is the usual 
complement of saw mills, grist mills and wagon shops. The Methodist 
Episcopal church at East Galway, organized in 1858 as a class by Rev. 
J. B. Wood, was an offshoot of the church at Rock City Falls. Philip 
Smith was the first class leader, and he and William Cole, F. Walter, 
W. T. Crouch, S. V. R. White, Enos Mead, John Tubbs, Peter P. 
Smith and Pardon Allen constituted the first board of trustees. The 
house of worship was erected and dedicated in 1859, the dedicatory 
sermon being delivered by Rev. Taylor Lewis of Troy. 

Three wooden ware factories located at Batchellerville were the prin- 
cipal industries established in the town of Edinburgh before the war. 
That village at one time was quite prosperous and gave promise of be- 
coming a village of considerable size and importance. In 1833 the 
place consisted of a saw mill, a grist mill and two dwellings. In that 
year Ambrose Batcheller bought the mills, and the place became known 

14 



210 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

as Batchellerville. In 1837 Sherman and Samuel Batcheller built a 
shop for the manufacture of wooden ware. This shop was burned and 
rebuilt in 1851, and again in 1859. In 1848 a saw mill which stood on 
the site occupied by the wooden ware factory of Lucien De Golia was 
torn down and the latter establishment erected. This building was 
burned about 1888. Sherman Batcheller built another factory in 1853, 
which became the property of Mr. De Golia five years later. In 1865 
Samuel Batcheller sold his factory to Benjamin R. Jenkins, who in 
turn sold it to Noyes & Early, Mr. Jenkins removing to Conklingville. 
In 1860 Henry C. Whitney purchased of Sherman Batcheller the fac- 
tory the latter had built in 1853. In 1864 it was sold to Cyrus Sumner, 
in 1868 to George S, Batcheller, in 1869 to King, Steers & Person, and 
in 1870 to King, Snow & Co. In 1858 Levi Porter and Lucien De 
Golia began the manufacture of washboards in the old factory bought 
of Sherman and Samuel Batcheller. The dam and shop were destroyed 
by a flood in 1863. Immediately afterward Mr. De Golia built a large 
establishment a short distance farther down the stream. This was 
burned in 1876, but immediately reconstructed. All these buildings 
have since been burned. 

Malta's industries have always been small, excepting farming. Grist 
mills and saw mills have existed since the early settlement of the town, 
but little attempt at other manufactures has ever been made. The 
Presbyterian society organized at Malta in 1843 was the outgrowth of 
the Presbyterian society of East Ballston, founded in 1793. The old 
Union church at Maltaville is said to have been built and dedicated in 
1806. A number of men were out working on the road, and while they 
were resting some one proposed that they build a church. Before they 
left the subject that day they had laid their plans where to build, of 
what size and style, and that they would get what oak timber they 
needed from an oak grove that stood some distance north and west of 
the spot where they built. There was also plenty of yellow pine in the 
place then, so that they did not lack for material of the best sort; the 
small timbers of the floor, braces, etc., were sawed at the mill close by. 
The first existing record of the church was made March 8, 1821. The 
members, differing very little in their discipline, agreed to come under 
the Presbyterian rule. They were mostly Congregationalists from New 
England and descendants of the old Dutch called Dutch Reformed. 
In 1837 Rev. Clark Lockwood became pastor. In 1842 he was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Thomas Rawson of Albany. He was followed the next 



MOREAU. 1831—1861. 311 

year by Rev. Prentice W. Marsh, underwho.se pastorate a Presbyterian 
church at Dunning Street was built and under the control and integral 
part of this society at Malta, till, according to this record, the society 
divided February 15, 1845, and the old church took the name of the 
Congregational society of Malta. The new church was made ready for 
use previous to ISi-t. The house of worship, upon the disbanding of 
the Presbyterian society, was occupied for several years by the local 
Methodists. The building is now in ruins. 

In Northumberland the Methodist Episcopal church of Gansevoort 
was erected in 1839 and the Reformed church of the same place the 
year following. The Methodist Episcopal society had then been or- 
ganized for several years. The corner stone of the Reformed church 
was laid in June, 1840, and the edifice was dedicated February 4, 1841. 
Rev. John Birkley was the first pastor. 

Home lodge No. 398, F.& A. M., was organized June 28, 185G. The 
first master was Gilbert Purdy, and the other charter members were 
Robert Washburn, P. D. Esmond, H. Reynolds, M. D., Jeremiah Ter- 
hune, John Terhune, John Burke, Payne K. Burt, George W. Lincoln 
H. D. Curtiss and David De Garmo. 

The history of the industrial development of the town of Hadley dur- 
ing this period is practically a history of the village of Conklingville. 
This village was founded in 1848 by Gurdon Conkling, who, beginning 
that year, built there a large tannery, a store, a hotel and several resi- 
dences. Twenty years before a dam and two saw mills had been built, 
but it was left for Mr. Conkling properly to develop the resources of 
the locality. The first dam, with the mill at the south end, built in 
1831 by Isaac Barber, was carried away by a flood in 1848, when the 
new industries were at once established by Mr. Conkling. Within a 
dozen years the place had grown to considerable proportions, and sup- 
ported a variet\' of manufacturing industries. Gurdon Conkling's tan- 
nery, built in 1848, subsequently was operated by several different pro- 
prietors. It employed a large number of hands from the beginning, 
tanning hides which came from all parts of the world. 

The Wesleyan Methodist church of Hadley was organized in 1844, 
when Walter R. Sutliff was chosen class leader. The house of worship 
was built in 1845. 

Aside from agriculture, the industrial development of Moreau during 
this period was confined principally to the village of South Glens Falls 
and vicinity, where a number of lumber mills were established. The 



313 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

village was laid out in 1837. Folsom's cotton factor)-, which burned 
in 1833, for many years was an extensive plant. 

In 1843 a Methodist class was organized at South Glens Falls, but it 
was 1869 before a chapel for worship was erected. The Methodist 
Episcopal church at Fortsville was founded during this period. 

The manufacturing industries of Greenfield have never been very 
important. At Porter's Corners Asahel Porter had a distillery and tan- 
nery, which long since were burned. In 1836 John W. James built a 
dam across the Kayaderosseras creek at Jamesville (which was named 
in his honor) and erected a paper mill — the first mill built in this county 
for the manufacture of paper by machinery. He also built several 
residences for the use of his employes. About twenty years afterward 
he failed in business and returned to New York, where he previously 
had been in business. Soon afterward the mill was rebuilt, but was 
again burned, when the vacant power was purchased by West & Brown. 
A glass factory was also established in the northwestern part of the 
town about 18.50, and about it sprang up a little village named Mount 
Pleasant. This industry subsequently was removed to a point on the 
Delaware & Hudson railroad just south of Saratoga Springs, and Mount 
Pleasant was abandoned. 

Among the churches of this town, the Methodist Episcopal church of 
Greenfield Centre was built in 1840, and dedicated by Rev. Charles 
Sherman December 22 of that year. Class meetings had been held for 
many years prior to that date. In 1836 a class was formed at South 
Greenfield, and the j'ear following a house of worship was erected, be- 
ing dedicated in August, 1837, by Rev. Noah Levings of Schenectady. 
This church ceased to exist in 1847. In 1850 the building was sold to 
a Unitarian society, which moved it to the town of Milton. The Meth- 
odist Episcopal church at Porter's Corners was formed in 1840. The 
site for a house of worship was donated by General Isaac I. Yates, and 
the structure erected in 1845. The Baptist church of Jamesville, 
which sprang from the society which worshiped in the old stone church 
at Milton, was organized April 4, 1840. The house of worship was 
built by the united society in 1839. Rev. Samuel R. Shotwell was the 
first pastor. 

In the town of Day, a tannery was built at Croweville in 1S5C by 
William Fowler, who sold it three years later to Crowe & Kyne. It 
gave employment to from fifteen to twenty hands. In 1833 a woolen 
factory was built on Paul creek by John B. Yates, but it went to_decay 



CLIFTON PARK, 1831—1861. ' 213 

nearly half a century since. Lumbering for many years was one of the 
principal industries of the town. 

Though its house of worship was not erected until 1845-1846, the 
First Christian church of Day was organized by Elder H. V. Teal 
November 18, 1833. Rev. Elias Sloat was the first pastor. The Re- 
formed Protestant Dutch church of Day was organized by Rev. Dr. 
Andrew Yates, at Day Centre, November 14, 1843. A stone church 
was built two years later, at a cost of $3,000. Upon the completion of 
the structure the Board of Domestic Missions of the Reformed Presby- 
terian Dutch church installed Rev. J. A. Lansing as pastor.' The 
Second Christian church, afterwards called the Christian church of 
West Day, was formed December 19, 1857, by Revs. Elias Sloat and 
Latham Coffin. The house of worship was commenced in 1861, but 
was not completed until December, 1865, when it was dedicated by 
Rev. W. B. H. Beach. 

Wilton being an agricultural town little is to be said of its industrial 
or commercial growth. It is worthy of note, however, that an attempt 
was made in 1859 to found a permanent academy in town. In that 
year Stephen Fradenburgh of Moreau came to Wiltonville and erected 
a building west of the village. In it he opened a school in the fall of 
1859, calling it Wilton academy. After a precarious existence of about 
two years the enterprise failed for want of financial support. 

The Loudon Protestant Methodist church of South Wilton, an offshoot 
from the Methodist Episcopal church, built a house of worship in 1833. 
Deyoe Esmond was an early preacher. 

Clifton Park, too, is an agricultural town principally, its other indus- 
tries being unimportant. The town formerly supported an excellent 
educational institution, known as the Jonesville academy. This insti- 
tution was founded by Roscius R. Kennedy. It originated in a small 
select school opened in 1836 by Mrs. Roger King. In 1840 the school 
was removed to the premises where the academy was finally located, 
where John Oakley of New York opened it for boarding pupils. In 
that j'ear a brick building was erected, suitable for the accommodation 
of fifty boarding pupils. In 1841, with Prof. Hiram A. Wilson" as 

' From IS.')" to 18(i7 tlic church was without a pastor. In June of the latter year it was decided 
to change the society into a purely Presbyterian one, and to join the Albany presbytery. Rev. 
David Edgar became the first pastor of the reorganized society. 

2 Hiram A. Wilson, son of Abijah Wilson, was born in Winchester, Conn., December 19, 1812; 
graduated from Wesleyan university at Middletown, Conn., in IS.'JS ; sailed the same year for 
Buenos Ayres, where for two years he conducted the first missionary school in that city. He 



214 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

principal, it was formally opened as an academy. He remained in 
charge until 1860. In 1849 the academy was incorporated and passed 
under the protection of the Regents. Upon the retirement of Prof. 
Wilson these persons acted as principals: Rev. Messrs. B. M. Hall, 
Austin, Fenner, King, Brino, Kempton and Savage. The institution 
became financially embarrassed in 1870 and was compelled to give up 
its charter, and six years later closed its career. Roscius R. Kennedy, 
the founder, who became sole trustee upon its incorporation, was for 
many years the principal support of the academy. 

October 8, 1836, the M. E. Church at Rexford's Flats, in Clifton 
Park, was organized, the first ofificers being William Shepherd, Roscius 
R. Kennedj-, Nathan D. Garnsey, Henry M. Hayner and Luther B. 
Orcutt. The house of worship, erected the following year, was ded- 
icated December 9, 1840. 

Half a dozen saw mills and grist mills and one or two tanneries com- 
prised the bulk of the industries of Providence up to the time of the 
war, aside from farming. Two churches were organized in the town 
during the period under discussion. One of these was the Protestant 
Methodist church at West Providence, which was formed in 1841-1843. 
Rev. Peter Esmond was the first pastor. The church was built about 
one and one-half miles northeast of Hagedorn's Mills.' The other 
church was the Christian church at Barkerville, an offshoot of the Gal- 
'way church, and was organized May 3, 1845. The house of worship 
was built that year and dedicated in the spring of 1846, Rev. Allen 
Hayward preaching the sermon. 

The Saratoga County Agricultural society was organized in the court 
house at Ballston Spa June 34, 1841, in accordance with a law passed 
May 15, of that j'ear, providing for the formation of agricultural so- 
cieties in the various counties of the State. At this meeting Howell 
Gardiner of Greenfield was appointed chairman and Archibald Smith 

then returned home ; ilay 12, 1S41, married Hannah Bosworth of West Hartland. Conn., and in 
the fall of that year became principal of the Jonesville academy, remaining nearly twenty years. 
He then removed to Brattleboro, Vt., where he became superintendent of public instruction. In 
1863 he removed to Saratoga Springs, where he spent the remainder of his life. There he became 
president of the board of education and took an active part in the founding of the present public 
school system of that village. He was actively interested in the building of the M. E. church 
there. In the first general conference of the M. E. church wliioh admitted lay delegates (in 1872J 
Prof. Wilson was one of the two lay delegates representing the Troy conference. 

* After an existence of thirty years this society died out in the fall of IS71, when a Methodist 
Episcopal society was organized, and the church property passed into its hands. Henry T. Tre- 
vett and John Shanley were the first trustees, and Rev. Julius Stewart the first pastor. This so- 
ciety, too, finally died out. 



SARATOGA COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. 215 

of Ballston Spa secretary. Calvin Wheeler, A. J. Chadsey, Judiah Ells- 
worth, Increase Hoyt and John A. Corey were made a committee to 
draft a constitution and by-laws. The first officers of the society, 
chosen at that meeting', were: 

President, Howell Gardiner, Greenfield; first vice-president, Calvin Wheeler, Provi- 
dence; second vice-president, Jacob Denton, Saratoga Springs; treasurer, Hiram E. 
Howard, Milton; corresponding secretary, Archibald Smith, Ballston Spa; recording 
secretary, John A. Corey, Saratoga Springs; executive committee, Isaac Curtis, 
Stephen Merchant, Ballston; John Low, Henry Ostrom, Charlton; Abijah Peck, jr., 
Henry Palmer, Clifton Park; David Rogers, Edward Edwards, Corinth; E. M. Day, 
Amos Hunt, Day; Samuel Batcheller, Ira Beecher, Edinburgh; Jesse H. Mead, 
Jeremiah Wbitlock, Galway; Joseph Daniels, Henry Lincoln, Greenfield; Charles 
Stewart, Harmon Rockwell, Hadley; N. G. Philo, Stephen R. Smith. Halfmoon ; 
John Tallmadge, Seneca Hall, Malta; Seth Whalen, George B. Powell, Milton; 
Thomas S. Mott, G. P. Reynolds, Moreau; Walter Doty, Coles Golden, Northumber- 
land; William V. Clark, Seymour St. John, Providence; Henry D. Chapman, William 
Wilcox, Saratoga; P. H. Cowen, John H. Beech, Saratoga Springs; Lewis Smith, 
Yates Lansing, Stillwater; John Knickerbacker, John Cramer 2d, Waterford; John 
Morris, Duncan McGregor, Wilton. 

For the first two or three years the annual fairs of the society were 
held at Ballston Spa, when the society located at Saratoga Springs. 
The grounds and buildings thereon were sold in 1870, and in the fol- 
lowing year the society leased the grounds known as Glen Mitchell, 
where the fairs were held for many years. In 1865 the New York 
State Agricultural society held a fair at Glen Mitchell, the Saratoga 
County society giving no exhibit that year. In the fall of 1882, largely 
through the efforts of Col. F. D. Curtis of Charlton, the fair was located 
permanently at Ballston Spa, where it has since been held annually. 
The present grounds were purchased in 1890. The presidents of the 
society have been : 

1842, Howell Gardiner; 1843, Elisha Curtis; 1844, Joseph Daniels; 1845, David 
Rogers; 1846, Henry D. Chapman; 1847, Samuel Cheever; 1848, Samuel Young; 
1849, Jesse H. Mead; 1850, Seth Whalen; 1851, Lewis E. Smith; 1854, William Wil- 
cox; 1855, Seneca Daniels; 1856, Chauncey Boughton ; 1857, Nathaniel Mann ; 1858, 
Oscar Granger; 1859, Isaac Frink; 1860, William Wilcox; 1861, Joseph Baucus; 
1863, Sherman Batcheller; 1863, Samuel J. Mott; 1864, Edward Edwards; 1865, 
Chauncey Boughton; 1866-1867, Isaiah Fuller; 1868, Frank D. Curtis; 1869, De Witt 
C. Hoyt; 1870, John Titcomb ; 1871-1872, John P. Conkling; 1873, William Lape; 
1874, Henry C. Holmes; 1875, Joseph B. Enos; 1876, A. B. Baucus; 1877, Charles 
Leland; 1878-1879, Benjamin F. Judson; 1880-1881, Seymour Gilbert; 1882-1885, 
Frank D. Curtis; 1886, George West; 1887, William J. Parkinson; 1888, William A. 
Collamer; 1889-1895, William C. Tallmadge; 1896, George C. Valentine; 1897-1898, 
Henry C. Dater. 



916 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

We have endeavored to trace, in this and preceding chapters, the 
development of various communities of the county along the various 
lines of commerce and industry, of education, of religious growth, etc., 
up to the year 1861, when the country was plunged into the horrors 
of its terrible Civil war. The hardships wrought by this war, the 
scarcity of money, the interruption of commerce and the high prices 
demanded, of necessity, for the various commodities necessary to the 
operation of manufacturing plants, as well as to actual existence, ren- 
dered the maintenance of many industries unprofitable, and Saratoga 
county suffered as did all other sections of the country. Before pro- 
ceeding with the story of the modern development of the county, 
we shall endeavor to describe, accurately if not with eloquence, the 
part which the inhabitants of Saratoga county played in the great, 
awful drama of war from 1861 to 1865. 



CHAPTER XII. 



Participation of Saratoga County in the War of the Rebellion— The Seventy- 
Seventh and Thirtieth Regiments of Infantry and Their Career During the War — 
Morgan H. Chrysler's Second Veteran Cavalry— The One Hundred and Fifteenth 
— Other Regiments in which Inhabitants of the County Fought — Officers of the 
Seventy-Seventh and Thirtieth, with Promotions, Discharges, Resignations and 
Deaths — Names of the Men from Saratoga County Who Fought in the War, and the 
Towns Which Furnished Them. 

SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 

In recording the history of the participation of the inhabitants of 
Saratoga county in the great Civil war, or the war of the Rebellion, it 
is unnecessary to go into the details of that tremendous crisis in our 
nation's career. All know of the causes leading up to that memorable 
struggle. After the defeat at the first battle of Bull Run, the North 
was greatly humiliated, while the South was correspondingly elated. 
The rebels had established their government, with Richmond as their 
capital and Jefferson Davis as their president. The first two calls for 
volunteers had been met promptly by the loyal States. Anticipating 
a further demand for reinforcements for the army in the field, Hon. 
James B. McKean of Saratoga Springs, then representing his congress- 



THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 217 

ional district (the Fifteenth, now the Twenty-second) in the House of 
Representatives, on August 21, 1861, issued a circular letter to his 
constituents. It was also published in the Daily Saratogian, of Sara- 
toga Springs, and afterward reprinted in many other papers through- 
out Saratoga and adjoining counties. The letter read as follows: 

Fellow Cmizens of the Fiheenth Congressional District: 

Traitors in arms seek to overthrow our constitution and to seize our capitol. 
Let us go and help to defend them. Who will despond because we lost the battle of 
Bull Run? Our fathers lost the battle at Bunker Hill, but it taught them how to gain 
the victory at Bemus Heights. 

Let us learn wisdom from disaster, and send overwhelming numbers into the field. 
Let farmers, mechanics, merchants, and all classes — for the liberties of all are at 
stake — aid in organizing companies. 

I will cheerfully assist in procuring the necessary papers. Do not misunderstand 
me. I am not asking for an office at your hands. If j'Ou who have most at stake 
will go, I will willingly go with you as a private soldier. 

Let us organize a Bemus Heights Battalion, and vie with each other in serving 
our country, thus showing we are inspirited by the holy memories of the Revolution- 
ary battle fields upon and near which we are living. 

Jas. B. McKean. 
Saratoga Springs, Aug, 21, 1861. 

The effect of this call to arms was electrical. The response was in- 
stantaneous and general, not only throughout every town in Saratoga 
county, but from adjoining counties. Recruiting stations were opened 
in many places. Everywhere enthusiasm abounded. From the office 
of the adjutant general at Albany orders were issued establishing a 
branch depot and recruiting station at Saratoga Springs, and directing 
that all companies being organized for the new regiment should ren- 
dezvous there preparatory to being mustered into the service of the 
United States governinent. The county fair grounds east of the vil- 
lage were selected as a camping ground and soon put in readiness for 
the new troops. The place was named Camp Schuyler, in honor of the 
gallant General Philip Schuyler of Revolutionary fame. So general 
and so rapid was the response to the call of Mr. McKean, that by Octo- 
ber 1 over six hundred men, divided into seven companies, had enlisted 
and encamped at this rendezvous. These companies elected officers as 
follows: 

Saratoga Springs company. — Captain, Benjamin F'. Jud.son; first lieutenant. L. M. 
Wheeler. 

Ballston Spa companv. — Captain, C. C. Hill; first lieutenant, N. P. Hammond. 
Wilton company. — Captain, Winsor B. French; first lieutenant, John Carr. 



ai8 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Northumberland company — Captain, Calvin Rice; first lieutenant, James Terhune. 
Greenfield company. — Captain, Lewis Wood; first lieutenant, William B. Carpenter. 
Charlton company. — Captain, A. F. Beach; first lieutenant, N. H. Brown. 
Westport company — Captain, R. W. Arnold; first lieutenant, William Douglas. 

After October 1 the following companies entered camp : The Water- 
ford compan}^ in command of Jesse White; the Stillwater and Half- 
moon company, in command of John C. Green; the Clifton Park com- 
pany, in command of J. B. Andrews; the Edinburgh and Providence 
company, in command of John J. Cameron; the Keeseville company, 
in command of Wendell Lansing; the Greenwich company, in com- 
mand of Henrj^ R. Stone, and the Gloversville company, in command 
of N. S. Babcock. 

Several of these little commands not being full organizations, the 
companies from Waterford, Stillwater, Halfmoon, Clifton Park, Edin- 
burgh and Providence were soon afterward consolidated into one com- 
pany, which elected J. B. Andrews captain, Jesse White first lieutenant 
and John J. Cameron second lieutenant, John C. Green of Mechanic- 
ville having been compelled to return home on account of ill health. 
The companies from Keeseville and Greenwich also consolidated, choos- 
ing Wendell Lansing captain and Jacob F. Haywood, first lieutenant. 
Gloversville sent a complete company. Soon after going into camp 
the officers secured quarters at Congress Hall, where they studied mil- 
itary tactics and received instructions in the manual of arms, sword 
practice and army regulations, until the regiment was ready to go 
south. Every day recruits were added to the ranks, and the company 
organizations were finally completed. 

Several changes in officers were made. Winsor B. French, who had 
entered camp as captain of the Wilton company, holding the rank of 
fourth captain, resigned at the request of Colonel McKean and be- 
came adjutant on the latter's staff, with the rank of first lieutenant. 
On account of age and ill health Wendell Lansing resigned as captain of 
the compan)' recruited from Keeseville and Greenwich, and Frank Nor- 
ton of Greenwich was chosen to succeed him. James Terhune, first 
lieutenant of the Northumberland company, resigned and was succeeded 
by George S. Orr. Each company by this time having full ranks, the 
organization was completed and the captains drew by lot their places in 
line, as follows: 

Company A. — Captain, Read W. Arnold; first lieutenant, William Douglas; sec- 
ond lieutenant, James H. Farnsworth; all of Westport, Essex county. 



THE SEVEXTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 219 

Company B.— Captain, Clement C. Hill ; first lieutenant, Noble P. Hammond 
second lieutenant, Stephen S. Horton ; all of Ballston Spa. 

Company C. — Captain, Benjamin F. Judson; first lieutenant, Luther M. Wheeler 
second lieutenant, John Patterson; all of Saratoga Springs. 

Company D. — Captain, John Carr; adjutant and first lieutenant, WinsorB. French 
second lieutenant, Chester H. Fodow; all of Wilton. 

Company E. — Captain, Lewis Wood, Greenfield ; first lieutenant, William B. Car- 
penter, Providence: second lieutenant, Halsey Bowe, Saratoga. 

Company F. — Captain, Judson B. Andrews, Mechanicville; first lieutenant, Jesse 
White, Waterford ; second lieutenant, John J. Cameron, Saratoga. 

Company G. — Captain, Calvin Rice, Northumberland ; first lieutenant, George S. 
Orr, Gansevoort; second lieutenant and quartermaster, Lucius E. Shurtleff, Gahvav. 

Company H. — Captain, Albert F. Beach, Charlton; first lieutenant, N. Hollister 
Brown, Charlton ; second lieutenant, George D. Storey, Malta. 

Company L^Captain, Franklin Norton, Greenwich; first lieutenant, Jacob F. 
Haywood, Keeseville ; second lieutenant, Martin Lennon, Keeseville. 

Company K. — Captain, Nathan S. Babcock; first lieutenant, John W. McGregor; 
second lieutenant. Philander A. Cobb; all of Gloversville. 

The following field and staff officers were then appointed: 

Colonel, James B. McKean, Saratoga Springs; lieutenant colonol, Joseph C. Hen- 
derson, Albany: major, Selden Hetzel, Albany; surgeon, John L. Perry, M. D., 
Saratoga Springs; assistant surgeon, George T. Stevens, M. D., Westport ; chaplain, 
David Tully, Ballston Spa; adjutant, Winsor B. French, Wilton ; quartermaster, 
Lucius E. Shurtleff. Galway. 

These officers were all duly commissioned by Governor E. D. Mor- 
gan and, with the enlisted men, on November 23, 1861, mustered into 
the service of the United States for the whole period of the war. Five 
days later the regiment, which had been given the number of seventy- 
seven,' marched out of camp and started on the journey to Washington. 
On account of sickness and absence on furloughs a few men in eaeh 
company were not able to leave with the regiment. First Lieutenant 
Noble P. Hammond of Company B was left at Camp Schuyler and a 
few days later left for the front in charge of those whose departure had 
been delayed by these circumstances. 

The Seventy Seventh Regiment proceeded to Albany over the line 
of the Rensselaer and Saratoga railroad, passing through Ballston Spa, 

' The Seventy-seventh Regiment was also popularly known as "the Bemus Heights battalion," 
a name which had been given to it while in process of organization by James B. McKean. The 
numerical strength of the regiment when fully organized at Camp Schuyler was as follows: 
Total strength, eight hundred and sixty-tour men, divided as follows: Field and staff, eight; 
Company A, eighty-seven ; Company B, ninety-four ; Company C, eighty-one ', Company D, 
eighty-three; Company E, eighty-three; Company F, eighty-five; Company O, eighty-eight: 
Company H, eighty-three ; Company I, eighty-two ; Company K, ninety. These figures include 
the officers, three to each company. 



220 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Mechanicville and Waterford. All along the route of travel the regi- 
ment received a continued ovation. At Albany the journey was con- 
tinued to New York by boat down the Hudson river. In the metrop- 
olis a number of people who formerly resided in Saratoga county 
banqueted the soldiers, and presented to the regiment a handsome 
banner and guidons. One side of the banner contained a representa- 
tion of an engagement in which soldiers of the Revolution, led by 
Washington, were fighting under the old flag with thirteen stripes and 
the Union Jack. On the other side was pictured Burgoyne's surrender 
under the new flag, the Stars and Stripes, which was first unfurled in 
battle at Bemus Heights. 

December 1, 1861, the Seventy-seventh Regiment arrived at the na- 
tional capital and went into camp at Meridian Hill, about two miles 
north of the city. Here it remained until February 15, 1862, when it 
crossed the Potomac and joined the Third Brigade of the Second Divi- 
sion, at Camp Griffin. The regiment remained a part of this brigade 
and division until the close of the war. This brigade also included the 
Thirty-third and Forty-ninth New York and the Seventh Maine Regi- 
ments, and was in command of General Davidson. The division was in 
command of General William Farrar Smith, popularly known as " Old 
Baldy." From here, on March 8, the division proceeded to Manassas. 
No enemy being found there, it was decided to proceed by way of 
Fortress Monroe and the Peninsula against Richmond. Moving down 
the river, the Seventy-seventh debarked at Hampton, a small village 
west of the fort. On the 26th of the month a reconnaissance in force 
was ordered,' but there was no engagement with the enemy until April 
4. On that day the Confederates were found entrenched at Lee's Mills, 
about three miles west of Yorktown, their earthwork extending across 
the peninsula, about seven miles. In the first skirmish Private Frank 
Jeffords of Company C was killed, the first death in battle in the Sev- 
enty-seventh Regiment. The regiment remained in this locality about 

' Dr. George T. Stevens o£ Westport, who was assistant surgeon on Colonel McKean's staff, 
writing at the close of the war of the movetnents of the regiment, said: " In this advance or re- 
connaissance of the whole army the qualities of the individual soldiers composing it were brought 
out in bold relief. During the months we had been in winter quarters many officers and men 
had established marvelous reputations for bravery and hardihood, merely by constantly herald- 
ing their own heroism. But from this time these doughty heroes went back. OfBcers suddenly 
found cause for resigning, and enlisted men managed to get sent to the rear, and never showed 
their faces at the front again. On the contrary, some who were really invalids insisted on drag- 
ging themselves along the column, fearful that an engagement might take place in which they 
would not participate. A sifting process was thus commenced throughout the whole division, 
and, to its honor, the poltroons were very soon sifted out; and from that time forth .Smith's 
Division never afforded a comfortable resting place for men of doubtful courage." 



THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 2ai 

a month, and during this time many deaths from fever occurred. May 
3 and 4 the enemy retreated to Williamsburgh, whither the Union 
forces followed them, engaged them in a long and severe battle, and 
drove them from the field. During this fight, however, the Seventy- 
seventh was not called into action. 

May 15 the army advanced to White House, on the Pamunkey river, 
where part of it was reorganized, the Second Division becoming apart 
of the Sixth Corps of the Army of the Potomac. May 23 the regiment 
reached Mechanicsville, a small village within sight of Richmond. This 
place was defended by the Seventh and Eighth Georgia Regiments and 
a battery. The latter opened fire, which was quickly returned. Soon 
Colonel McKean was ordered to charge the village with his regiment. 
As soon as the order was given the men of the Seventy-seventh rushed 
forward with a yell, charging furiously and noisily down the little hill. 
The rebel infantry, well nigh paralyzed by the onslaught, fired one 
volley and fled precipitately, as did the rebel battery.' 

Until June 5 our army remained in this vicinity, principally in the 
captured village. June 5 it was ordered to Golden's Farm, on the south 
bank of the Chickahominy. Then did the regiment realize that it 
would not then, at least, participate in the advance upon Richmond. 
For about three weeks the regiment lay at this point, little of moment 
occurring imtil Colonel iMcKean, broken down by illness, was obliged 
to leave the regiment. Other officers and a large number of enlisted 
men also fell victims to swamp fevers and other great hardship.^, and 
the ranks of the Seventy-seventh were greatly depleted. 

In the lull that followed the battle of Fair Oaks or Seven Pines, May 
31 and June 1, in which McClellan succeeded in driving the Confeder- 
ates back, though he did not achieve a decisive victor)-, he formed the 
design of changing his base of supplies from the White House, on the 
Pamunkey, to some suitable point on the James river. The naovement 
was one of the utmost hazard, and before it was fairly begun General 
Robert E. Lee, who on June 3 had succeeded General Joseph E. John- 
ston as commander-in-chief of the Confederate army, the latter having 
been severely wounded in the battle of Fair Oaks, on June 35 swooped 
down on the right wing of the Union army at Oak Grove, and a hard- 
fought battle ensued without decisive results. On the ne.xt day an- 
other desperate engagement occurred at Mechanicsville, and this time 

^ This engagement was a part of the general movement o£ the Army of the Potomac against 
the rebel capital. 



323 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the northern forces won the field. The result of this great fight was 
heralded as a great victory for the Union army, and the joy of the 
victorious forces knew no bounds. Everybody believed that the cap- 
ture of Richmond was but a matter of a few hours — that the onward 
march of the victors would be irresistible. 

But the hope was not fulfilled. On the following morning the brave 
Confederate leader renewed the struggle at Gaines's Mill, winning a 
victory. On the 28th there was but little fighting. Meantime the 
Seventy-seventh had been told to prepare quietly to retreat on a moment's 
notice, preparing the way by destroying all but the necessities and the 
most valuable effects of the soldiers, and leaving the tents standing. 

About three o'clock on the morning of Sunday, June 29, the entire 
Second Division quietly marched to Savage's Station, where on that 
day they assisted in the repulse of the rebel forces. All that night 
they marched toward White Oak Swamp, which was reached at day- 
break of the 30th. After a brief respite the rebels opened a terrific 
artillery fire upon the division, throwing it into the utmost confusion. 
Before its batteries could return the fire with any appreciable effect, 
the horses were killed and most of the cannon rendered useless. The 
whole division was thrown into a panic, and at once retreated, led by 
the Seventy-seventh Regiment. This battle is known as that of Frazier's 
Farm or Glendale. 

On that night the Second Division, with the rest of the arm}-, reached 
Malvern Hill, just south of the great White Oak Swamp, on the north 
bank of the James, twelve miles below Richmond. Although this posi- 
tion was protected by the Federal gunboats in the river, General Lee 
determined to carry the place by storm. Accordingly, on the morning 
of July 1 the whole Confederate army rushed forward to the assault. 
The Sixth Corps held the right of line, and was not actually engaged. 
All day long the furious struggle for the possession of the high grounds 
continued. Not until nine o'clock at night did Lee's shattered columns 
fall back exhausted. For seven days the terrific din of battle had been 
heard almost without cessation. No such dreadful scenes had ever be- 
fore been enacted on the American continent! 

This practically ended the campaign. The Federal army had lost 
more than 15,000 men, and the Confederate losses had been still heavier. 
The capture of Richmond, the great object for which the expedition 
had been undertaken, seemed further off than ever, and all the moral 
effect of a great victory remained with the exultant South. July 2, the 



THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 223 

day following the battle of Malvern Hill, General McClellan retired 
with his army to Harrison's Landing, a few miles down the river. 

The Seventy- seventh Regiment had suffered terribly from battle and 
the ravages of disease. It went to the Peninsula with nearly a thou- 
sand men, but by the middle of June but a quarter of that number 
were in condition for active service. Many had been killed in battle, 
others had died of fever, and others lay desperately ill or wounded. 
Yet the losses in battle had been the least considerable, though the 
regiment had always been in close proximity to the enemy. Colonel 
McKean, stricken with typhoid fever, had been removed to Washington 
and thence to his home at Saratoga Springs, to the profound regret of 
himself and the officers and men of his regiment.' Soon after a de- 
plorable accident occurred. Second Lieutenant Halsey Bowe of Com- 
pany D, one of the most popular young men in the regiment, had 
returned to the camp July 18, after an absence of several weeks, fully 
restored to health. The following day, while in a tent conversing with 
several other officers, he was fatally wounded by an accidental shot 
from a pistol. He died in Philadelphia August IG. 

Besides the forced retirement of Colonel McKean, several other 
changes occurred among the officers of the regiment about this time. 
Among them Lieut. -Col. Joseph C. Henderson resigned June 19, and 
Quatermaster Lucius Shurtleff resigned June 21. Maj. Selden Hetzel 
had been dismissed by order of the secretary of war. May 15. Surgeon 
John L. Perry had also resigned, February 1. Chaplain David Tully 
resigned July 8.° Winsor B. French of Wilton, who had entered the 
regiment as captain of the Wilton company, but who, at the solicitation 
of Colonel McKean, had resigned to become adjutant on his staff, with 
the rank of lieutenant, was promoted to major June 1 and to lieutenant- 
colonel July 18. 

August 16 the regiment left Harrison's Landing and proceeded to 
Hampton, near Fortress Monroe, where transports were waiting to 
carry the Sixth Corps to Ale.xandria, where it arrived August 3o. Its 
next engagement was in the battle of Crampton Pass, following which 
it participated in the battle of Antietam. Lee's invasion of Maryland 

1 When Colonel McKean tendered his resignation, Secretary Stanton, instead of accepting it, 
granted him an indefinite leave of absence, and advised him to go to his home at Saratoga 
Springs and try to regain his health. He did so, but his health did not soon return. .So ill was he 
that for six years he was unable to practice his profession. In July, 1863, while confined to his 
bed, he again tendered his resignation, which was finally accepted. 

3 Several other less important changes are noted in succeeding pages in this chapter. 



224 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

was being pushed with all the haste possible. In the Confederate gen- 
eral's rear was McClellan's whole army. On the night of September 
14 Lee fell back to Antietam creek and took a strong position in the 
vicinity of Sharpsburg. On the morning of the 15th there was some 
sharp but desultory fighting between the Union and Confederate 
cavalry. During the afternoon the Federal advance, coming in on the 
Sharpsburg road from Keedysville, received the opening salutes from 
the Confederate guns on the Antietam. But nightfall came without a 
serious conflict. On the following morning there was great activity of 
preparation in both armies. Later in the day General Hooker's corps, 
on the Union right, was thrown across the stream which separated the 
combatants and brought into a favorable position for action. In this 
quarter of the field the Confederate left under General Hood was 
assaulted and driven back a half mile in the direction of vSharpsburg. 
The rest of the day an irregular cannonading was continued. During 
the night General Mansfield's corps crossed the Antietam on the north 
bridge and joined General Hooker. 

On the morning of vSeptember 17 both commanders had their armies 
well into position, the Union forces being strongest in number and the 
rebels having the advantage of an unfordable stream in their front. It 
was of the first importance that General McClellan should gain and 
hold the four stone bridges by which only his forces could be thrown to 
the other side. General Burnside, who was ordered to take the lower 
bridge, cross over, and attack the division of A. P. Hill, encountered 
unexpected delays and was greatly retarded in his movements. On the 
right Hooker renewed the battle at sunrise, and until late in the after- 
noon the conflict raged with almost unabated fury. 

In this engagement Captain Babcock of Company K was in command 
of the Seventy-seventh. The regiment rushed forward and received 
the fire bravely, and though far ahead of all other regiments, it stood 
its ground and steadily returned the fire. Volley after volley cut down 
the soldiers, still they never wavered in their unprotected position until 
ordered to do so by General Smith. When it formed again it had 
thirty-three men killed or wounded. But the advent of the corps to 
which it belonged had decided the contest upon the right of the line, 
and after the first charge of the Third Brigade the battle lulled. Be- 
fore the next day General Lee withdrew his shattered forces from their 
position and recrossed the Potomac into Virginia. This conflict cost 
each army more than ten thousand men, but was indecisive in its 
results. 



THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 225 

Before the army left Harrison's Landing Major French and Lieutenant 
Caw were sent to Saratoga Springs to recruit for the Seventy-seventh. 
Soon after their arrival a war meeting was held, and a large number 
of men enlisted. In October, ISG'i, these officers, with the new recruits, 
rejoined the regiment, when the former, now Lieutenant-Colonel 
French, took command of the regiment and reorganized it. Companies 
F and K were consolidated, the latter was replaced by the new com- 
pany from Schuylerville, and the remainder of the new recruits were 
assigned to Companies D and L Soon after the first battle of Fred- 
ericksburg occurred, but the regiment, being held in reserve, met with 
no losses. It soon after went into winter quarters at White Oak Church, 
where it remained until spring. 

On the second day of May, 1863, the Army of the Potomac once more 
crossed the Rappahannock and the valiant Sixth Corps was ordered to 
carry the heights of Fredericksburg by storm. The Seventy-seventh 
Regiment led the Third Brigade as a skirmish line, crossed the plain 
at double-quick and in perfect line, under command of Lieutenant-Colo- 
nel French. Inspired by the coolness and bravery of the latter officer, 
the men acted as if they were simply mamsuvering for practice, with 
no thought of an enemy. In the face of an awful hail of musketry, 
grape and canister the brave fellows charged onward. Men fell every 
instant, but others sprang into their places and with cheers continued 
to lead the assault, their bayonets fixed determinedly. Their rush was 
splendid, irresistible, and the rebels retreated in confusion. The Sev- 
enty-seventh, unwavering in its advance, was the first to reach the 
summit of Marye's Hill, where it captured two heavy guns, great num- 
bers of small arms, a stand of colors belonging to the Eighteenth Missis- 
sippi Regiment, and a large number of prisoners, among whom was Colo- 
nel Luce, commander of the latter regiment. The Seventy-seventh lost 
heavily, but it covered itself with glory in making one of the most 
brilliant and successful charges of the war. Among those killed was 
Captain Luther M. Wheeler of Company I, who fell at the foot of 
Marye's Hill. 

The following day the fight was resumed and the Sixth Corps was 
compelled to fight Lee's entire army; but again the Seventy-seventh 
Regiment held the left front of the line and maintained its position as 
firmly as a stone wall. A few days afterward the regiment, with the 
rest of the army, went into camp near White Oak Church, where it 
remained until ordered to pursue Lee into Pennsylvania. In the march 



226 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

to Manchester, Pa., they forced their way over a hundred miles in 
four davs, and then, almost exhausted, they were compelled to proceed 
at once to the relief of General Reynolds at Gettysburg. All night 
and all day they picked their way through fields, over fences and ra- 
vines, up hill and down, marching thirty-six miles in fourteen hours 
with almost no food or drink. This corps was not called into actual 
action in this terrible battle of the first three days of July, but was held 
in reserve until Lee's shattered legions began their retreat, when it 
followed the rebel forces over the mountains to Waynesboro. ^ 

The remainder of the summer and the fall were passed in compara- 
tive quiet by the Seventy-seventh, which proceeded by easy stages to 
the Rapidan. While encamped for three weeks at Stone House Moun- 
tain the line ofiScers of the regiment presented to Colonel French a 
handsome sword, following which were festivities of a most pleasing 
character. 

Winter was now coming on. On December 1 the short campaign of 
Mine Run began, followed by the return to camp at Brandj^ Station. 
Here the Seventj'-seventh held the extreme right front in the attack, 
and when the army retreated across the Rapidan it acted as rear guard 
to the entire corps. 

May -1. 1864, the regiment broke camp at Brandy Station and marched 
across the Rapidan, participating actively the following day in the first 
of the great battles of the Wilderness. On the Sth they reached Spott- 
sylvania, and two daj-s later took part in one of the most terrific and 
bloody charges of the war. The Seventy-seventh, and eleven other 
picked regiments, were placed under command of Colonel Upton, who 
led them in a charge against the right centre of the Confederate line. 
It was desperate work, and the rebels would not retreat until forced to 
do so at the point of the baj'onet, in a hand-to-hand fight; but the first 
intrenchment, then the second, and finally the third were captured and 
the rebels driven from their rifle-pits. The fire of the enemy was ter- 
rible and did great havoc, but not a man faltered for an instant. The 
enthusiasm in the face of such deadly peril was tremendous. The Union 
ranks were frightfully reduced, however, among those killed being 
Captain William B. Carpenter of Company D, and Second Lieutenant 
William F. Lj'on of the same company.' 

May 11 occurred the fight in the " bloody angle," when the regiment 

» Lieutenant Lvon was oScially reported as missing, but is believed to have been killed in 
this action. 



THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 227 

fought hand to hand with the enemy. In all the awful " battles of the 
Wilderness " the regiment participated, generally standing the first 
shock of battle, and likewise sustaining severe losses. This experience 
was repeated at Petersburg on June 10, when the ranks of the regiment 
were still further thinned out. 

On July 9 the First and Second Divisions of the Sixth Corps started 
for the defense of Washington against the threatened attack under 
direction of General Early. On this da}' the Seventy-seventh Reg- 
iment left the Army of the Potomac forever. It arrived at the national 
capital July 13, where it received a perfect ovation from the inhab- 
itants, who had been fearful of being compelled to flee from the city. 

General Early had stationed his forces in front of Fort Stevens, and 
Colonel French was ordered to take the Seventy-seventh New York, 
the Forty-ninth Xew York and the Seventh Maine Regiments and dis- 
lodge the daring rebel commander. Colonel French's command made 
a brilliant charge, which was witnessed by President Lincoln and other 
prominent officials who were in the fort, putting the rebels to flight. 
Still the latter made a stout, though brief, resistance, firing as they re- 
treated and doing great damage to the pursuing brigade. 

The " campaign in the valley," which virtually ended the war, gave 
the noble Seventy-seventh Regiment one more opportunity to add to the 
many laurels it alreadv had won. After helping to drive Early from 
before Washington the regiment, with the Sixth Corps, was assigned 
to the Army of the Shenandoah, which had been placed in command 
of the valiant Gen. Philip H. Sheridan, succeeding General Wright. 
Its first engagement, as a part of this army, was the battle of Win- 
chester. The troops placed at Sheridan's disposal numbered nearly 
4:0,000, and with these he at once moved up the valley. On Septem- 
ber 1 9 he came upon Early's army at Winchester, attacked and routed 
him in a hard-fought battle. In this fight the Seventy-seventh again 
met with heavy losses. After Winchester, Early retreated to Stras- 
burg, where he occupied a very strong position; but Sheridan, un- 
daunted, assailed his position and once more routed the daring rebel 
chief. 

On October 19 the regiment took part in the famous battle of Cedar 
Creek, " with Sheridan twenty miles awa}'." At a point when the vic- 
torious rebel column were driving the disorganized fragments of the 
Eighth and Nineteenth Corps through the ranks of the Sixth corps, the 
latter band of veterans, "the wearers of the Greek Cross, whose fame 



228 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

was already among the choicest treasures of American history, was to 
show to the country and the world an exhibition of valor which should 
tower above all the grand achievements of the war. The corps, num- 
bering less than 12,000 men, now confronted Early's whole army of 
more than thirty thousand men, who, flushed with victory, already 
bringing to bear against us the twenty-one guns which they had just 
captured from the two broken corps, rushed upon our lines with those 
wild, exultant yells, the terror of which can never be conceived by those 
who have not heard them in the field. With fearless impetuosity the 
rebel army moved up the gentle rise of ground in front of the Sixth 
corps, and the attack from one end of the line to the other was simul- 
taneous. It was like the clash of steel to steel. The astonished col- 
umns were checked. They had found an immovable obstacle to their 
march to victory.'" 

The greatest shock of the attack fell upon the Second Division. Bid- 
well's Brigade made a desperate charge, and the rebels fled in confusion 
down the hill which they had just ascended with such confidence. But 
our men were driven back by a fearful fire from the rebel artillery. In 
the engagement many lives were lost. General Bidwell fell while per- 
sonally directing the charge. Captain Martin Lennon of Company I 
fell mortally wounded.' First Lieutenant William J. Taber of Com- 
pany K and First Lieutenant John W. Belding of Company I were 
killed while making the charge. 

The wounding of General Bidwell, who was horribly torn by a burst- 
ing .shell, left Colonel Winsor B. French of the Seventy-seventh in 
command of the brigade. Under his directions the broken line was 
once more quickly formed as the rebels advanced again up the hill with 
their hideous yell. Once more the brigade stood firm as a rock ; then 
came the counter-charge, which once more drove the rebels back in 
disorder, down the hill and across the creek. The field was now cov- 
ered with the dead and wounded of both armies. 

But the Confederates had gained a distinct advantage, and the Union 
forces felt they were losing ground, despite their desperate fighting. 
The latter retired and the rebels pursued them as far as Middletown, 
two miles in the rear, and there, believing the victory complete, paused 
to eat and rest. This was Early's fatal error. 

After Sheridan had posted his army on Cedar Creek he felt secure, 

* Dr. George T. Stevens's account. 
' Captain Lennon died from his wounds November 1, 1864. 



THE SEVENTY-SEVENTH REGIMENT. 299 

at least temporaril)', and rode to Washington on important business. 
In the meantime Early had surprised the Union camp and, as described 
in the foregoing, sent the routed troops flying in confusion toward 
Winchester, as far as Middletown. On the previous night the gallant 
vSheridan had returned to Winchester, and was now coming to rejoin 
his army. On his way he heard the sound of battle, rode his magnifi- 
cent horse twelve miles at full speed under the spurs, and met the 
panic-stricken fugitives not a moment too soon. His approach was 
hailed with the wildest cheers and other manifestations of delight on 
the part of the well-nigh discouraged Northern troops. As he came 
onward at a wild gallop and passed the long trains of ambulances in 
which lay hundreds of his beloved troops, with shattered limbs or 
mangled bodies, they rose and cheered their commander with the wild- 
est enthusiasm. 

Reorganizing the line, another advance upon the astonished rebels 
was ordered, the Second Division being ordered to proceed slowh'. 
Colonel French, in command of the Third Brigade, which was sub- 
jected to galling fire, with heavy loss of life," said to General Getty, " I 
cannot take my brigade over that field slowly." " Then go quickly," 
responded General Getty. With a rush and prolonged cheer the men 
crossed over the field and drove the rebels from their strong position. 
Soon the Confederate line was put to rout, the Sixth Corps pursuing it 
through the valley in one of the wildest races ever beheld in any battle. 
For three miles they chased the panic-stricken rebels, capturing hun- 
dreds of prisoners and many batteries without stopping to reload their 
guns. This ended the battle and the participation of the gallant Sev- 
enty-seventh Regiment in the war. 

Soon after this the regiment was ordered to Saratoga Springs, where 
it arrived November 23, 1864, after three years of hard fighting. It 
was received with a remarkable demonstration on the part of a large 
concourse of people from all parts of Saratoga and surrounding coun- 
ties. But the regiment was a regiment in name only. Of the thirteen 
hundred and sixty-nine men who, three years before, had left for the 
front amid huzzas of the assembled multitude, but fourteen officers 
and one hundred and five men had returned! 

'In this charge the color-sergeant of the Seventy-seventh Regiment fell dead. Another ser- 
geant who seized the flag also fell. Adjutant Gilbert F. Thotnas. a handsome and brave young 
officer, seized the fallen flag, shouted. "Forward, men! *' and instantly fell, pierced by a bullet. 
Thomas was promoted to a corporal in Company C January (i, 1863, and to second lieutenant May 
1, 1883. 



230 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

These survivors of this awful struggle were escorted to the public 
hall where they were welcomed by the president of the village, John vS. 
Lake, on behalf of the citizens of Saratoga Springs. After a prayer 
by David TuUy, the first chaplain of the regiment, an address of wel- 
come was delivered by Colonel James B. McKean,' to which Colonel 
French responded. Dr. Luther F. Beecher read a poem of welcome 
which had been composed by Mrs. M. C. Beecher. In the evening the 
returned heroes were banqueted at the American hotel, when speeches 
were made by Hon. C. S. Lester, Hon. James M. Marvin, Hon. A. 
Pond, Hon. James M. Cook, William A. Sackett, W. M. Potter, officers 
and soldiers of the regiment and others. 

December 13, 1864, the regiment was mustered out of the service of 
the United States; but the war not yet having terminated, many of the 
men who had enlisted during the previous winter re enlisted and, with 
the recruits added to the regiment in 1802 and subsequently, were or- 
ganized into a battalion under Captain David J. Caw and remained at 
the front until the close of the war. December 9, 1861:, this battalion, 
with the vSixth corps, returned to Petersburg. While engaged in that 
vicinity March 25, 1805, several men were killed, including Captain 
vSumner Oakley and First Lieutenant Stephen H. Pierce. In the final 
charge at Fort Fisher April 2, the battalion and the Forty-ninth New 
York led the way, helping to capture thousands of prisoners, many 
stands of colors and many guns. Following this came the fight at 
Sailor's Creek, and finally the surrender of the Army of Virginia, which 
closed the war. The battalion soon afterward returned to Albany, 
where it was mustered out June 27, 1805. The one thousand three 
hundred and sixty-nine members of the regiment were reported as fol- 
lows when the mustering out occurred, December 13, 1864: 

' J:iines B. McKean was born at Hoosick, Rensselaer county, N. Y., August .5, 18S1, a son of 
Rev. Andrew McKean and Catharine Bedell. .Subsequently the family removed to the town of 
Saratoga, thence to Halfmoon. While here he taught in the Jonesville academy and other 
local schools. When twenty-three years of age he was elected colonel of the One Hundred and 
Forty-fourth Regiment of the New York State militia, receiving his commission from Gover- 
nor Silas Wright. In June, 18JT, he began the study of law with Bullard & Cramer, at Water- 
ford ; was admitted to the bar March 5, 1&49, and opened an ofHce at Ballston Spa. June ao, 
1S50, he married Katharine Hay, daughter of Judge William Hay, and the following year re- 
moved to Saratoga Springs. From 1855 to 18.58, inclusive, he was judge of Saratoga county, hav- 
ing been elected on the first Republican ticket ever nominated in the county, probably in the 
State. In 1.SU5 President Ivincoln sent him to Spanish-America to exchange the ratifications of 
a treaty with Honduras. In 1870 President Grant appointed him chief justice of the Supreme 
Court of Utah Territory, in which office he served five years, sul)Seriuently engaging in the 
practice of his profession in Salt Lake City. 



THE THIRTIETH REGIMENT. 231 

Mustered out with the regiment 105 

Transferred to battalion and left in field (veterans) 151 

Transferred to battalion and left in field (recruits) 364 

Killed in action... ._ 83 

Died of wounds received in action 40 

Died of disease __ 140 

Missing in action, most of whom supposed to be dead. 35 

Died in rebel prisons _ 20 

Deserted 61 

Discharged on account of disability . 300 

Discharged on account of wounds received in action 56 

Promoted to commissioned officers 24 

Total 1 , 369 

THIRTIETH REGIMENT. 

The Thirtieth Regiment, New York State Volunteers, ranked second 
to none in faithfulness of service and valorous deeds in time of war. 
It was composed of Company A, recruited at Lansingburgh ; Company 
B of Troy, Company C of Schenectady, Company D of Saratoga, 
Company E of Poughkeepsie, Company F of Saratoga, Company G of 
Saratoga county. Company H of Hoosick, Company I of Troy and 
Company K of Valatie and Kinderhook. The regiment was organized 
by the election of Edward Frisby of Albany as colonel, Charles E. 
Brintnall of Troy as lieutenant-colonel, and William M. Searing of 
Saratoga Springs as major. The other officers were: Richard C. Bent- 
ley of Albany, adjutant; Charles E. Russ of Albany, quartermaster; 
Dr. Francis L. R. Chapin of Albany, surgeon; Dr Julius A. Skilton, 
assistant-surgeon; Robert W. Cross, sergeant-major; Bernard Gilligan, 
quartermaster-sergeant; and Thomas Tilley, standard-bearer. 

The Thirtieth was organized under the first call of President Lincoln 
for 75,000 men to serve two years. The line officers of the several 
companies comprising it were as follows: 

Company A.— Captain, Samuel King; first lieutenant, John H. Campbell; second 
lieutenant, Francis Dargen. 

Company B. — Captain, Walter L. Laning; first lieutenant, Philip Casey; second 
lieutenant, J. Seymour Scott. 

Company C. — Captain, B. M. Van Voast; first lieutenant, M. V. V. Smith; second 
lieutenant, Edward Van Voast. 

Company D. — Captain, Miles T. Bliven ; first lieutenant, Mervin G. Putnam, sec- 
ond lieutenant, John H. Marston. 

Company E. — Captain, Harrison Holliday ; first lieutenant, Edgar S. Jennings; sec- 
ond lieutenant, Nathaniel Palmer. 



232 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Company P. — Captain, Albert J. Perry; first lieutenant, Andrew M. Franklin; sec- 
ond lieutenant, James M. Andrews, jr. 

Company G. — Captain, Morgan H. Chrysler; first lieutenant, William T. Conk- 
ling; second lieutenant, Asa L. Gurney. 

Company H. — Captain, Walter P. Tillman; first lieutenant, Lemuel Ball ; second 
lieutenant, F. W. Barnes. 

Company L — Captain, John M. Landon; first lieutenant, Samuel W. Potts; second 
lieutenant, Alonzo Alden. 

Company K. — Captain. Bartholomew Pruyn ; first lieutenant, (iilbert W. Becker; 
second lieutenant, Adam Lampman. 

This organization was completed at Albany, June 1, 1861, when the 
regiment was mustered into the service of the United States for the 
term of two years. For a while before leaving" for the front it en- 
camped on the old Rensselaer county fair grounds between Troy and 
Lansingburgh. The regiment was armed with ancient flint-lock mus- 
kets altered to cap-lock, and on June 26 left Albany for Washington, 
by way of the Hudson river. From Washington it made its first camp 
at Bright Wood, near where Fort Stevens was built. From there it 
proceeded to Arlington, where it was brigaded with the Twenty-second 
and Twenty-fourth New York and the Brooklyn Fourteenth (afterwards 
the Eighty-fourth New York), making the First Brigade in the First 
Division of the First Army Corps. 

From this time until April, 1862, the First Brigade spent the most of 
its time in building forts and doing picket duty between Washington 
and F'redericksburg. In the latter month General McClellan prepared 
to move the grand Army of the Potomac toward Richmond, and all 
felt that the capture of the Confederate capital and the subjugation of 
the rebellious South was a matter of a few months only. This army 
numbered nearly 200,000 men. The advance proceeded as far as Ma- 
nassas Junction and Centre Hill, the Confederates falling back and 
forming a new line of defenses on the Rappahannock. At Manassas 
the skirmish line moved forward, and carried the works of the enemy 
by assault — only to find that the rebels had fled five days before. Soon 
after the entire First Division proceeded to Fredericksburg. It partici- 
pated in the action at the latter place, described in the story of the 
vSeventy seventh's career; then, until August, 1862, it performed picket 
duty and made reconnaissances. In the latter month it was joined by 
the army of General Pope, engaging under his command in the battles 
of Cedar Mountain, Rappahannock Station, White Sulphur vSprings, 
Gaines's Corners, Grafton and the Second Bull Run. It then entered 



THE THIRTIETH REGIMENT. ' 233 

McClellan's army again and fought in the battles of South Mountain 
and Antietam. In the battle of Chantilly, August 30, 1862, Colonel 
Frisb}^ was killed, and sixteen other officers and two hundred and four- 
teen men were either killed or disabled. Lieutenant Colonel Searing 
was immediately promoted to the command of the Thirtieth Regiment. 

From here the army, now in command of General Meade, pursued 
the enemy to Fredericksburg, where they were engaged December 12 
and 13. Soon after they went into winter quarters at Belle Plain, Va., 
General Wadsworth then being in command. 

Among those killed in the battle of Chantilly were Captain Samuel 
King and Lieutenant Frank Dargen of Company A. Lieutenant Philip 
Rice of Company G (Saratoga) was killed in the night attack at Grove- 
ton on August 29. The brigade became popularly known as Hatch's 
Iron Brigade or foot cavalry,' being highlj* complimented for its be- 
havior under fire. Early in the summer of 18G3 the Thirtieth Regi- 
ment was ordered home, and on June 18 was mustered out and dis- 
charged at Albany. A number of the officers and men subsequently 
joined Lieutenant-Colonel Morgan H. Chrysler, who organized the 
Second \'eteran Cavalry Regiment, re-entered the service in October, 
1863, and served with distinction until the close of the war. 

The Thirtieth Regiment participated in the following battles: Fal- 
mouth, April 7, 1862; Massapomax, August 6, 1862; Rappahannock 
Crossing, August 21, 22 and 23, 1SG2; White Sulphur Springs, August 
26, 1862; Gainesville, or Gaines's Corners, August 28, 1862; Groveton, 
August 29, 1862; Bull Run, August 30, 1862; South Mountain and 
Antietam, September 4, 1862; Fredericksburg, December 13, li and 
16, 1862; Chancellorsville, April 29 to May 6, 1863.' 

OTHER ORGANIZATIONS. 

While the majority of the inhabitants of Saratoga county who fought 
in the war served in either the Seventy-seventh or Thirtieth Regiments, 
the county was represented in other organizations. Among these was 

* The controversy which for years existed as to which brigade was entitled to be called the 
Iron Brigade, was decided in favor of that to which the Thirtieth Reginjent belonged, and it is 
so recorded in history. The Western Regiments which claimed the title are now known as the 
''Western Iron Brigade." 

'A permanent organization of the regiment was effected at Saratoga .Springs June 28, 18Ht;. 
Avhen the name of ''Thirtieth Infantry New York State Volunteer Association" was adopted. 
On the otiicial list giving the percentage of losses incurred at the battle of Bull Run, the Thir- 
tieth stands third with nineteen per cent. This regiment is one of the few which received from 
the United States government a flag of merit. 



234 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Colonel Morgan H. Chrysler's troop of veteran cavalry (the Second), 
the One Hundred and Fifteenth, the Ninety-third, the Fifty fourth, the 
One Hundred and Sixty-second, the One Hundred and Sixty-ninth, the 
One Hundred and Fifty third, the Ninety-second, the Fifty-first, the 
Twenty second, the Ninety seventh, the Fifty-sixth, the Ninety sixth, 
the One Hundred and Twenty- third, the One Hundred and Eighteenth, 
the Fifty-third, the Thirteenth, the Forty-seventh, the Eighty-third, 
the Sixty-third, the Seventy-eighth, the Twentieth, the Twenty-fifth, 
the One Hundred and Thirty-fourth and the One Hundred and Twenty- 
fifth Regiments, New York Volunteers; the Twenty-fifth, the Sixth 
and the Twenty-first Regiments of Cavalry; the Sixteenth Heavy 
Artillery Company, the Thirteenth Artillery Company, the First Bat- 
tery, the First Rifle Corps, the Veteran Reserve Corps, and perhaps in 
some other organizations, as well as in the regular army and the navy. 
The Second Regiment, Veteran Cavalry ' was organized at Saratoga 
Springs by Col. Morgan H. Chrysler and others, to serve three years. 
The companies of which it was composed were raised in the counties 
of Saratoga, Schenectady, Montgomery, Clinton, Essex, Warren, Albany, 
Rensselaer and Columbia. It was mustered into the service of the 
United States from August 16 to December 30, 1863, and was mus- 
tered out of service Noveniber S, 1865. Following is a register of the 
ofificers: 

Morgan H. Chrysler, lieutenant-colonel, December 14, 18C3; promoted to colonel 
December 14, 1863; brevet brigadier-general and major-general; mustered out with 
regiment. 

Asa L. Gurney, lieutenant-colonel, December 14, 1863; mustered out with reg- 
iment. 

Duncan Cameron, major, December 14, 1863; brevet lieutenant-colonel; mustered 
out with regiment. 

Edward Van Voast, major, December 14, 1803; mustered out with regiment; 
brevet lieutenant-colonel. 

John S. Fassett, major, December 14, 1803; mustered out with regiment; brevet 
lieutenant- colonel. 

Michael A. Stearns, adjutant, December 14, 18G3; resigned March 29, 1804. 

Henry W. Heartt, adjutant. May 18, 1864; deserted to the enemy October 19, 1S04. 

Robert Barber, first lieutenant, December 14, 1803; promoted to adjutant, Decem- 
ber 7, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

David Keene, quartermaster, December 14, 1863; promoted to captain May 18, 
1804; discharged August 37, 1865. 

* The brief history of this and other military organixations subsequently referred to in this 
chapter is taken from the official records in the office of the adjutant -general of the State of New- 
York at Albany. 



THE SECOND CAVALRY. 335 

Charles F. Carter, quartermaster, May 18, 1864; promoted to captain December 

14, 1864; died of wounds July 13, 1864. 

Charles W. Johnson, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; quartermaster, Sep- 
tember 24, 1864; discharged August 27, 1865. 

Hamilton B. Littlefield, commissary, December 14, 1863; discharged July 28, 1864. 

Foster S. Taylor, commissary, September 21, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

John L. Perry, surgeon, December 14, 1863; resigned June 12, 1864. 

Lucien Dumainville, assistant-surgeon, December 14, 1863; promoted to surgeon 
June 30, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

Ichabod King, assistant-surgeon, November 1.5, 1864; not mustered. 

Galusha B. Balch, assistant-surgeon, January 8, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

Ransom C. Dwyer, chaplain, February 6. 1864; died at St. James Hospital, New 
Orleans, June 30, 1864. 

Daniel P. Cilley, chaplain, April 22, 1865; mustered out with regiment. 

Lucius E. Wilson, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment; brevet 
major. 

Thomas F. Allen, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment. 

David Keene, captain, May 18, 1864; discharged August 27, 1865. 

Joseph Strunk. captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment; brevet 
major. 

Gifford W. Chrysler, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment; 
brevet major. 

Smith J. Gurney, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment. 

Henry W. Sanford, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment. 

Charles H. Bentley, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiraeut. 

Gilbert W. Becker, captain, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment; 
brevet major. 

William H. Arlin, captain, December 14, 1863; missing since June, 1864. 

Christopher Dolan, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; promoted captain July 21, 
1864; mustered out with regiment; brevet major. 

Andrew M. Franklin, captain, December 14, 1863; resigned April 21, 1864. 

Thomas B. Smith, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; promoted captain July 21, 
1864; died of disease February 26, 1865. 

John J. Baker, captain, December 14, 1863; discharged September 23, 1864. 

Israel Litno, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant, July 21, 1864; 
captain November 23, 1865; not mustered as captain, commission revoked ; mustered 
out with regiment. 

Mason W. Covell, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; captain, December 7, 1834; 
mustered out with regiment. 

Frederick D. Ellis, captain, missing since December, 1863. 

Henry L. Jewett, first lieutenant, December 16, 1863; not mustered. 

Thomas Ledwick, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant, March 

15, 1865; mustered out with regiment. 

Horace W. Lacca, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; mustered out with regiment. 
Delos M. White, first lieutenant, December 14. 1863; resigned November 22, 1864. 
Charles W. Van Patten, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant, 
January 20, 1863; mustered out with regiment. 



236 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Albert Westinghouse, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; killed in action Decem- 
ber 10, 1804. 

Luman L. Cadwell, fir.st lieutenant, January 20, 1865; mustered out with regiment. 

Dan. D. Stone, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; died on board U. S. transport 
•' Iberville," bound to New Orleans, April 12, 1864. 

Augustus P. Higby, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant, July 
21, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

George W. Steele, first lieutenant, December 14,1863; discharged February 26, 
1865. 

Ehakira Chase, first lieutenant, October 10, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

Melville S. Dunn, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; killed in action April 4, 1864. 

Henry W. Thayer, second lieutenant, July 21, 1864; first lieutenant, November 23, 
1865; not mustered as first lieutenant; mustered out with regiment. 

Mason I. Gibson, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant. May 18. 
1864; mustered out with regiment. 

Thomas Hall, first lieutenant, December 14, 1803; died o£ wounds April 14, 1864. 

Charles Palmer, second lieutenant, July 21, 1864; first lieutenant, (but not mus- 
tered) November 23, 1865; mustered out with regiment. 

Henry D. Doty, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant, July 21, 
1864; cashiered September 29, 1865. 

Miles T. Bliven, first lieutenant, December 14, 1863; discharged August 9, 1864. 

George F. Beach, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant, Decem- 
ber 7, 1804; mustered out with regiment; brevet captain. 

Henry M. Bailey, second lieutenant, December 14, 1803; first lieutenant July 21, 
1864; mustered out with regiment ; brevet captain. 

Harper W. Rogers, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; first lieutenant Decem- 
ber 7, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

Enoch H. Gurney, promoted second lieutenant March 15, 1865; mustered out with 
regiment. 

George B, Lyon, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; resigned November 
18, 1804. 

Darwin L. Weeks, promoted second lieutenant December 7, 1804; mustered out 
with regiment. 

Albert W. Thompson, promoted second lieutenant January 20, 1805; mustered out 
with regiment. 

Charles A. Gray, promoted second lieutenant December 30, 1804, but not mustered. 

Harrison P. Kingsley, promoted second lieutenant March 14, 1805; mustered out 
with regiment. 

A. Hallock Holbrook, promoted second lieutenant July 21, 1804; mustered out 
with regiment. 

William Fisher, promoted second lieutenant December 7, 1864; deserted. 

Leroy Hoaglin, promoted second lieutenant May 18, 1804; mustered out with 
regiment. 

Charles W. Howard, promoted second lieutenant December 7, 1804; mustered out 
with regiment; brevet captain. 

George E. Hutchings, promoted second lieutenant July 21, 1864, but not mustered; 
killed in action. 




CAPTAIN WILLIAM H MCKITTRICK. 



THE ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTEENTH REGIMENT. 237 

W. Scott Whitney, promoted second lieutenant December 7, 1864; mustered out 
with regiment. 
Charles E. Shaw, second lieutenant, December 14, 1863; discharged November 

13, 1864. 

Sherman A. Case, promoted second lieutenant January 30, 1865; mustered out 
with regiment. 

George W. Decker, promoted second lieutenant November 23, 1865: not mustered. 

Albert Case, promoted second lieutenant November 23. 1865; not mustered. 

Enos Van Voast, promoted second lieutenant November 23, 1865; mustered out 
with regiment. 

Frederick W. Stevens, quartermaster sergeant ; brevet second lieutenant. 

The One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment of Infantry was organ- 
ganized at Fonda to serve three years. The companies of which it 
was composed were raised in the counties of Fulton, Hamilton, Mont- 
gomery and Saratoga, then forming the Fifteenth Senate District. It 
was mustered into the United States service August 26, 1862, and was 
mustered out June 17, 1805. Simeon Sammons of Sammonsville, Mont- 
gomery county, went out as colonel of -the regiment. He was dis- 
charged on account of disability November 19, 1864. Lieutenant- 
Colonel Nathan J. Johnson acted as colonel after April 29, 180.5, and 
was commissioned colonel on the day the regiment left the service, but 
was not mustered in as such. George S. Batcheller, then a resident of 
Batchellerville, Saratoga county, was the first Heutenant-colonel, his 
commission bearing date of August 30, 1802. He resigned November 

14, 1863. Ezra L. Walrath was commissioned lieutenant colonel on 
the day the regiment left the service, but was not mustered in. Among 
others who served as officers of the One Hundred and Fifteenth were: 
Majors Patrick H. Cowan, Ezra L. Walrath and Egbert B. Savage; 
adjutants, Thomas R. Horton, Hugh S. Sanford and John A. Collier; 
Captain William H. McKittrick, who was commissioned September 10, 
1862, and was killed in action at Chapin's Farm, Va. , September 29, 
1864; Captain Walton W. French, commissioned September 10, 1862, 
and discharged June 1], 1864; Captain Cyrus N. Ballon, who was com- 
missioned April 0, 1805; Alfred G. Noxon, commissioned May 18, 1803, 
and resigned October 25, 1863. Henry W. Heaton, John W. F"ilkins, 
Francis D. Barnum, Levi Sheffer, Aaron C. Slocum, William J. Jen- 
nings and George H. Curreen were also officers in this regiment. The 
One Hundred and Fifteenth fought in these battles: Maryland Heights, 
Olustee, Drewry's Bluff, Coal Harbor, Petersburg, Deep Bottom, Cha- 
pin's Farm, Darbytown Road, Fort Fisher and Wilmington. 



238 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The Twenty-fifth Regiment of Cavalry, popularly known as the 
" .Sickles Cavalry," was organized at Saratoga Springs to serve three 
years. The companies of which it was composed were raised princi- 
pally in the counties of Saratoga, New York, Delaware and Sullivan. 
It was mustered into the service of the United States from October, 
1863, to October, 1864, and was mustered out June 27, 1865. Gurden 
Chapin was the first colonel, his commission dating October 31, 1864, 
Aaron Seeley was lieutenant colonel. The regiment had at various 
times these majors: Samuel W. McPherson, afterwards breveted lieu- 
tenant colonel; Charles J. Seymour, Clinton G. Townsley, John L. V. 
Danesi and Charles F. Willard. Samuel W. McPherson, William 'A. 
Hrusle, jr., and Robert M. Gumming each served as adjutant. The 
other staff officers were: Quartermaster, Isaac V. Truss; commissary, 
Edwin Dunn; surgeon, James 1). Jones; assistant surgeons, George 
Sumner and Arnold Dufioo; chaplain, Ethan Ray Clark. 

The Thirteenth Regiment of Infantry was organized at Ehnira, was 
mustered into service May 14, 1861, and mustered out May ll), 1863. 
Isaac F. Quimby was the first colonel. He was succeeded in turn by 
John Pickell and ElishaG. Marshall. The Twentieth Regiment of in- 
fantry was organized in New York city, was mustered into service May 
6, 1801, and mustered out June 1, 1863. The Twenty-second Regiment 
was organized at Albany, was mustered in June 6, 18GI, and mustered 
out June 19, 1863. The Twenty-fifth Regiment was organized in New 
York city, was mustered into service in June, 1861, and mustered out 
[uly 10, 1863. The Forty-seventh Regiment was organized in New 
York city, was mustered into the service in September, 1861, and mus- 
tered out August 30, 1865. The Fifty first Regiment was organized in 
New York city, was mustered into the service from July 27 to October 
23, 1861, and was mustered out July 25, 1865. The Fifty-third Regi- 
ment was organized in New York city, was mustered into the service 
from August 27 to November 15, 1861, and was mustered out March 
21, 1862. The Fifty-fourth Regiment was organized in New York city, 
was mustered into the service from September 5 to October 16, 1861, 
and was mustered out April 14, 1866. The Fifty-sixth Regiment was 
organized at Newburgh, was mustered into the service from July 31 to 
December 10, 1861, and was mustered out October 17, 1865. The 
Sixty-third Regiment was organized in New York city, was mustered 
into the service from August 7 to November 13, 1861, and was mus- 
tered out June 30, 1865. The Seventy-eighth Regiment was organized 



VARIOUS REGIMENTS. 239 

in New York city, was mustered into service from October 1, 1801, to 
April 12, 1SG2, and was consolidated with the One Hundred and Second 
Regiment June 29, 1804. The latter regiment was mustered out July 
21, 1805. The Eighty-third Regiment was organized in New York 
city, was mustered into the service from May to August, 1801, and at 
the expiration of its term of service the veterans and recruits were 
transferred to the Ninety-seventh Regiment. The Ninety second 
Regiment was organized at Potsdam, was mustered into service Janu- 
ary 1, 1802, and mustered out January 7, 1805. The Ninety-third 
Regiment was organized at Albany, was mustered into service from 
October, 1861, to January 1862, and was mustered out June 29, 1865. 
The Ninety-sixth Regiment was organized at Plattsburgh, was mus- 
tered into service from February 20, 1802, to March 7, 1802, and was 
mustered out February 0, 1800.' The Ninety-seventh Regiment was 
organized at Boonville, was mustered into service from September, 1801, 
to February, 1802, and was mustered out July 18, 1805. The One 
Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment was organized at Plattsburgh, was 
mustered into service August 30, 1802, and mustered out June 13, 1805. 
The One Hundred and Twenty-third Regiment was organized at vSalem, 
Washington county, was mustered into service September 4, 1802, and 
mustered out June 8, 1865. The One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Regi- 
ment was organized at Troy, was mustered into service August 29, 
1862, and mustered out June 5, 1805. The One Hundred and Thirty- 
fourth Regiment was organized at Schoharie, was mustered into service 
September 22, 1802, and mustered out June 1, 1865. The One Hun- 
dred and Fifty-third Regiment was organized at Fonda, and was mus- 
tered into service October 18, 1862. The companies of which it was 
composed were raised in the counties of Saratoga, Fulton, Montgomery, 
Clinton, Essex and Warren. Duncan McMartin, the first colonel, was 
succeeded May 20, 1803, by Edward P. David, who was breveted brig- 
adier-general. The regiment was mustered out of service October 2, 
1805. It saw service in the battles at Sabine Cross Roads, Pleasant 
Hill, Marksville, Cane River, Mansura and Alexandria, La. The One 
Hundred and Sixty-second Regiment was organized in New York city, 
was mustered into service from August 22 to October 18, 1862, and 
mustered out October 12, 1865. The One Hundred and Sixty ninth 
Regiment was organized at Troy, was mustered into service from Sep- 
tember 25 to October 6, 1862, and mustered out July 19, 1865. 

' This regiment participated in thirty-one battles. 



240 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The Sixth Regiment of Cavalry was organized in New York city, 
was mustered into service from September 13 to December 19, 1861, 
and was consolidated with the Fifteenth New York Cavalry as the Sec- 
ond New York Provisional Cavalry June 17, 1865. The Twenty-first 
Regiment of Cavalry was organized at Troy, was mustered into service 
from August to October, 1863, and was mustered out by detachments. 

The Sixteenth Regiment of Heavy Artillery was organized in the 
State at large, was mustered into the service from September 28, 1863, 
to January 38, 1864, was mustered out August 21, 18G5. The Thir- 
teenth Regiment of Heavy Artillery was organized in New York city, 
was mustered into the service from August, 1863, to September, 1864, 
and transferred to the Sixth New York Artillery June 37, 1865. The 
First Battery of Light Artillery was organized at Auburn, was mustered 
into service November 23, 18G1, and ni-ustered out June 23, 1865. The 
First Regiment Mounted Rifles was organized in New York city, was 
mustered into service from August 31, 1861, to September 9, 1862, and 
was consolidated July 31, 1865, with the Third Regiment New York 
Cavalry, as the Fourth Provisional New York Cavalry. 

COLONEL EPHRAIM ELMER ELLSWORTH. 

The story of Saratoga county's participation in the war of the Rebel- 
lion would not be complete without more than a passing mention of 
the famous Ellsworth Zouaves, or the Eleventh New York Volunteer 
Infantry, organized in New York city in April, 1861. But before 
speaking in detail of this regiment, which in itself was not of 'particu- 
lar interest to the people of Saratoga county except that it was organ- 
ized and commanded by Col. E. E. Ellsworth, let us look into the life 
of the young commander. 

Ephraim Elmer Ellsworth was born in the town of Malta April 11, 
1837, the son of Ephraim D. Ellsworth. As a boy he served as a clerk 
in a store at Mechanicville. At the age of sixteen years he went to 
Troy and continued in mercantile life. But this was not a pursuit to 
his liking, and he journeyed to New York. Finding competition there 
too great, in the spring of 1859 lie went to Chicago and began the study 
of the law in the ofiice of J. E. Cone. While pursuing his studies he 
gained a wonderful knowledge of the manual of arms and became an 
expert fencer. 

All this while he was suffering the pangs of poverty, and almost 
starvation. Many a night he threw himself on the floor of Mr. Cone's 



COLONEL ELMER E. ELLSWORTH. 241 

law office, hunger-stricken and wearied to exhaustion. He had organ- 
ized a company of cadets, and before long Chicago wa.s singing the 
praises of the Ellsworth Zouaves. So great did the degree of perfection 
of these Zouaves attain, that in the summer of 18G0, in res]5onse to 
many requests, Ellsworth made a tour of the country at their head, 
scoring an unbroken series of triumphs. 

After this tour young Ellsworth became one of the most talked of 
young men in the country. While on his return to Chicago from the 
East he met Abraham Lincoln, then a candidate for the presidency. 
Mr. Lincoln offered Ellsworth a place in his office, and the offer was 
quickly accepted. After Mr. Lincoln was elected to the presidency 
Ellsworth received at his hands a commission as lieutenant in the army, 
and was detailed for special dut}' in Washington. When the war be- 
gan he was anxious to enter into active service at once. To do this he 
therefore resigned his commission as lieutenant, went to New York 
city and obtained permission of the chief of the metropolitan fire de- 
partrrjent to recruit a regiment from among the firemen. The request 
being granted, he sent to Chicago for some of the men of his old Zouave 
company, and they joined him at once. 

The rapidity with which this regiment (the Eleventh New York Vol- 
unteer Infantry, usually called the New York Zouaves) was recruited 
is shown by the fact that Ellsworth arrived in New York April 17, 1861, 
and April 39 the new regiment of eleven hundred men embarked on 
the steamer Baltic for Washington. They were mustered into service 
by General Irwin McDowell in the presence of President Lincoln in 
front of the capitol May 7, the first regiment mustered in "for three 
years, or daring the war," previous enlistments having been for three 
months. 

May 24 the Eleventh was transferred to Alexandria, Va. In that 
place Colonel Ellsworth, leaving Lieut. -Col. Noah L. Farnham in com- 
mand, accompanied by Sergeant Frank B. Marshall and a squad of 
men proceeded to the Marshall house to remove a rebel flag which 
floated from the top of that building. After sending Sergeant Mar- 
shall back to the regiment for Company A, he went inside of the hotel, 
posting one of his escort at the door, another on the first floor, another 
at the foot of the stairs, and Corporal Frank E. Brownell, of Troy, N. 
Y., on the third floor. Colonel Ellsworth then ascended to the top of 
the house to obtain a view of the surroundings and remove the obnox- 
ious flag. Securing the latter he started to descend the stairs, when 

16 



243 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

he heard the report of a gun. Hastening down, he came around a 
turn in the stairs just in time to receive the second charge from a 
double-barelled shotgun in the hands of James W. Jackson, the land- 
lord of the Marshall house. The gun was aimed at Brownell, who had 
knocked the gun up. 

Hardly had the shot been fired when Corporal Brownell leveled his 
gun at the assassin and fired, killing him instantly. It was sub- 
sequently learned that the murderer was crazed with drink, having 
been on a prolonged debauch. 

Many criticisms of Ellsworth have been published, accusing him of 
tyranny, vanity, undue pride and foolhardiness. But all such criti- 
cisms, it is now generally believed, had their source either from those, 
who had suffered from a necessary discipline, agreed to by themselves 
and afterwards violated, or from the friends of these men. Not one 
surviving member of his Zouaves, who remained faithful to the end, 
agrees with such criticism. On the other hand, they accord to the 
heroic Ellsworth unparalleled fi.xedness of purpose, industry and clear- 
headedness in all matters pertaining to military affairs. They believe 
that on the roll of great captains, when the greatest of all wars closed, 
the name of Ellsworth might have stood second to none, had it not 
been for his untimely end. 

Ephraim D. Ellsworth, father of Col. E. E. Ellsworth, was born in 
the town of Halfmoon, May 22, 1809. Previous to his nineteenth year 
he learned the tailor's trade at Waterford and afterwards worked at it 
in Troy and Jonesville, this county. In 1836 he married Phebe Den- 
ton of Malta, and located at Mechanicville to carry on his trade, resid- 
ing there the remainder of his days, excepting ten years spent in the 
service of the government. November IG, 1861, President Lincoln 
commissioned him captain in the ordnance department and he was 
assigned to duty at Fortress Monroe. This was six months after the 
assassination of his son. Captain Ellsworth soon resigned this position 
and was placed in charge of the Champlain arsenal at Vergennes, 
Vt. , where he remained about ten years, returning to his home at Me- 
chanicville in the fall of 1871. 

THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 

The following is a list of the officers of the Seventy-seventh Reg- 
iment, New York Volunteers, with promotions, discharges, resigna- 
tions and deaths, from November 23, 1861, to the close of the war: 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 343 

FIELD AND STAFF. 

James B. McKean, colonel, resigned July 37, 1863. 

Joseph C Henderson, lieutenant colonel, resigned June 19, 1862. 

Selden Hetzel, major, dismissed by order of the secretary of war, May 15, 1862. 

Lucius Shurtleff, quartermaster, resigned June 21, 1863. 

John L. Perry, surgeon, resigned February 1, 1863. 

Augustus Campbell, surgeon, resigned February 7, 1863. 

John M. Fay, assistant surgeon, dismissed March 3, 1863. 

David TuUy, chaplain, resigned July 8, 1862. 

Wmsor B. French, adjutant, promoted major June 1, 1862; lieutenant-colonel, July 
18, 1863; colonel, August 25, 1863 (not mustered out as colonel, regiment being re- 
duced below minimum number of men); breveted brigadier-general United States 
Volunteers for gallant and meritorious conduct on the field; mustered out with reg- 
iment. 

Nathan S. Babcock, captain, promoted major, August 31, 1862; mustered out with 
regiment. 

William H. Fursman, first lieutenant Company K, promoted adjutant, May 3, 
1863; resigned February 12, 1864. 

Lawrence Van Demark, second lieutenant Company C, promoted first lieutenant, 
and adjutant, February 13, 1864; resigned .September 30, 1864. 

William W. Worden, sergeant Company C, promoted second lieutenant, Novem- 
ber 33, 1863; adjutant, October 24, 1864; mustered out with regiment. 

Thomas M. White, private Company C, promoted commissary sergeant. Feb- 
ruary 37, 1863; second lieutenant, February 10, 1865; first lieutenant and adjutant, 
March, 1865; mustered out with battalion; breveted major for services rendered in 
battle April 2. 1865. 

Jacob F. Hayward. first lieutenant Company I, promoted quartermaster, June 21, 
1862; mustered out with regiment. 

George T. Stevens, assistant surgeon, promoted surgeon, February 27, 1863; mus- 
tered out with regiment. 

Justin G. Thompson, assistant surgeon, November 17, 1862; transferred and mus- 
tered out with battalion. 

Norman Fox, jr., chaplain, appointed from civil life, December 10, 1863; mustered 
out with regiment. 

Job S. Safford, promoted from sergeant Company F, to sergeant-major. 

Seymour Burch, sergeant-major, discharged February 1, 1862. 

Wendell Lansing, commissary-sergeant, discharged. 

Aaron B. Ouivey, private Company C, promoted commissary-sergeant, June 5, 
1862; discharged March 1, 1863; re enlisted and killed on picket. May 18, 1864. 

Luther F. Irish, principal musician, discharged. 

Isaac D. Clapp, corporal Company C, promoted sergeant-major, May 15, 1863; ad- 
jutant, June 1, 1862; captain, June 6, 1863; major (but not mustered), June 13. 1864; 
mustered out with regiment. 

William A. De Long, assistant-surgeon, appointed from civil life, March 2, 1863; 
mustered out with regiment. 

Charles D. Thurber, private Company D, promoted quartermaster-sergeant; sec- 
ond lieutenant Company E; quartermaster; mustered out with battalion. 



244 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Andrew Van Wie, private Company C, promoted principal musician, July 1, 1864. 

Alexander P. Waldron, private Company D, promoted hospital steward, Septem- 
ber 8, 1862. 

Sidney O. Cromack, sergeant Company B, promoted sergeant-major, May 3, 1863 ; 
first lieutenant, June 5, 1863; discharged March 11, 1865. 

George H. Gillis, sergeant Company C, promoted sergeant-major, November 17, 
1862; second lieutenant, February 25, 1863; mustered out with regiment. 

Edward S. Armstrong, corporal Company C, promoted quartermaster-sergeant, 
January 1, 1862; first lieutenant Company B, May 19, 1862; discharged January 14, 
1863. 

Thomas S. Fowler, private Company D, promoted quartermaster-sergeant, April 
3, 1862; second lieutenant, October 3, 1863; discharged on account of wounds Au- 
gust 12, 1864. 

Gilbert F. Thomas, corporal Company C, promoted second lieutenant. May 1, 
1863; killed in action at Cedar Creek, October 19, 1864. 

Charles H. Davis, sergeant Company D, promoted adjutant of battalion, February 
18, 1865; captain, April 22, 1865; mustered out with battalion. 

Obed M. Coleman, private Company C, promoted quartermaster-sergeant. 

Edward H. Thorn, private Company C, promoted commissary-sergeant. 

David J. Caw, private Company H., promoted second lieutenant. May 21, 1863; 
first lieutenant, September 23, 1862; captain, December 10, 1862; major, December 
20, 1864; lieutenant-colonel, December 24, 1864; colonel (but not mustered) July 6, 
1865 ; mustered out with battalion. 

LINE OFFICERS. 

Company A. — Captain Read W. Arnold, resigned April 3, 1862. First Lieutenant 
William Douglass, resigned April 21, 1863. First Lieutenant Stephen S. Hastings, 
resigned December 23, 1862. Second Lieutenant James H. Farnsvvorth, resigned 
February 8, 1862. Captain George S. Orr, promoted from lieutenant April 3, 1863 
lost right arm at Cedar Creek ; mustered out with regiment. Captain Charles E 
Stevens, promoted from ranks to second lieutenant March 21, 1862; first lieutenant, 
January 23, 1863; captain, September 16, 1864; commissioned colonel (but not mus 
tered) ; mustered out with battalion. Second Lieutenant Lewis T. Vanderwarker 
promoted from private January 27, 1863; first lieutenant, November 10, 1863; mus 
tered out with regiment. Second Lieutenant Sorell Fountain, promoted from pri 
vate April 23, 1865; mustered out with regiment. First Lieutenant Adam Flans- 
burgh, promoted in battalion. 

Company /?.— Captain C. C. Hill, resigned July 1, 1862. Captain Stephen S. Hor- 
ton, promoted from second lieutenant to captain July 25, 1862; discharged May 31, 
1863, on account of wounds received at Antietam. Captain Frederick Smith, dis- 
missed. First Lieutenant Noble P. Hammond, resigned July 34, 1862. Second 
Lieutenant G. R. McGunnigle, dismissed. Second Lieutenant Sidney O. Cromack. 
(See Staff.) Second Lieutenant William H. Quackenbush, promoted February 16, 
1865; mustered out with battalion. 

Company C— Captain Benjamin F. Judson, resigned March 29, 1863. Captain 
Luther M, Wheeler, first lieutenant, promoted captain March 39, 18G3; killed in ac- 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 245 

tion at Fredericksburg, Va., May 3, 1863. First Lieutenant John Patterson, resigned 
September 8, 1863. Captain E. W. Winne. first sergeant, promoted second lieuten- 
ant March 29, 1862; first lieutenant, September 8, 1863; captain Company F, May 9, 
1863; di.scharged September 9, 1864. Second Lieutenant Gilbert F. Thomas. (See 
Staff.) Second Lieutenant Stephen H. Pierce, transferred to battalion; promoted 
first lieutenant Marcli 15, 1864; killed in action March 25, 1865. Second Lieutenant 
David Pangburn, promoted from sergeant. 

Company D. — Captain John Caw, resigned at White House, Va., May 18, 1862, on 
account of disability and died before reaching home. Captain Seth W. Deyoe, pro- 
moted from first sergeant to first lieutenant November 33, 1861; captain, September 
3, 1863; discharged on account of wounds received in action, July 26, 1864. Second 
Lieutenant Chester H. Fodow, resigned May 31, 1862. Second Lieutenant Robert 
H. Skinner, promoted June 4, 1863; discharged on account of wounds received in ac- 
tion, March 13, 1863. First Lieutenant Joseph H. Loveland, promoted captain, No- 
vember 3, 1863; mustered out with regiment. Captain Sumner Oakley, sergeant, 
promoted first lieutenant September 6, 1864; transferred to battalion January 20, 
1865; killed in action, March 35, 1865. Second Lieutenant Robert E. Nelson, ser- 
geant, promoted second lieutenant. May 35, 1864; first lieutenant August 20, 1864; 
transferred to and mustered out with battalion. 

Company E. — Captain Lewis Wood, discharged on account of disability, October 4, 

1863. Captain William B. Carpenter, first lieutenant, promoted captain December 
35, 1863; killed in action May 10, 1864. Second Lieutenant Halsey Bowe, accident- 
ally shot in camp at Harrison's Landing, Va. , and died of the wound in Philadelphia 
August 16, 1863. First Lieutenant Henry C. Rowland, promoted from sergeant 
January 23, 1863; mustered out with regiment. Second Lieutenant William F. Lyon, 
promoted March 17, 1863; missing; believed to have been killed in action May 10, 

1864. Second Lieutenant Charles D. Thurber. (See Staff.) Second Lieutenant 
Thomas M. White. (See Staff.) First Lieutenant James A. Monroe, promoted 
from first sergeant November 15, 1864; mustered out with battalion. 

Company F. — Captain Judson B. Andrews, resigned July 16, 1862. Captain Jesse 
White, promoted from first lieutenant, September 23, 1862, discharged for disability, 
February, 1863. Second Lieutenant Emmett J. Patterson, resigned December 18, 
1862. Second Lieutenant Thomas S. Fowler. (See Staff.) Second Lieutenant John 
J. Cameron, died on the Peninsula May 6, 1862. 

Company G. — Captain Calvin A. Rice, dismissed by order of secretary of war, 
October 4, 1863. First Lieutenant Edward S. Armstrong. (See Staff.) Second 
Lieutenant William K. Young, resigned April 15, 1863. Captain George Ross, ser- 
geant, promoted second lieutenant, January 33. 1863; first lieutenant, March 17, 1863; 
captain, December 28, 1865 ; mustered out with battalion. Second Lieutenant George 
H. Gillis. (See Staff.) Captain Orin P. Rugg. sergeant, promoted second lieuten- 
ant, April 28, 1862; captain, December 10, 1862; killed in action May 12, 1864. 

Company H, — Captain Alfred H. Beach, resigned January 28, 1862, on account of 
physical disability. Captain N. Hollister Brown, promoted from first lieutenant, 
January 30, 1863; resigned December 36, 1862. First Lieutenrnt George D. Story, 
promoted from second lieutenant January 30, 1863; resigned May 31, 1863. First 
Lieutenant Frank Thomas promoted second lieutentant from first sergeant. Com- 
pany C, January 23, 1863; first lieutenant, March 13, 1863; discharged August 10, 



246 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE, 

1864, on account of wounds received in action May 10, 1864. Captain David J. Caw. 
(See Field.) First Lieutenant Alonzo Rowland, appointed second lieutenant from 
civil life. August 10, 1863; promoted first lieutenant, November 15, 1864; mustered 
out with battalion. Second Lieutenant William Caw, promoted from sergeant, 
January 20, 1865 ; mustered out with battalion. 

Company I. — Captain Franklin Norton, resigned in August. 1862, and appointed 
lieutenant-colonel. One Hundred and Twenty-third New York Volunteers. Second 
Lieutenant Carlos Rowe, promoted sergeant, Junel, 1862; second lieutenant. May 1, 
1863; mustered out with regiment. First Lieutenant Jacob F. Hay ward. (See Staff.) 
First Lieutenant William E. Merrill, promoted second lieutenant, November 15, 1864; 
first lieutenant, April 22, 1865; mustered out with battalion. Captain Martin 
Lennon, promoted from second lieutenant, December 10, 1862; died November 1, 
1864, from wounds received at Cedar Creek October 19, 1864. First Lieutenant 
John W. Belding, promoted first lieutenant, March 19, 1863; killed at Cedar Creek 
October 19. 1864. 

Company K. — Captain Nathan S. Babcock. (See Field.) First Lieutenant Ansil 
Dennison, sergeant, promoted second lieutenant, February 6, 1862; first lieutenant, 
March 11, 1862; died February 28, 1863, from wounds received in action at Antietam. 
First Lieutenant William Fursman. (See Staff.) Captain John R. Rockwell, dis- 
charged for disability October 3, 1863. First Lieutenant John W. McGregor, dis- 
charged February 10, 1862. First Lieutenant Philander A. Cobb, discharged May 
11, 1863. Second Lieutenant Cyrus F. Rich, resigned on account of physical dis- 
ability November 30, 1863. Second Lieutenant Stephen Redshaw, dismissed Octo- 
ber 31, 1863. First Lieutenant William J. Tabor, promoted from sergeant, May 3, 
1863; killed in action at Cedar Creek, October 19, 1864, Second Lieutenant Jeremiah 
Stel)bins, promoted from sergeant. May 9, 1863; mustered out with battalion. 

The following are the names of the officers of the Thirtieth Regi- 
ment, New York Volunteers, with promotions, discharges, resignations 
and deaths: 

Edward Frisby, colonel, killed at battle of Bull Run, August 30, 1863. 

William M. Searing, major, promoted lieutenant-colonel March 22, 1863; colonel 
September 30, 1862; mustered out with regiment. 

Charles E. Brintnall, captain, promoted lieutenant-colonel May 21, 1861; resigned 
March 11, 1862. 

Morgan H. Chrysler, captain, promoted major March 11, 1863; lieutenant-colonel 
September 20, 1862; mustered out with regiment. 

Albert J. Perry, captain, promoted major October 39, 1863; mustered out with 
regiment; brevet lieutenant-colonel. 

Richard C. Bentley, adjutant, promoted major Sixty-third Regiment February 
16, 1863. 

Alonzo Alden, second lieutenant, promoted adjutant June 10, 1862. 

Miles T. BHven, captain, dismissed December 31, 1861 ; commissioned adjutant Octo- 
ber 37, 1862; resigned January 17, 1863. 

Zebulon M. Knight, adjutant, mustered out with regiment. 

Charles E. Russ, quartermaster, promoted to captain and acting quartermaster 
August 5, 1862. 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 247 

Stephen W. Trull, quartermaster, mustered out with regiment. 

Francis L. R. Chapin, surgeon, mustered out with regiment. 

Julius A. Skilton, assistant surgeon, promoted surgeon Eighty-seventh Regiment 
January 17, 1863. 

Fowler Prentice, assistant surgeon, promoted surgeon Seventy-third Regiment 
March 29, 1862. 

R. M. Deering, assistant surgeon, mustered out with regiment. 

Horace T. Hawks, assistant surgeon, mustered out with regiment. 

Nathan G. Axtell, chaplain, resigned October 8, 1862. 

Samuel King, captain, died September 1, 1862. 

John H. Campbell, first lieutenant, promoted captain October 29, 1862 ; mustered 
out with regiment. 

Warren L. Lansing, captain, mustered out with regiment. 

J. Seymour Scott, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant November 1, 1861 ; 
captain January 27, 1862; mu.stered out with regiment. 

Barent M. Van Voast, captain, dismissed March 7, 1862. 

Mause V. V. Smith, first lieutenant, promoted captain May 13, 1863; resigned. 

Samuel D. Potts, first lieutenant, promoted to captain February 19, 1863; mus- 
tered out with regiment. 

Edgar S. Jennings, first lieutenant, promoted to captain January 27. 1863; dis- 
missed April 4, 1862. 

Harrison Holliday, captain, died September 17, 1863, of wounds received in action. 

Joseph Williams, first lieutenant, promoted captain October 17, 1862; mustered 
out with regiment. 

Robert B. Everett, captain, transferred to Seventy-sixth Regiment May 2.'5, 1863. 

Asa L. Gurney, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant December 12, 1861; 
captain April 9, 1862 ; mustered out with regiment. 

John Van Rensselaer, captain, not mustered. 

Walter P. Tillman, captain, mustered out with regiment. 

John M. Landon, captain, mustered out with regiment. 

Bartholomew Pruyn, captain, discharged October 3, 1862. 

Adam Lampman, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant January 27, 1863; 
captain February 19. 1863; mustered out with regiment. 

William Shelley, first lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 

Philip Casey, first lieutenant, died October 4, 1861, at Upton Hill, Va. 

Harrison Holt, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, February 19, 1868; 
discharged March 13, 1863. 

Bernard Gilligan, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, May 9, 1863; mus- 
tered out with regiment. 

Edward Van Voast, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant. May 13, 1863; 
mustered out with regiment. 

Mervin G. Putnam, first lieutenant, resigned January 13, 1863. 

John H. Marston, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, January 27, 1863, 
but not mustered as such. 

James M. Andrews, jr., second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant. March 13, 
1862; mustered out with regiment. 



248 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Alfred Sherman, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, October 37, 1862; 
dismissed March 5, 1863. 

Theodore Buckman, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, May 9, 1863; 
mustered out with regiment. 

Andrew M. Franklin, first lieutenant, discharged September 11, 1863. 
Philip Keller, first lieutenant, transferred to Seventy-sixth Regiment, May 35, 
1863. 

William T. Conkling, first lieutenant, died November 28, 1861, at Washington, 
D. C. 

Walter Cutting, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, April 9, 1S63; captain 
and aid-de-camp, July 12, 1862. 

Thomas Smith, first lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
Lemuel B. Ball, first lieutenant, resigned October 11, 1861. 

Sylvester W. Barnes, second lieutenant, promoted fir.st lieutenant, October 29, 
1861 ; dismissed September 18, 1862. 

Robert W. Cross, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, October 27, 1862; 
dismissed December 13, 1862. 
Thomas Hall, first lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 

Charles Roth, second lieutenant, promoted first lieutenant, March 4, 1863; mus- 
tered out with regiment; brevet major. 

Gilbert W. Becker, first lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
Francis Dargen, second lieutenant, killed August 30, 1863, at Bull Run, Va. 
William D. Jones, second lieutenant, not mustered. 
Andrew Smith, second lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
William L. Peck, second lieutenant, not mustered. 
Alexander Gillespie, second lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
George H. Overocker, second lieutenant, resigned December 30, 1863. 
Herbert H. Bryans, second lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
Nathaniel Palmer, second lieutenant, cashiered January 30, 1862. 
William Buchanan, second lieutenant, transferred to Seventy-sixth Regiment, 
May 24, 1863. 

Robert G. Noxon, second lieutenant, transferred to Seventy-sixth Regiment, May 
25, 1863. 

John W. Gafney, second lieutenant, not mustered. 
Philip Rice, second lieutenant, killed in action, August 29, 1862. 
William S. Haight, second lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
Henry Osborn, second lieutenant, resigned December 30, 1862. 
David Burnham, second lieutenant, mustered out with regiment. 
William Morse, second lieutenant, killed in action at Bull Run, August 30, 1862. 
Michael Long, second lieutenant, transferred to Seventy-sixth Regiment, May 35, 
1863. 
George Trainor, second lieutenant, not mustered. 

It is a matter of great and everlasting regret that the officials of 
many of the towns in Saratoga county did not keep an accurate list of 
the names of the brave men who went to the front for the defense of 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



249 



the Union between the years of 1861 and 1865. In 1875 the State en- 
acted a law directing the compilation of a record of the soldiers in that 
war, by every town and city in the State; but some towns either neg- 
lected to write such a record or since that time their officers have lost 
it. The following list of names is the most accurate obtainable." The 
names are given under the headings of the township in which they re- 
sided at the time of enlistment. Those whose names are marked with 
asterisks died in the service: 



Francis I. Allen, 
James H. Adams, 
James A. Andrews, 
William H. Austin, 
Reuben Alden,* 
John Adams, jr., 
Reuben Alden, 2d, 
James M. Andrews, 2 
Henry Adams, 
James W. Austin, 
R. Alden, 
John Adkins, 
William i^dkins, 
James F. Austin, 
Sylvester Andrews, 
John Abbott, 
William Beardsley, 
John Betts, 
Julius P. Bennett, 
Dennis S. Barringer, 
Charles H. Benedict, 
John H. Briggs.* 
Clarence Bruce, 
Mansfield Bruce, 
Halsey Bowe,* 
George BuUard, 
William H. Brown, 
John W. Belding,* 
Jeremiah Baker, 
Herbert H. Bryant, 
Lewis Brassel, 
Lester D. Bardwell. 



Saratog.-^ Spkini.:s. 

Peter Bell, 
George Bourne,* 
Samuel Burpee, 
Norman Bennett, 
Frederick Bennett, 
Royal B. Brown, 
James Burke, 
John Berigin, 
William G. Bryant, 
Cassius M. Busbee, 
Richard A. Betts, 
John A. Brown, 
George W. Brisbin, 
Rollin D. Baker, 
Luther Bingham, 
Louis I. Bruso, 
William H. Brown, 2d, 
Alfred M. Baldwin,* 
Ambrose Blodgett, 
Spencer L Blanchard, 
John M. Bennett, 
Charles Bacon, 
Lewis H. Balch, 
Charles Blanchard, 
Elon Bullard, 
Charles K. Burnham,- 
Erskine B. Branch, 
George Bellamy, 
John Boyd, 
Timothy Brophy, 
Charles G. Bemens, 
George Brooks. 



Schuyler Boyce, 
Amasa Bartlett, 
William H. Blackwood, 
George N. Blackwood, 
Arthur L. Burns, 
Norman Barnum, 
Edgar A. Burt, 
Dennis G. Bushnell, 
John Ballard, 
L. D. Bardwell, 
Samuel B. Burk, 
Richard A. Betts, 
John Beach, 
Smith Brill, 
Miles T. Bliven, 
John Brainard, 
William Beagle, 
Richard Brewer, 
Silas B. Blowers, 
Duncan Cameron, 
Lewis E. Close,* 
Enos Crandall, 
Michael Costello, 
Paul Crandall, 
John Collins, 
Edward Curry, 
Thomas Costello, 
Wilbur M. Clark, 
Selden Colebridge, 
Patrick Colophy, 
Hiram E. Collins. 
John Croate, 



' We are indebted to .Sylvester's History of Saratoga County for these names of residents of 
Saratoga county who participated in the war of the Rebellion. The author advertised the list 
£or correction in each town, and it undoubtedly is as nearly correct as will ever be obtainable. 



aoo 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



Thomas Casey, 
Henry B. Clute, 
John G. Casey, 
John H. Cozzens, 
William Carlow, 
Augustus Cook, 
Isaac D. Clapp, 
James E. Couch, 
James Church, 
Simon Cary, 
Albert Close, 
Charles Cook, 
John J. Cameron,* 
Isaac L Crook, 
Piatt Clute, 
Richard C. Cary, 
James M.Cole, jr., 
William R. Chase, 
George W. Carragan,- 
Henry Clayton, 
Daniel Casey,* 
Timothy Conners, 
Timothy Cady, 
William Cheeney, 
Theron Conklin, 
Thomas Cochrane, 
James Connelly, 
Thomas Clark, 
Michael Casey, 
George R. Chase, 
Selden C. Clabridge (?), 
Patrick Curran, 
James Curran, 
John W. Case, 
Richard Clary, 
Obed M. Coleman, 
William Cole, 
Benjamin Crandell, 
William Conklin, 
Thomas Cahill, 
Michael Clerman, 
George M. Close,* 
James L. De Graff, 
Rulofif H. Deyoe, 
John N. DelofE, 
Jacob A. Deyoe, 
William Dutcher, 



William Dingham, 
Elijah Dean, jr., 
Charles Davis, 
John H. Derby, 
John B. Darrow,* 
Alexander Dunn, 
Darius L. Davis, 
Henry C. Darrow,* 
Andrew J. Dowen,* 
John H. Dowen, 
William Dowen, jr., 
Barnett Dowen, 
John D. Dowen, 
Josiah Dowen, 
Seth Duel, 

George W. Dingman, 
William D. Doolittle, 
William Doe,* 
William H. Deyoe,* 
Chester Dowd,* 
Michael Danby, 
George Derby, jr , 
Edwin Delong. 
Beecher Deming, 
Horace Deming, 
John M. Dubois, 
Charles B. Delaud, 
John Deyoe, 
William Devine,* 
John Dumphy, 
John Digraan,* 
Thomas Dunnigan,* 
Jacob A. Deyoe, 
Patrick Dolan, 
Thomas Delany, 
James Deneffe,* 
John Donahue, 
Peter Davis, 
Samuel E. Davis, 
Charles W. Derby, 
George Deuel, 
Eh Dietz, 

William H. Dwyer, 
John E. L. Deuel, 
James Evans, 
Harry W. Eggleston, 
Theodore Eggleston, 



George Elliott, 
Jarvis Emigh, 
Oliver Evans, 
Charles Esmond, 
Clarence E. Elems, 
Charles Elems, 
James Eames, 
Gilbert Edmonds, 
Sampson Ellis, 
Austin Elmer, 
Andrew J. Freeman, 
John W. Freeman, 
George S. Freeman, 
Charles Fitzgerald, 
William Flood,* 
Lawrence Funk, 
Clinton B. Fay, 
Thomas S. Fowler, 
John W. Fay, 
Lucas A. Folmsbee, 
John Flaherty, 
William Foley, 
Andrew M. Franklin, 
Henry D. Forbush, 
Charles Fryer, 
Michael Fitzgibbons, 
William Foyle,* 
Edward H. Fuller, 
Leonard Fletcher, 
Winsor B. French, 
Horatio N. Finch, 
Francis W. Fletcher,* 
George Farrar, 
Jacob A. Garey, 
James Gailor, 
Joel G. Gailor, 
Clarence F. Goodspeed, 
Stephen H. Guest, 
Henry G. Gurney, 
Henry Gilbert, 
Smith J. Gurney, 
Frank Gilbert, 
David H. Graves, 
Elijah H. Garner, 
John A. Gilbert, 
George H. Gillis, 
George Gick, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



251 



Truman I. Gilbert, 
John A. Gazeley, 
Lorenzo Gregory, 
Charles H. Goss, 
James Goss, 
Samuel Gilbert,* 
James Green,* 
Horace B. Gilbert, 
James Garry, jr., 
Lodwick S. Green, 
Thomas Greenleaf, 
J. T. Goodspeed,* 
Joseph W. Height, 
Benjamin B. Hyde, 
Elisha Hewitt, 
Dennis Heenan, 
George Hagadorn, 
John H. Houghton, 
Harman Hagadorn, 
John Hardy, 
Griffin Haight, 
Jerome Hudson, 
John W. Ham," 
Edwin Ham, 
Smith Herrick,* 
Benjamin A. Harrington, 
Richard Hutchings, 
Elias Hunter, 
Charles H. Hodges. 
Francis W. Horton, 
- William Hall, 
James R. Hinds, 
James Hendrick.* 
Uelos Hammond, 
Warren C. Hall, 
Myron B. Hall, 
Henry Haas," 
William H. Hall, 
Jefferson J. Hyde, 
Charles N. Hall, 
James G. Hall, 
Charles Hudson, 
William H. HoiTman, 
William J. Hammond, 
Thomas Hoey, 
James R. Hinds, 
Alexander Hays, 



William Hoffman,* 
Aaron Hase,* 
Jonathan Hopkms, 
Horace Hamell, 
John Hall 2d, 
Henry Hunt, 
Harmon Holt, 
William Hays, 
John H. Hudson, 
Hiram Hendrick, 
Henry Hagadorn, 
Alden S. Huling, 
Edward M. Holcomb, 
John Handley, 
James H. Huested, 
Joel Hays, 
James H. Hudson, 
Christopher C. Hill, 
Edmund J. Huling, 
Ferdinand Height, 
Charles W. Hemingway, 
George Ingersoll, 
George W. Ingersoll, 
James B. Johnson, 
Frer'erick U. Jordan, 
Horace L. Jordan, 
David E. Johnson, 
Jeptha Johnson, jr., 
Enoch I. Johnson, 
Henry Johnson, 
Frank H. Juncket, 
Benjamin F. Judson, 
Michael Jennings, 
Harvey Jones, 
John G. Kitchner, 
Peter Knickerbocker,* 
William Kimpton,* 
William Kelly, 
Thomas Kelly, 
John Kelly, 
Horace Kelly, 
Morris Kelly, 
Robert Keith, 
Daniel W. Kendall, 
John Kennedy, 
Charles Ketchum,* 
Peter Kemp, 



Martin Lovvery,* 
David W. Langdon, 
George Lawrence, 
Peter Lyons, 
Martin De Lacture, 
Joseph Larose, 
James A. Lee, 
Alexander Lee, 
George B. Lyons, 
Luther M. Loper, 
Francis Leroy, 
Edward Lorance, 
Oscar F. Lockwood, 
George Laney, 
John Layan, 
John La Clare, 
Joseph H. Loveland, 
Edwin Lawrence, 
James M. Lowery,* 
Timothy Lowery,* 
Francis Le Clerk,* 
James H. Leggett,* 
Franklin E. Lawrence,' 
John Lowery, 
William A. Langdon, 
Frank Loveland, 
Andrew M. Lee, 
David McNeil,* 
John G. Michaels, 
Herman McPherson, 
Andrew McIIwain, 
Florence McCarty, 
Nicholas D. Maffitt, 
Levi Mcintosh, 
John J. Monroe, 
William H. Monroe, 
Ira McNeil, 
George B. Mingay, 
Warren E. Miller, 
Allen McLean, 
William H. McClean, 
John D. McDonald, 
John Miller, 
James McDonaldson, 
Edward Marsham, 
Patrick McDonald, 
William McGovern, 



252 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



William McDade,* 
Michael McDade,* 
William McCall, 
James B. McKean, 
James Minnick, 
Peter Murphy, 
Charles Myers, 
Justus J. May, 
Riley Miller, 
Allen McLain, 
Cieorge Moore, 
Edward McNary, 
Peter McCue, 
George H. Miller, 
Hiram Myers, 
Isaac Myers, 
Lafayette Myers, 
Alexander Martin, 
William L. Monroe, 
Charles C. Morehouse, 
Adreal Moore, 
William Marshall, 
William Morrison, 
George H. Morris, 
James Mingay, 
Thomas Mathew, jr., 
Michael McCormick, 
Moses Milliman, 
Erastus Mitchell, 
John W. Murray, 
John C. Marston, 
Joseph Muirer,* 
George McGovern, 
Tunis Nesbitt, 
Austin Nash, 
Martin V. Norton,*' 
Charles Nevins, 
Martin Nash,* 
Thomas Ostrander, 
John Obein, 
John Oheren, 
Frederick N. Owen, 
Samuel Osburn, 
Thomas Putnam, 
John R. Peace, 
Abram Price, 
George H. Putnam, 



George H. Potts, 
Charles Phelps, 
George Pitkin, 
Nathan G. Phelps, 
Henry F. Putnam, 
Edward S. Pearsall, 
John Patterson, 
Emmett J. Patterson, 
Stephen H. Pierce,* 
George E. Pulling, 
John L. Perry, 
James Plunkett,* 
Hugh J. Patterson, 
William Poucher, 
Mervin G. Putnam, 
Albert J. Perry, 
Hiram Augustus Peck, 
William C. Putnam, 
William Putnam, 
John M. Putnam, 
Jerome Purdy, 
(George F. Peruvielle, 
Robert S. Prior, 
Horatio G. Peck, 
Albert I. Quimby, 
Simeon D. Russell,* 
George R. Reno, 
John Redmond, 
John Rose, 
Gilbert N. Rose,* 
Sherman Raymond, 
John Reed, 
Simeon W. Rowley,* 
Gideon M. Rowley,* 
Henry C. Rowland, 
Orrin R. Rugg,* 
Charles O. Richardson, 
Alexander Rouch, 
James Ryan, 
James Reagan, 
Joseph H. Rogers, 
Edwin Rasell, 
Lester Rose, 
Solomon W. Russell, 
Charles N. Reno, 
Cornelius Rose, 
Hiram Root, 



Louis Sicard,* 
Josiah Stratton, 
Franklin Spicer, 
Frank Snow, 
Thomas B. Smith, 
Frederick Suntler, 
Henrj' St. Clair, 
James M. Steenburgh, 
Elisha A. Steen, 
William O. Sullivan, 
Abram B. Smith, 
William H. Sexton,* 
Andrew J. Smith, 
Robert H. Skinner, 
Daniel Smith,* 
James H. Smith,* 
Elum Sustin, 
Andrew J. Smith, 
Edward W. Smith, 
Dennis B. Smith, 
George H. Scidmore, 
James Stevens, 
Thomas H. Sexton, 
Charles E. Sexton, 
Benjamin F. Stilhvell,* 
James Stevens, 
Benjamin F. Slecht, 
Charles Sexton, 
Howard T. Sexton, 
Lewis J. Smith,* 
Thomas Stewart, 
John Sagon, 
Henry H. Shill, 
John Smith, 
Don D. Stone,* 
John H. Shaft, 
William H. Salisbury, 
Oliver Smith, 
George R. Smith, 
Edward Silvey, 
James E. Snyder, 
Riley V. Suydam, 
Abner Smith,* 
George A. Smith, 
Egbert B. Savage, 
Charles S. Sherman, 
Edward Squires, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



253 



Nelson Swan, 
William M. Searing, 
Owen Sullivan, 
Edward Sullivan, 
Charles H. Tompkins, 
Peter Taylor,* 
Edward H. Thorn, 
John Thornton, 
R. S. Tourtellot, 
John Turner, 
Michael Teathers, 
William Taylor, 
John Tompkins, 
Charles DeForest Thurber, 
William J. Taber,* 
George Thompson, 
Jesse B. Thorn, 
Stephen Trumble, 
William B. Thorn, 
Jacob Thompson, 
Edward Van Rensselaer. 
Newman Van Wie, 
Charles W. Van Petten, 
Joseph Valentine, 
Frederick Voxraan. 
Abram L. Viele, 
John R. Valentine, 
William W. Worden, 
William H. Walker, 



Augustus R. Walker, 
Oscar B. Walker, 
James H. Wilson, 
D. J. Wheeler, 
George H. Weeks, 
Andrew J. Williamson, 
Thomas M. White, 
Luther M. Wheeler, 
Henry Whitman, 
Andrew A. Weatherwax, 
John W. Whittaker, , 
James Welch, 
Hiram Weatherwa.x, 
Jerome Weatherwax, 
Patrick Winn, 
Samuel Wilcox, 
Thomas J. Wheaton, 
Dennis Welch, 
Frederic G. Woodward, 
George H. Winne, 
Charles Welch, 
Andrew Weed, 
Joseph H. Weatherwax, 
David W. Weatherwax, 
Wallace W. Wickham, 
Alexander K. Waldron, 
Lewis Wood, 
Alonzo Williams, 
Elisha A. Waters, 



Henry W. Whitman, 
John Weeks, 
Thomas A. White, 
Addison Walker, 
Daniel Webster, 
Robert Williams, 
Bernard Winn, 
Edwin AVashman, 
Samuel Weeks, 
Andrew J. Weed, 
James Wiley, 
Charles H. Wildy, 
Daniel G. Wager, 
Luke Welch, 
John Washburn, 
George Washburn, 
George A. Webb, 
James B. Walley, 
John C. Winney, 
Bruce Winney, 
Smith C. Whitcomb,' 
Edward W. Winne, 
William K. Young, 
tieorge Young, 
George Young, jr., 
Uriah Young, 
William H. Yale, 
Frederick Zwanker, 
Gustavus Zack." 



Edward S. Armstrong, 
Thomas Andrews, 
Frazer Atkins, 
William Abbs, 
Andrew J. Armstrong, 
William G. Bradshaw, 
Alexander J. Beach,*" 
Jay Burnham, 
Henry W. Burnham, 
George H. Briggs, 
Abrara (t. Bradt, 
William Bradt, 
George H. Bradt, 
John Barnhart, 
George W. Bigelow, 



Bai.lston. 

William G. Ball, 
Marcus S. Barrows. 
Frank Clark, 
William Davis, 
Thomas H. Dorsey, 
Andrew J. Dubois, 
Josiah Dean, 
James Dunk, 
Christopher Emperor, 
Warren Earls, 
John Emperor, 
John S. Fuller, 
David Frisbie, 
James Grooms, 
Patrick Goonan, 



Stephen S. Horton, 
George Hughes, 
Philip M. Hill, 
Joshua Heritage, 
Frank Harris, 
George Hoyt. 
Edwin C. Hoyt, 
Thomas Harris, 
Joseph F. Jones,* 
i). K. Smith Jones,* 
Ransom Knight, 
Michael Kildea, 
Otis King, 
John Kildea, 
John Kearnes, 



354 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



Alfred H. Kingsley, 
Hugh Kelley. 
Truman M. Loveland, 
John Lanehart, 
Jacob Lansing, 
Moses Lewis, 
Richard Millard. 
Frederick Martin, 
William H. Mcintosh, 
Richard L. Mcintosh, 
Edward Middleton, 
Patrick McGarr, 
John Morris, 



Dennis Avery, 
Russell Avery, 
Dennis Aley, 
Jacob H. Aley, 
Madison Aley, 
William Armstrong, 
Dudley Avery, 
Calvin B. Allen, 
Harlow Abbott, 
Alexander Annable,* 
Solomon Ageter, 
David Avery, 
Charles Barbour, 
John Burdick, 
Charles H. Bartlett, 
James Bourne,* 
Abraham Brewer, 
Alonzo D. Bump, 
Edward Baker,* 
Charles D. Brown, 
David Borst,* 
Benjamin A. Briggs, 
George M. Boise,* 
Cornelius P. Brewer,* 
John Brainard, 
Frederick Burdick, 
Lorin Brown, 
William Brewer, 
Nelson Boutier, 
George W. Brazier, 
Robert Barber, 



Charles Massey, 
Samuel H. Nelson, 
Samuel Nelson,* 
Beekman Near, 
Adam Niles, 
William H. Quivey, 
Aaron B. Quivey, 
Patrick Reidy,* 
Horace L. Stiles, 
(ieorge E. Springer, 
Hiram R. Sweet, 
William Schism, 



Saratoga. 

William H. Brewer, 
Francis Brewer, 
Edwin W. Burrage, 
Charles H. Bordwell, 
Seymour Burch, 
Henry Baker, 
Levi Clapper, 
Henry Crandall, 
Joseph Cartright, 
Louis Colburn, 
Alonzo B. Carpenter, 
Alonzo B. Clark, 
Albert H. Clements, 
Edward Conners, 
Volney Craw. 
John Chapman, 
John J. Clements, 
Daniel A. Cole. 
McKendrick Curtis, 
James Clark, 
James Curtis,* 
Asa J. Clothier, 
Norman Casler, 
Enos Crowningshield,* 
Francis Cooney, 
Thomas Cooney, 
John Cooney, 
John Conners, 
Philander A. Cobb, 
Charles Chedell, 
William Cooney, 



John Spicer, 
John H. Shivis, 
Benjamin J. Severance, 
James D. Thompson, 
Alonzo Vandenberg, 
James H. Vanderwerker, 
William W. Worden, 
William Wait, 
John J. Wood, 
Gilbert Warren, 
Jacob Wager, 
Norman F. Weeks. 



Nelson W. Cadmau, 
Ephraim P. Cooper, 
Henry Culver, 
Patrick Cooney, 
Charles Davis, 
Robert Dixon, 
James Dawenson, 
Dennison Dodge, 
Chauncey Dudley, 
Pliny F. Dunn, 
Andrew Duval, 
Harrison Davenport, 
Charles S. Dudley, 
Emery Doolittle, 
John Davenport, 
Martin Davis, 
George Davenport, 
David Davenport, 
Andrew B. Deuel, 
Edward Dunston, 
John Dance, 
George Delavarge, 
William Diamond, 
Jonathan Dean, jr.,* 
Edward Dwyer, 
Joseph A. Eastman, 
Thomas Elems, 
Ellery Elems, 
Isaac K. Finch,* 
John Flanders,* 
William H. Fursman, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



255 



James O. Fairchilds, 
John H. Forester, 
Michael Falon, 
Michael Fitzgibbons, 
Thomas Fox, 
Daniel Flanagan, 
Stei^hen Frost. 
Jonah D. Groesbeck, 
William Green,* 
Albert S. Green, 
Joseph A. Green,* 
Earl Green,* 
Wells Green, 
Patrick L. Gilroy,* 
Patrick Galvin, 
Morgan L. Holmes, 
George R. Holmes, 
Newton C. Harris, 
James H. Hazard, 
Henry Haas (or Hass),* 
Jerome Hudson, 
Erebus Hulburt, 
Jacob F. Haywood, 
Joseph Hazeltine, 
Edward Hickok, 
William H. Harrington, 
Charles Hart,* 
Warren M. Haight, 
Thomas Hoyt, 
Griffin Haight, 
Richard Hays, 
George Hess,* 
Eugene Hopkins, 
Frank Hall,* 
John H. Hilkey,* 
David R. Husted, 
Mansfield M. Harrington, 
Sylvester S. Haight, 
George H. Hammond, 
Joseph H. Hays, 
Jonathan Hopkins, 
Alonzo Hammond, 
John W. Hines, 
Thomas Hallagan, 
William H. Hamilton, 
Thomas Harlow, 
Corwin Holmes, 



Jerome Huet, 
Alvin S. Hemstreet, 
William Ingham, 
John Jones, 
Philip Johnson, 
James Jeffords, 
Francis I. Jeffords, 
Ebenezer Jacquith, 
Oliver Jones, 
Lyman Jones, 
Samuel D. Jeffords, 
James Knowlton, 
William Kelley, 
Naphthali W. Kenyon, 
John Kern, 
John Kritley, 
Elisha Lohnes, 
Andrew V. Leonard, 
James Lynch, 
John Lee, 
Adelbert Lucas, 
Joseph Laport, 
George D. Lovejoy, 
Nathan Munn, 
James H. Myers, 
Edwin A. Merchant,* 
John McMurray, 
George H. Myers, 
Michael Munster, 
John McClellan, 
John Moon, 
Michael McGuire, 
Warren E. Miller, 
Patrick McDaniel, 
Joseph Meurer,* 
William McGovern, 
William McCall, 
Henry Munn, 
Edwin McCuUough, 
Lewis Martin, 
William H. Marsh.* 
Alexander Maltby, 
Edward Murray,* 
Willard McCreedy, 
Melvin McCreedy,* 
George McCreedy, 
Henry McCreedy, 



Robert McPherson,* 
Hugh McMahon, 
James Mason, 
Samuel McCreedy, 
John W. McGregor, 
Edward P. Marshall. 
James A. Moni-oe, 
William McNulty, 
Thomas Mushgrove,* 
Edwin Marshall, 
James McLane, 
Nathan Munn, 
Charles H. McNaughton, 
James H. Myers, 
John Moore, 
John A. Myers, 
John McLarnon. 
Prosper Morrison, 
Wesley Mott, 
George McGovern, 
Albert Ogden, 
Charles M. Osborne,* 
James O'Brien. 
Henry Owen, 
Sumner Oakley,* 
Benjamin Orton, 
John S. Osborne, 
William H. Osborne, 
Aaron Osborne, 
James Palmer, 
Henry Plant,* 
William Pike, 
Lorenzo Phillips, 
David A. Pennock, 
Fletcher B. Pennock, 
Philip Purdy, 
Jerome Purdy, 
Henry Pratt, 
Patrick Quigley, 
James Robertson, 
Thomas Ryan, 
George Rice, 
Henry Robertson. 
John R. Rockwell. 
Patrick Ryan. 
John H. Radley. 
William Richards,* 



256 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



Joseph Rested, 
John Rowley, jr., 
Jonathan I. Rhodes, 
John A. Reuchler,* 
Cyrus F. Rich, 
George Root, 
R. H. Saint, 
William Slocum, 
James Strong, 
Morris Sullivan, 
Franklin Short, 
George R. Smith, 
Henry B. Shreeves,* 
Edward Smack,* 
John Stone, 
Pierpont Stickney, 
Jerome Snow, 
Eli W. Smith, 
Seneca Smith, 
Murty Sullivan, 
John Sanborn,* 
William H. Smith, 
John G. Strang, 
Samuel S. Squires, 
Henry Simpson, 
Adolph Schmidt, 
William M. Searing, 
B. H. Searing, 
Matthew Simonds, 
Charles Stahr, 
Rensselaer Stafford, 
George Sutfin,* 

Adna Abbs, jr., 
William Arnold,* 
Charles Andrews, 
Alonzo Allen, 
Arnold T. Ayers, 
Braman Ayers, jr., 
William Abbs, 
William Campbell, 
Ephraim J. Tripp, 
William Bartel. 
William Bortell, 



George T. Stevens, 
Lucius E. Shurtliff. 
Arthur Scott,* 
Franklin Stay, 
Daniel C. Simonds, 
James A. Stearns,* 
Hiram Storrs, 
Ernest Schmidt, 
Frederick Straucher, 
Joseph Swarts, 
Edward L Smith, 
George Smith, 
Frank Thomas, 
Gilbert F. Thomas,* 
Frederick Tombs,* 
Kenyon Tefft, 
Israel F. Tanner, 
Samuel W. Tanner, 
James Tighe, 
Henry Tovee, 
Reuben K. Thompson, 
Loren M. Toms,* 
George Thompson, 
Levi Van Schaick, 
Robert Van Slyke, 
Warner Van Valkenburgh, 
Gordon Van Valkenburgh, 
Richard Van Antwerp, 
Benjamin Viele, 
Samuel Van Order, 
Seneca Van Ness, 



Lewis Wood, 
John Williams, 
Hiram K. Wilcox, 
John Wright, 
Thomas Whitman, 
James H. Whaley, 
William Wildey, 
George H. Welch, 
Hiram Weaver, 
John B. Welch, 
Joseph Welch, 
Stephen Welch, 
Andrew J. Weed, 
Charles H. Welch, 
De Witt C. Winney,' 
Gardner Winney, 
Bruce Winney, 
Francis K. Winney, 
John C. Winney,' 
Washington H. Wood, 
Leroy Whitman, 
Hamilton White, 
John A. Walrath, 
H. W. Wright, 
Lucius E. Wilson, 
'Titus C. White, • 
Silas S. White, 
Henry Wilbur, 
Clifford Weston,* 
Charles Wilsey, 
Thomas White. 



Mll.TON. 

Daniel E. Bortell, 
Thomas C. Black, 
Marcus Burras, 
James Bortell,* 
William A. Baker, 
William G. Ball, 
George Bolton,* 
Isaac Boise, 
William H. Boise,* 
Nathan Brown, 
Andrew Brower, 



' Killed June 35, 1876, at the Custer 
*Four of these representatives of the Winney 



David Borst, 
James W. Bacon, 
Case Ballou, 
Edwin Bobenreath. 
Alexander J. Beach, 
John H. Briggs, 
Miles E. Burby, 
William Barrett, 
George Bowers, 
Thomas J. Bradt, 
James Conlan, 

massacre. 
family were brothers. 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



257 



William Craig,* 
Josephi Cromack,* 
Charles P. Cornell, 
Lewis Calkins,* 
Benjamin H. Carr, 
Clark Collins, 
George H. Curreen, 
Patrick Cannon, 
Philip S. Christy, 
Mark Cochran, 
James W. Cole, 
Eugene N. Carroll, 
George Cruise, 
James Cuyler, 
Jared L. Crouch. 
Charles M. Carter, 
Hubert Curtis, 
William J. Chilson, 
Thomas Craig, 
John Crouch, 
Egbert W. Davis, 
Robert N. Delong, 
Joseph R. Day,* 
Benjamin H. Day,* 
Truman Deuel, 
Stephen Davis, 
James Dunk, 
John Duckett, 
Wesley J. Date, 
Henry C. Delong, 
Henry C. Dye, 
Robert Delong, 
Henry Davis, 
William Eastham, 
Nathan Eldredge, 
Alfred Eighmy, 
Edward Estabrook, 
Patrick English, 
Leonard Englehart, 
Warren Earl, 
James Emperor,* 
Schuyler Freeman. 
William D. Freeman, 
Cyrus M. Fay, 
Robert Fox,* 
Andrew J. Freeman, 
George F. Foster, 
17 



James V. Fogg,* 
Herman C. Fowler, 
Samuel Farnsworth, 
Collins Foster, 
John Fuller, 
A. M. Fitzgerald, 
Elenah Gildersleeve, 
David E. Goffe, 
Gottfried Gleesattle, 
George T. Graham, 
Justus M. Gilson,* 
Frederick Gleesattle, 
James K. Gillespie, 
John Greer. 
Harley Groesbeck, 
David Galusha, 
Terence Gregg, 
John Goeghan, 
George R. Goodwin, 
Dudley Goodwin. 
John Hegeman. 
Charles Howard, 
Ozias Hewitt, 
Clement C. Hill, 
Noble G. Hammond, 
Alanson F. Hatch,* 
Amasa A. Holbrook, 
Otis Holbrook,* 
Cornelius S. Huyck, 
Edward Hall, 
Dallas Hoyt, 
Alexander C. Holmes, 
William H. Hewitt, jr. 
James A. Hanna, 
Seymour Harris, 
Smith Harlow, 
Orrin Hill, 
William B. Horton, 
John B. Harlow, 
John M. Hammond, 
George L. Hayes, 
Andrew Hassett, 
William Hall, 
John Howard, 
Frederick Hope, 
Stephen Harris, 
Nicholas Hudson, 



Alva Hickok, 
William H. Hewitt, 
Martin Hunter, 
Thomas Harris, 
George W. Ingalls, 
Edwin R. Ingalls, 
Benjamin J. Jones, 
William J. Jennings, 
William H. Johnston, 
James Jermain, 
Frederick Keenholtz,* 
Christopher F. Keenholtz, 
Oscar Kemp, 
Edwin L. Lockwood, 
George D. Lutfraan, 
Lewis Lakey,* 
Francis Love,* 
Matthew Love,* 
Moses Lewis, 
John E. Lansing, 
Lewis Lane, 
George Le Clare, 
Jesse R. Lewis, 
William Lewis, 
Henry Lowery, 
Joseph Lewis, 
Wallace Morrison, 
John Mitchell, 
Ale.xander Morrison, 
Thomas Mainhood, 
Alexander Mead, 
David D. Miller,* 
Alexander Mcintosh, 
John F. Mosher,* 
Frederick Morehouse, 
John Mosher, 
George Milham, 
Ferdinand Miller, 
James McNab, 
Wallace Mcintosh, 
John S. McKnight, 
Patrick Murray, 
James B. McLean, 
E. Wilson Merriam, 
Charles Massey, 
Samuel Massey, 
James C. Milliman, 



258 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



II. T. Medbery, 
Robert E. Nelson, 
Henry O'Neil,* 
Elijah Olmstead,* 
Leonard Osnian,* 
John O'Neil, 
W. H. Owen, 
Charles A. Perry, 
Robert Porter, 
Archibald Phillips, 
Anson J. Palmatier, 
Alfred Pickett, 
Cyrus Padelford, 
Reuben Parkhurst, 
Isaac Porter, 
Charles Pettit, 
Asahel W. Potter, 
Henry Packard, 
Albert J. Reid, 
Patrick D. Rooney,* 
James E. Reed, 
Frederick Smith, 
Benjamin T. Simon, 
Lafayette Schermerhoru,* 
Arnold Spicer. 
Paul Settle, jr., 
Charles Shiegel, 
John Southwart, 
Simeon Sill, 
Lorenzo Smith, 
Philip Schaffer, 



John W. Arnold,* 
Lucian Annable, 
John R. Armstrong, 
Loren Abel, 
James Anthony, 
Charles D. Atkinson, 
Adolphus Arnold, 
Julius P. Bennett, 
George Bostwick, 
Orramel T. Bostwick, 
William Burger, 
James Bloomingdale,* 
John Burras, 
Archibald Brown, 



Elijah Sherman, 
Edward C. Slocum, 
Thomas S. Stairs, 
John P. Staples, 
John G. Sternbaur, 
Harris T. Slocum, 
Benjamin Severance, 
Martin V. Sheffer, 
Hiram Sweet, jr., 
Charles H. Sullivan, 
Horace Salisbury, 
Hiram P. Sherman, 
Darius Shill, 
Tobias Salisbury, 
Charles Searles, 
Zagar Strong,* 
Gideon A. Tripp, 
Flavins A. Titus, 
Ira Tripp,* 
James D. Thompson, 
George W. Trumble, 
Royal M. Tenny, 
Ephraim Tiff, 
Isaac Thorp, 
Miletus Taft, 

Sandy R. Van Steenburgh, 
Asa Van Dyke, 
George Van Dyke, 
William R. Van Arnura, 
Jacob H. Van Arnum, 

Stillwater. 

Stephen F. Baker, 
Benjamin A. Briggs, 
Henry Bradt. 
Levi A. Brooks, 
William R. Britton, 
John Barnes, 
Charles H. Betts, 
James Buchanan,* 
Thomas J. Bradt, 
John D. Bristol, 
Lysander Bortle, 
Joseph M. Bullock, 
William M. Carl, 
William S. Com stock,* 



John H. Van Steenburgh, 
Michael Van Horn, 
George L. Van Steenburgh, 
James E. Webster,* 
Joseph S. Wayne,* 
Edmund Williams, 
George M. Wood, 
Horace Weaver, 
Samuel H. Weldon, 
Datus E. Wilbur, 
James M. Wood, 
James A. Wager, 
Eugene Werner, 
Jeremiah Wager, 
Albert L. Wood, 
Norman Wood, 
Charles F. Wait, 
Isaac Warn, 
Albert A. Weatherwax. 
John Walls, 

Alonzo M. Weatherwax, 
William Weatherwax, 
William Webb, 
John R. Wilbur, 
Atwood Wilbur, 
Lee Whalen, 
Daniel Webster, 
George Webster, 
Harvey Young, 
Waldo Young, 



Slocum Clark, 
Seth Cod man, 
Michael Cary,^ 
Joseph Clark, 
Chauncey Crandall, 
George Carr, 
Thomas H. Curley, 
George H. Collaraer, 
William S. Comstock, 
Jesse D. Comstock, 
Joseph Caho, 
Charles Conner, 
Edwin C. Collamer, 
Thomas Collamer, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



259 



James Cowhey, 
Charles Devoe, 
John Dyer, 
Thomas Delany, 
Lorenzo Delun. 
Eli D. Eitzo,* 
Thomas Elms. 
William C. Ensign, 
Thomas Emperor, 
Charles Elms, 
Clarence Elms, 
Charles B. Fellows,* 
Simon Flansburg, 
William Francisco, 
Adam Flansburg, 
Peter Folmsbee 

(or Formsby) 
Jacob Force, 
Elisha R. Freeman, 
John Flynn, 
Henry G. Force, 
Augustus Farriraar, 
George Fry, 
Arthur W. Force, 
John Guest, 
Hubert Gallup,* 
Michael Goodwin. 
William H. Gorham, 
Stephen Guest, 
James Gilbert, 
Lewis G. Gorham. 
George H. Golden, 
Stephen C. Hanson, 
Henry Hagadorn. 
Charles Hart. 
George F. Houghtaling. 
Theodore Hermance, 
Ashton M. Howard, 
B. A. Harrington, 
George W. Hurley, 
Alonzo Howland, 
George W. Hammond, 
Walter Hewitt, 
George Houseman, 
Isaac V. Hammond,* 
Richard Hutchins, 
Sylvester S. Haight, 



Thomas Jones, 
Allen Jones, 
William D. Jones, 
Charles Jeffers, 
Martin Jackson, 
Thomas Keller, 
Isaac Kipp, jr.,* 
Tunis Kipp, 
John H. Kipp, 
George Kline, 
Abel J. Loren, 
Abram Lent, 
Abraham Latham,* 
George E. Lane, 
Reed Looniis, 
Mark Merger, 
Orin Myers, 
Peter M. Mooney, 
Thomas Myers. 
Lafayette M. Myers, 
Henry Milliken,* 
Francis I. Montgomery, 
Alfred Milliken, 
Charles Milliken,* 
Amos McOmber, 
Isaac Myers, jr., 
Leander .Milliken, 
Thomas McCue, 
Andrew M. Carlin, 
George B. Myers, 
Charles Mott. 
Samuel McGowan, 
James Nolan, 
Michael Nolan, 
George W^ Ostrander, 
Elias T. Overocker, 
James F. Outing, 
De Witt C. Overocker, 
Thomas F. Outing, 
William N. Overocker, 
Robert E. Parker, 
James E. Poucher. 
Seneca Poucher. 
Samuel Porter, 
Horatio G. Peck, 
Isaac Porter, 
David Pangburne, 



William Poucher, 
Henry Parris, 
John Phelan. 
James Parker,* 
Peter M. Post, 
Henry O. Packard. 
James Palmer, 
William H. Ouackenbush, 
Tunis W. Quackenbush,* 
Michael Quinlan, 
William R. Rogers, 
Albert A. Rudd, 
Samuel W. Seymour, 
John Smith, 
George Snow, 
Harlow B. Spencer, 
Andrew Sterrett, 
William Shein, 
Nelson W. Stearns,* 
Russell Seymour, 
Henry H. Shell, 
William Smith,* 
Francis D, Short, 
George Snyder, 
James Smith, 
Edward Smith, 
John Stewart,* 
Job S. Saft'ord, 
Warren Seymour, 
Frank Thomas, 
James Taylor, 
David A. Thompson, 
William Taylor, 
Benjamin Thackery, 
Israel Tanner, 
Truman M. Tourtellot, 
Samuel Van Norder, 
Henry J. Van Wie, 
Cornelius Vandenburg, 
Barnard Van Auder 

(or Van Norder), 
Andrew J, Van Wie, 
William N. Viele, 
Newman Van Wie. 
Lawrence Vandenmark, 
John Van Wie, 
Charles Vandeburg, 



260 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



A. J. Walker, 
Horace Wing, 
Charles Webb, 
Michael Wall. 
Richard Walsh, 



Joel S. Ale.xander,* 
Oscar Alexander, 
William H. Alexander, 
William G. Barhydt, 
Walter Barnard, 
John Barnes,* 
Frank D. Barnum, 
Albert Fisk Beach, 
Aaron Berger, 
Henry Bethman, 
Patrick Bolin, 
Samuel C. Bradt,* 
Lewis Broughton, 
Thomas Broughton, 
Nathan H. Brown, 
Edward Cain, 
I/evi Callen, 
William H. Cath. 
David J. Caw, 
George Chambers,* 
Isaac H. Conde, 
John H. Cook,* 
James Cooney, 
Abraham Coonradt,* 
Philip S. Coonradt, 
James H. Corl,* 
Gilbert C. Davidson,* 
Thomas Delong, 
James Drummond, 



Arthur Ashdown, 
John R. Britton, 
Ira Billingham, 
Nelson Batt, 
Courtlandt Backraan, 
James H. Bratt, 
Benjamin Bace,* 
Charles Bace, 



William H. Westcot, 
Lewis C. Ward, 
Charles Wilsey. 
John J. Williams, 
Melvin W. Wilson, 

Charlton. 

James L. Dows,* 
William Foyle,* 
James W. Finch, 
John L. Port,* 
Oren Fowler,* 
Lawrence Gardiner, 
Garrett S. Grovenstein, 
Harvey B. Grovenstein, 
John Grovenstein, 
William C. Harmon,* 
William H. Hart, 
Henry W. Heaton, 
Francis Haynes, 
George Houseman, 
Leroy Hoyt,* 
Orey Hudson, 
Briggs N. Jenne, 
Oscar I. Jenne, 
Edward O. Jennings, 
William H. Jones, 
Charles H. Jones, 
Michael Kildea, 
Alfred H. Kingsley. 
Joseph F. Kingsley, 
James D. Knight, 
Andrew Manning,* 
John Martin, 
David Millard, 
John C. Morehouse, 

Waterford. 

Joseph Black,* 
Sylvester Black,* 
Martin Cody, 
William Curtis, 
John W. Clute, 
Hiram Clute,* 
Patrick Conway,* 
Henry Dummer, 



Lee Whalen, 
Gardner Winney, 
De Witt Winney, 
Edwin Williams, 
John A. Whitman. 



Charles H. Murray, 
John W. Owen, 
William H. Owen, 
John C. Quinn, 
John Rector,* 
Henry C. Riley, 
James Riley, 
John D. Riley, 
Simon Riley, 
Charles W. Rowley, 
Charles R. Severance, 

Slocura, 

Henry A. Smith, 
William. H. Smith, 
Louis W. Stanhope, 
Lorenzo Smith, 
Thomas Stairs, 
George Tanner,* 
Frank Underbill,* 
James H. Underbill, 
Frederick Valentine, 
John Van Evera, 
Peter Wager, 
John W. Ward, 
Manly Warren, 
Barent Wemple, 
George C. Wilder,* 
William E. Wilder,* 
James K. Wilson. 



John Dugan, 
Abram Devitt, 
A. L. Estabrook, 
J. H. Francisco, 
James Frazier, 
James H. Gettings, 
Thomas H. Glavin, 
John Halpin, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



261 



Lawrence Higgins, 
James 1. House, 
Baker Honsinger, 
Patrick Hussey, 
Henry W. Hart, 
Joseph Harriman, 
Samuel Johnson, 
Charles N. Kilby, 
Daniel Lavery, 
Edward Lavery, 
Oscar E. Little, 
Patrick Morrissey, 
Patrick McCall, 
John Murray,* 
John M. Martratt, 
Matthew H. Martratt, 
Patrick McCartey, 
Charles E. Martratt, 
Charles Ogden, 
Benjamin O'Connor, 
George H. Parkman, 



James W. Parks, 
George W. Porter, 
Edwin Porter, 
J. G. Porter,* 
Samuel H. Peters,* 
Newton Peters. 
George L. Rogers, 
Oliver Shaw,* 
Ezra T. Stone, 
Harrison A. Stone, 
Martin Slatterly, 
Ralph A. Savage, 
John W. Schofield, 
Charles A. Schofield, 
John Singleton, 
Charles W. Shepherd, 
Henry Simpson, 
Duane Shepherd, 
John Ten Broeck, 
John H. Van Ordeu, 



Oscar L. Ackley,* 
Jiidson B. Andrews, 
John M. Brewer, 
Joseph H. Bullock, 
Charles H. Betts, 
Ebenezer C. Broughton, 
Augustus W. Bayard, 
George E. Brockvvay, 
George W. Bortle, 
Charles Burnham,* 
Rev. Fred N. Barlow, 
James H. Clark, 
George D. Cole, 
Rev. Sylvester W. Clemens, 
William S. Clemens, 
George Carr, 
Henry G. Craig, 
Simeon W. Crosby, 
Henry Clark, 
Aaron Dillingham,* 
Thomas Donahue, 
Charles W. Dusten, 
Henry B. Dummer, 



Halfmoon. 

Thomas Empterns, 
William H. Evartts,* 
John W. Filkins, 
Ambrose Fowler, 
Peter Folmsbee, 
E. Raymond Fonda,"* 
Abram Filkins, 
Losee Filkins, 
George Freeman, 
Isaac L. Fonda, 
Alfred Gould, 
Fred S. Goodrich, 
William H. Gorham, 
Edward Greene, 
Henry Haylock, 
George T. Hoag, 
George H. Houghtaling, 
James K. P. Himes,* 
James H. Hicks,* 
John Hoover, 
Henry Honeyer, 
Edward Holland, 
Isaac V. Irish, 



James Van Orden, 
Barna Vandekar, 
Joseph C. Vandewerker, 
Schuyler Vandekar, 
William Van Antwerp, 
T. B. Vandekar,* 
John H. Vandewerker,* 
Jesse White, 
Martin Welsh, 
Joseph Wright, 
Edward White, 
Giles B. Wood, 
Lewis Wells, 
Daniel G. Waldron, 
William Welch, 
Ira M. Wilson, 
Lemand Wager, 
John Wright,* 
Edward Welch, 
Lewis B. Wells.* 



John Irish, 
Patrick Kelly, 
James T. Kennedy, 
George Kilmer, 
John Kelly,* 
Aaron Lewis, 
William B. Look, 
Philip Link,* 
Abbott C. Mu.sgrave,* 
John Mulligan, 
Charles H. Milliken,* 
Leander Milliken, 
John McGuire, 
Alfred G. Noxon, 
S. Mitchell Noxon, 
Alfred Phoenix, 
George W. Pettit, 
Hiram Richardson,* 
William Ryan, 
Frank Short, 
William Smith,* 
Henry Sampson, 
Marvin Steenburgh, 



262 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



Henry Shouts, 
Andrew H. Smith, 
John P. Silvernail, 
Duane Shepherd,* 
Almon E. Stone, 
Jacob Sever, 
De Witt Sickler, 
Samuel W. Seymour, 
Samuel D. Stevenson, 



John Smith, 
Solomon P. Smith, 
Chalsey W. Simmons,* 
Frank Smith, 
Benjamin Thackrah 

(or Thackeray), 
Elias D. Tuttle, 
Thomas Thackera)\ 
George Vandercook, 



Warren Van Olinda, 
George T. Van Hoesen, 

Van Dervort, 

James Wilson,* 
John R. Wait, 
Samuel A. Winslow, 
James Wade, 
Albert Wood in. 



Merritt B. Allen, 
Samuel Allen,* 
Thomas Armer,* 
Gideon A. Austin, 
Orville W. Austin, 
Vernam Barber.* 
Henry Bertrand,* 
George Bevin,* 
Henry Boughton,- 
Henry Bolton, 
Miles Bovsfen, 
Smith Briggs,* 
Michael Brusnihan, 
Hiram Broughton, 
John E. Cavert, 
Nicholas Cavert,* 
James Clancy, 
J. W. Clark,* 
John Clifford, 
John Clifford, jr., 
George Colony,* 
Almonte Crater, 
David B. Crittenden, 
James DriscoU, 
Richard Dunberg, 
Charles S. Fisher,* 
Henry Fisher, 
Thomas Fitzgerald,* 
Edward Fosmire, 
Frederick Foss, 
William Foss, 
Alonzo Hermance, 



Galway. 

Alfred Hickok, 
John H. Hicks, 
John P. Hudson, 
Nathan B. Hudson, 
John Hunter, 
James Ireland, 
William Ireland, 
Robert Kelly, 
Oliver Lansing, 
William Leach, 
Everts Lingenfelter, 
John Lowry, 
Joel McCouchie, 
Terence McGovern, 
Thomas McGovern, 
Alonzo H. McKee, 
Samuel McKinney,* 
Ezra McOmber, 
George A. McOmber, 
Simeon D. Mirandeville, 
Henry Morgan, 
Charles Mow, 
John C. Mow, 
James Norris, 
John Norris, 
Benjamin C. Northrup, 
William Orr, 
Charles Ostrander,* 
Calvin W. Preston, 
Frederick W. Putzar,* 
Frederick Quant, 
Patrick Ready,* 
James Reese,* 



James Reese, jr., 
Matthew Relyea, 
William Relyea, 
John L. Root,* 
Seth B. Root, 
John Rubach, 
Simon Ryan, 
Daniel Shayne, 
Thomas Shayne, 
Michael Sheehy, 
Lucius E. Shurtliff, 
John A. Smith, 
William Sullivan, 
Henry Tanner,* 
William Tompkins,* 
William Turner, 
Cornelius Tymeson, 
Eldert Tymeson,* 
Charles F. Wait, 
George W. Welch, 
John W. Whitmarsh, 
Walter W. Zears, 
Charles Cornell, 
James Cowhey, 
Charles H. Crouch, 
Christopher Hyer, 
Lyman E. Miller, 
William R. Miller, 
W. W. Milliman, 
C. Palmatier, 
Horace A. Post, 
John Shear. 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



263 



William Henry Ames, 
Thomas Andrews, 
Thomas Barney, 
David W. Barry, 
General George S. Batchel- 

ler,> 
Commander Oliver H. Bat- 

cheller. U.S.N.,-^ 
Preserved A. Benson, 
Wesson Benson,* 
George W. Bidwell, 
David L. Bowman, 
Amos O. Brown, 
Calvin Brown, 
Daniel W. Barney, 
Amos Burk, 
Carmi Belts, 
John Booth, 
Daniel Cady, 
Timothy Cady,* 
John G. Casey, 
Lorin Cole,* 
William T. Conkling,* 
Charles D. Cozens, 
Addison L. Davenport,* 
John S. Dean, 
Asa Deming, 
Asa Deming, 

Deming,* 

Ezekiel Deming, 
Horace Deming, 
John H. Deming, 
Mansfield A. Deming,* 
Simeon Deming, 
James B. Douglas,* 
Anson J. Downing, 



Edinburgh. 

George T. Downing, 
Morris J Dryman,* 
William Dullard, 
George M. Evans, 

Flack,* 

George Fox, 
John Freeman, 
Leman Frost, 
Otis Frost, 
John G. (xraves,* 
Julian W. Graves, 
William Graves,* 
William Greenfield, 
Abner Hall, 
William B. Hall, 
Emery W. Hosley,* 
George L. Hayden,* 
Charles D. Herrick, 
Joseph M. Herrick, 
William Douglass Herrick, 
Charles J. Houghtaling, 
John H. Hulburt, 
George W. Hutchinson, 
Charles W. Jenkins, 
William H. Jenkins,* 
Nicholas Jensser,* 
David W. Jones,* 
Willard Jones.* 
George B. King. 
John S. King, 
Samuel W. King, 
Warren E. Kinney, 
Charles W. Knight, 
Jesse Lewis, 
William H. Lewis, 
James Lockwood, 



Jesse Low, 
David E. Lyon, 
Louis Mackay, 
Henry C. McCuen, 
James McLean, 
Jonas McLean, 
Jesse Moore, 
Franklin Mornll, 
Edward Mott, 
Levi Myers, 
John H. Noyes, 
Newton S. Noyes, 
Charles A. Perkins, 
Henry P. Perry, 
Franklin Priest, 
George R. Priest, 
Peter S. Putnam, 
Edwin C. Resseguie, 
Henry Rhodes, 
Samuel Rhodes, 
William Rhodes, 
Francis Rice, 
Michael Rice, 
John Ross, 
Hayden Shew, 
Mahlon Robinson, 
Amasa D. Shippey, 
Robert P. Smith, 
Joseph H. Snow, 
George Steele, 
Lyman Steele,* 
William F. Stewart,* 
James Tabor, 
Foster Taylor, 
Charles E. Thorn, 
-Smith Travis, 



Oi 



' George S. Batcheller was lieutenant-colonel of the One Hundred and Fifteenth New York 
Volunteers; was afterward made inspector-general of New York State, and later was appointed 
a judge in the International Court at Cairo, Egypt. He has also served several terms in the 
New York State Assembly, has been United States minister to Portugal, and assistant-treasurer 
of the United States, and is now serving his second term as judge of the International Court at 
Cairo. 

■ Oliver H. Batcheller was graduated from the United States Naval academy at Annapolis, 
Md., and became a lieutenant in the navy. He served with Farragut at Mobile and Port Hudson, 
was promoted to be lievitenant-commander, and later was put in command of the Navy yard at 
Charlestown, Mass. 



364 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



James Varney, 
Russell Varney, 
Thomas J. Wheaton, 
John H. Whitaker,* 
Henry W. Whitaker, 



Charles D. Atkinson, 
Philip J. Austin, 
Charles Atkins, 
Chauncey L. Beebe, 
Charles C. Clark, 
Charles S. Dunham, 
Albert Dunning, 



Frederick W. Andrews,' 
Horace Ballou, 
Aaron Bratt,* 
Timothy Brewer, 
Archibald E. Brooks,* 
George Brooks, 
Francis Brower, 
David T. Burnham, 
Daniel Cady, 
Henry W. Cass, 
Charles Chapman, 
Asa J. Clothier, 
J. S. Clothier, 
William M. Clothier, 
Dwight Combs, 
Justin Combs,* 
Charles Davis,* 
R. PI. Densmore, 
S. T. Densmore,* 
Peter Deuel,* 
Elijah Earls, 
James Early, 
Luther Frazier,* 
Truman Gray, 



William H. Austin, 
Joseph W. Abiel, 
Thomas II. Adock, 
Isaac Bemus, 



Myron White,* 
Wing A. White, 
Frank Whitney, 
Hartwell H. Whitney,* 
John H. Wickus,* 

Malta. 

George D. Fish, 
Erastus H. Harder, 
William H. Kane, 
Charles W. Miller, 
W^illiam McCarty, 
Abner Mosher, 
Edward Olmstead, 
Joseph Pairer, 

Corinth. 

Byron Guiles, 
Samuel Guiles,* 
Harmon Hagadorn, 
John Haggerty, 
Ambrose C. Hickok. 
Solomon Hickok,* 
Daniel B. Ide, 
Gilbert C. Ide, 
Havillah J. Loop, 
F. La Pierre, 
George B. Lyon, 
William P. Lyon, 
Henry W. Mallerv, 
Levi Manning, 
Hugh McCouchie, 
Joseph McCouchie,* 
John Merritt, 
J. I. Monroe, 
William H. Monroe, 
Frederick Parkman, 
George Place, 
Isaac Plue,* 
John Redmond. 
Philip Rice,* 

NORTHUMBKRI.AND. 

Edward Brady, 
James C. Brisbin, 
Lewis A. Burdick, 
John Brainerd, 



Paul R. Williams, 
John Wood, 
Norman B. Wood, 
Theodore Worden. 



William H. Rose, 
George D. Story, 
Eugene Shears, 
John Stewart, 
Sidney Smith, 
Michael Van Horn,* 
George W. Vail. 



John St. John, 
Darius Schofield, M. D., 
Chauncey Searls, 
Augustus Sherman, 
Ale.xander Showers, 
Joseph H. Showers,* 
Thomas Smith, 
Joel Taylor, 
James Turner, 
Reuben Varney, 
Alexander Walker,* 
David L. Walker, 
Epaphroditas Walker, 
Romaine Walker, 
Lloyd Wesson,* 
Benjamin Wheaton, 
Emory J. White, 
Myron W. Wilcox, 
Hamilton B. Woodcock 
Henry J. Woodcock, 
Hiram Woodcock,* 
Jesse F. Wood, 
William Woodward,* 
Uriah Young.* 



John P. Burns, 
George H. Brown, 
James Burns, 
James Baths,* 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



265 



Frederick Bocher, 
John Burke, 
John A. Chase, 
John Case, 
James H. Carr, 
Rodolphus Cook, 
John Conners, 
John C. Coon, 
Sumner S. Clark, 
Joseph Carney, 
William CoiBnger, 
Alfred Chase,* 

■ Debois,* 

John Donnelly,* 
Henry J. Davis,* 
George H. Ellison, 
William Ellett, 
William T. Fuller, 
Thomas S. FulJer, 
Walter Gifford, 
David Galusha, 
Charles Goodwin. 
Edward Gawner, 
James Galusha, 
James K. Galusha, 
George M. Galusha,* 
James Harrington, 
John Horrigan,* 
James Hays, 
Thomas Hackett, 
Joseph M. Hays. 
Henry Hurd, 
Philip Harder, 
George Hauner, 
Frank Hall,* 
Charles Juba, 
Patrick Keney, 
Franklin Kirkham, 

Warren Baker, 
Aniasa Bartlett,* 
Charles Blackwood, 
George N. Blackwood, 
William Blackwood,* 
Edward Blower, 
John Brown,* 
Joseph Campbell,* 



George D. Lovejoy, 
Charles Leack,* 
Francis Leack, 
William Limber, 
Octavius Landon, 
Amos Laduke, 
Leander Laduke, 
Michael Labare, 
David Laraw, 
Abraham Y. Lansing, 
Ambrose McOdock, 
Victor Matott,* 
James McLane, 
Charles W. Mott, 
Hugh McMann, 
Peter Murphy, 
Ambrose Matott,* 
Timothy Madigan, 
Joseph Merchant, 
William McCartey, 
Edward Moran, 
Thomas Money, 
Henry M. Moody,* 
William H. McLane, 
Samuel McGown, 
Jacob Newman, 
Closes Newell, 
Thomas Newalk, 
Taylor L Newell, 
George S. Orr, 
John L. Osborne. 
Aaron H. Osborne, 
Hiram A. Perkins, 
Charles E. Phillips,* 
George H. Pearsall, 
John W. Palrtier, 
Daniel Peck, 

Hadley. 
Dennis Costello, 
William Dingraau,* 
John W. Dubois,* 
Samuel Ellis, 
Elam Evans,* 
George Evans,* 
Samuel Evans, 
John J. Flanders, 



Joseph Pepo, 
Reuben E. Robinson, 
Daniel Reardon, 
Harper N. Rogers, 
John Robinson,* 
Calvin A. Rice, 
James Shaw, 
James G. Scott, 
Alvin Smith, 
Sanford Shearer, 
Samuel A. Shaver, 
Joseph Smith, 
Washington Sherman,* 
James Shurter,* 
Patrick Savage, 
James M. Terhune, 
Loren M. Toms,* 
Reuben K. Thompson, 
Patrick Toumey, 
James H. Terhune, 
William Vanduzen. 
Charles Van Kleeck,* 
Taylor Vandewerker, 
Sidney Vandenburg, 
James Van Wagner,* 
Lewis W. Vandenburg,* 
James P. Vandewerker,- 
James C. Vandenburg,* 
Lyman Vandenburg, 
Dennison J. Willard, 
Isaac H. Wilson, 
Shallum West, 
W^illiam Wildy, 
John P. Winney, 
Henry W'ilder, 
Patrick Welch, 
Charles Wheeler.* 



Jonathan Flanders, 
John Gilbert, 
Briggs Gray, 
George Harrington,* 
Eugene Holland, 
John Holland, 
Charles Jeffers, 
RoUin Jenkins, 



266 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



Joel J. Loveless, 
Willicam Mahar, 

Waloney,* 

John McCormick, 
Zabin Mills,* 
William Newton,* 
Charles H. Palmer,* 
Mandelbert J. Palmer, 
William H. Palmer, 
John Peart, 
Joseph Reed, 
Frank Rice,* 
Wade Rice, 



Michael Ahr, 
Henry H. Barker, 
Albert M. Burroughs, 
Walter D. Barnes,* 
Charles Brice,* 
Thomas E. Brice, 
George Burnham, 
Frank Breese, 
James C. Brisbin, 
Joel Brown, 
William H. Bennett, 
Charles H. Brodie, 
Walter Brodie, 
George W. Campbell, 
Luther Church, 
Charles Cutler, 
Reed Church, 
Patrick Callan, 
John Callan, 
C. M. Cool, 
Patrick Conoly, 
Asa J. Clothier, 
Walter Dwyer,* 
Ransom O. Dwyer,* 
Abraham L. Davis, 
Stephen Decker,* 
Joseph Dorvee, 
George De Long, 
Henry H. Day, 
William Dorvee, 
John Davis, 
Philip Donahue, 



Joseph Ross, 
Samuel Ross, 
Edwin Ruthven, 

Saulsbury,* 

Wesley Scovill, 
Edward Sherman, 
Zabin Shippey, 
Irving Simpson, 
Charles Stewart, 
Daniel A. Stewart, 
Truman B. Stewart, 
Walter Sutliff, 

MOREAU. 

Alonzo Ensign 
David Ellison, 
A. Ellison, 
James Ellison, 
Danford Edmonds, 
Danford Edmonds 3d, 
Tobias Fralenburgh, 
Henry G. Gurney, 
Enoch Gurney, 
Truman Gilbert, 
Frederick Gleesattle, 
John W. Hilton, 
John Hilton,* 
Timothy Hodges, 
George E. Hutchins, 
Lewis Hamlin, 
James Brisbin, 
Clark Hawley, 
William Higgins, 
Richard Isby,* 
Joseph Jump, 
Sylvester Jacobus,* 
Samuel E. Kidd, 
Andrew J. Keys, 
Franklin Kirkham, 
N. J. Latimore, 
Joseph La Rose, 
Samuel Malison,* 
Daniel Morse, 
Daniel E. Morse, 
Michael Mehan, 
Newton F. McOmber, 



Henry Townsend,* 
Cassius Varney,* 
Obadiah Varney,* 
Simeon Wait,* 
Michael Ward, 
Frederick Washburn, 
Henry Washburn, 
Ira Washburn,* 
Elbridge Wheelock,* 
William Wheelock, 
Ariel Loveless, 
Richard M. Sprague. 



William McNeil, 
Jeffrey Merrill, 
Henry Merrill, 
George Merrill, 
John McGinnis,* 
William McCormic, 
Tabor Newton, 
William T. Norris,* 
Henry C. Newton, 
Andrew Norraand, 
William Orton, 
Albert H. Ott, 
Morgan L. Purdy, 
George Purdy, 
Solomon H. Parks, 
Wallace Parks, 
Lawrence Palmer, 
George H. Putnam, 
Edward Pearson, 
George Ross. 
Joseph R. Rey, 
William Rising, 
James Reynolds, 
Reuben Robinson, 
Benjamin Robinson, 
Nathaniel Rice. 
Charles Sill, 
William Sweet,* 
Milton F. Sweet, 
Rowland Sherman, 
James M. Shurter,- 
Dudley E. See,* 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



S67 



George W. Smith, 
James Smith, 
Reuben Sherman,'* 
Levi Shaffer,* 
Jacob A. Sisson, 
George H. Skym, 
James C. Smith,* 
Ira Scott, 
George Sumner, 



Seneca Ackley, 
Henry Allen, 
James Armstrong, 
Lewis S. Bailey, 
Charles N. Baker, 
Henry Baker, 
Isaac Baker, 
Stephen F. Baker, 
Lester D. Bardwell, 
William Barlman, 
William Beardsley, 
Charles Bemus, 
Alfred Bender, 
Oliver Bennett, 
James Benson, 
George C. Bentley,* 
Henry Bentley, 
Washington P. Bentley, 
Andrew Benton, 
George Bishop, 
Silas E. Blowers, 
Frank L. Brewster, 
Charles Brown, 
John Brown, 
WiUard Brown, 
William J. Brown, 
John T. Bryant, 
James H. Burdick, 
Lewis A. Burdick, 
William H. Burdick. 



George Scott, 
Martin Snyder,* 
Franklin Smith, 
George Sleight.* 
George Storer. 
(ieorge C. Tucker, 
Jesse Thompson,* 
James C. Vandenburg,* 
Lyman Vandenburg, 

Greenfield. 

Jesse Burliugham, 
Charles Burpee, 
Frank Cady, 
John Cady, 
Oscar Cady, 
Alexander Campbell, 
Henry C. Campbell, 
Albert Carp, 
Truman Carpenter, 
Joel Carr,* 
Charles Chapman, 
Morgan H. Chrysler,' 
Wilbur M. Clark, 
Robert B. Conde, 
John Conklin, 
Otis Conklin, 
Joseph Conners, 
John Connery, 
Richard B. Coutant, 
Zina H. Cowles,* 
Jeremiah Coy, 
Zera Coy, 
Samuel S. Craig,* 
Enos Crandall,* 
Joseph Crandall, jr., 
Paul D. Crandall,* 
Commodore P. Curtis, 
Winslow J. Dake,* 
Darius S. Davis, 
Frederick O. Day, 



Elias Washburn, 
C. Frank Winship, 
James White, 
Lloyd Weston,* 
William H. Yattaw, 
John J. Yattaw, 
Christopher Yattaw, 
Robert Yattaw, 
Hiram Yattaw. 



Elijah Dean, jr., 
Sylvanus T. Densmore, 
Dennis Desmond, 
Edwin B. Deuel. 
James C. Deyoe, 
Andrew J. Dorman, 
James Dorley,* 
Andrew J. Dowen,* 
Ezra W. Drake, 
William H. Drake, 
Augustus Dunham, 
Charles S. Dunham, 
Hokum Dunham, 
Thomas Dunn, 
Stephen Eddy, 
Henry Elliott,* 
James Emperor,* 
George D. Ferris, 
Simeon E. Ford, 
John Gibbons, 
Andrew W. GifTord,* 
Allen S. Glenn, 
James D. Goodhue, 
Robert B. Goudie, 
Alonzo Green, 
Davis Green,* 
Oscar F. A. Green,* 
William Green,* 
William W. Green, 
Asa L. Gurney, 



' Colonel Chrysler, who entered the service as captain of Company G, Thirtieth New York 
Volunteers, enlisting May 7, 1861, was promoted to major March 11, 186S, and to lieutenant-colonel 
September '20, 186~. He was mustered out with his regiment June 24, 18(13, and soon after re-en- 
listed as colonel of the Second New York Veteran Cavalry. He wa.s severely wounded through 
the chest at Atchafalaya Bayou, La., July 28, 1864, and was soon after brevetted brigadier-gen- 
eral, and was mustered out of the United States service November 46, 1865. 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



George W. Gurney, 
George Hagamore, 
George Hanse, 
Clinton Harris, 
Ezra Harris, 
John S. Harris, 
John T. Hams, 
Lyman W. Harris,* 
Mark C. Harris, 
Morris Harris, 
George W. Hazard,* 
James H. Hazard, 
Hiram Hendrick, 
James Hendrick,* 
Herman Hermanghans, 
John Hill, 
John W. Hill,* 
Josiah Hill, 
Seth Hill, 
George H. Hodges, 
John G. Holsapple, 
David A. Hopkins, 
Nelson Hopkins,* 
Silas Hopkins, 
John J. Hindson, 
James H. Huested, 
Henry J. Hurd, 
Charles E. Ingerson, 
James H. Ireland,* 
Michael Jennings, 
George W. Johnson, 
Henry Jones, 
Henry F. Jones, 
John Jones, 
Lewis S. Jones,* 
Oliver Jones, 
Thomas J. Jones, 
William Jones, 
Leonard J. Jordan, 
William Jordan, 
John Kelly, 
Oscar Kemp, 
John Kennedy, 
Edward M. Kerriett, 
Jonas Kested, 
John Killiard, 
Benedict A. King, 



Isaac King, 
Herman Laner, 
David W. Langdon,* 
Charles Lee, 
Martin Leonard, 
Henry M. Lewis, 
Moses Lewis, 
Henry L. Lincoln, 
Sidney D. Lincoln,* 
Sigsmund Lockhart, 
Zebbee Lockwood, 
John Louther, 
Daniel W. Lovell, 
Henry Lynett, 
James S. Lyon, 
John Mack, 
Nicholas D. Maffett, 
Frank Mangin, 
Henry Marcellus, 
Hiram Marks, 
Andrew Martin, 
Harrison H. Mastin, 
Henry Mastin, 
Florence McCarty, 
George McCollum, 
John McCollum, 
Melvin McCreedy, 
George H. McLaughlin, 
David McNeil, jr.,* 
Charles Merritt,* 
Samuel C. Miller, 
David A. Millis, 
John Mitchell, 
Frank Mooney, 
Frederick A. Morehouse, 
Charles W. Mosher, 
David Mosher,* 
Eugene Mosher, 
Hiram Mosher, 
Lewis Mosher, 
Michael Mullin, 
Allen Munroe, 
John Nelson, 
Richard Newman, 
John O'Brien, 
Henry C. Old, 
Thomas Olson, 



Martin V. B. Ostrander, 
Cyrus R. Padelford, 
James S. Palmer,* 
William H. Palmer, 
Charles L. Parker,* 
William Parker, 
William B. Parker,* 
George N. Peacock, 
Andrew J. Peckham,* 
Abram F. Price,* 
James H. Rawling, 
Robert S. Remington, 
Edwin C. Rhodes, 
Daniel Rose, 
Jarvis W. Russell, 
John N. Rose, 
Lester Rose, 
Lewis H. Rose,* 
William A. Rose, 
Francis M. Rowland, 
Joseph G. Rowland, 
John S. St. John, 
William G. Sears, 
Frank Seeley, 
John Seeley,* 
John Thomas Seeley,* 
William J. Seeley,* 
Cyrus Shiffer, 
John H. Shaft, 
Thomas R. Skinner, 
William J. Snyder,* 
Gilman Spaulding, 
Arnold Spicer, 
Thomas Spaulding, 
Albert Standish,* 
(leorge W. Steele, 
John Stevens, 
Alfred Stewart. 
Norman Stuart, 
Charles I. Stoddard,* 
Charles S. Taylor,* 
James S. Taylor, 
William O. Taylor, 
Michael Tethers,* 
Thomas L. Thomas, 
Charles A. Thornton,* 
John Thornton, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



269 



John S. Tinney, 
Edmund B. Tourtellot, 
Truman M. Tourtellot,* 
Charles W. Townsend, 
Charles W. Trumble, 
Mark I. Trumble,* 
John Van Antwerp, 
Charles Van Petten, 
Edward Van Rensselaer, 
Benjamin Van Steenburg, 
Elbert J. Watson,* 
George Webb, 



Dudley G. Allen, 
John Beers, 
Elijah Bennett, 
Richard Bills, 
Rufus Black, 
Silas C. Blowers, 
Harmon Bovencanip,' 
Henry Bovencamp, 
Aaron Bradt,* 
John Bradt, 
Elnathan Bristol, 
Peter Butler,* 
Henry Clute,* 
James Colson, 
John H. Colson, 
John S. Colson, 
Byron Daniels,* 
James Daniels, 
Edwin Delong, 
Lafayette Delong, 
Andrew Deming, 
Edgar L. Deming, 
John Deming,* 
Gordon Dimick, 
George Dickerson, 
Joseph Ellison,* 
Elam F. Evans,* 



James N. Webb, 
John Webb,* 
Thomas H. Webb, 
James Webster. 
(Jeorge L. Wendell, 
Edwin E. West, 
Harvey L. Whipple, 
Henry Whitman. 
James H. Wickin, 
Daniel Williams, 
Henry E. Williams,* 

Day. 

Gilbert F. Edmond, 
Michael Flansburgli,* 
Julian Graves, 
Daniel Guiles, 
Irving W. Guiles, 
George Guiles, 
Rensselaer Havens, 
Charles Herrick, 
Thomas Hopkins, 
Wendell B. Howe,* 
William C. Howe. 
William A. Hunt, 
David Kinney, 
Jonathan Kinney, 
Abram R. Lawrence,' 
Philo Roswell Lawrence, 
C. F. Marcellus. 
John H. Mason, 
Edward Mattison, 
Zera H. Mattison, 
John Michaels, 
Rienzi Michaels,* 
Ambrose Milliman, 
Cutler Milliman, 
William Milliman. 
John McGuire, 
Zabm Mills,* 



Samuel Williams, 
William Williams, 
William N. Williams. 
Charles Willis, 
James H. Wilson, 
William G. Wing, 
Henry C. Wood, 
Frederick G. Woodward. 
William H. Wood, 
John E. Wood worth,* 
Henry Young. 



Abijah Ovitt,* 
Chauncey Palmer, 
Arunah Perry, 
George Pixley, 
James Pixley, 
William Pixley, 
Edwin Rhodes, 
John Ross, 
Charles Ryther, 
William Scott, 
Samuel B. Shepard, 
Dennis Springer,* 
John Stead,* 
Beecher Truax, 
Henry Truax, 
John W. Van Arnum. 
John Vanderhoof, 
Ransom Varney, 
Solomon Wheeler, 
Timothy White, 
Lonn Woodcock, 
Stephen Woodcock, 
George Woodworth, 
Charles A. Yates, 
Edgar F. Yates, 
William H. Zenstine. 



William Brown, 
Edward Bobenreath, 



Wilton. 

Andrew Brisbin, 
Lorin Brisbin, 



John R. Burnham, 
William Baker, 



*Also served in the Florida war and the Mexican war. 



370 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



John Brainard, 
Richard Brewer, 
Claudius Baker, 
John Carr, 
Noah B. Clark, 
George Carr,* 
James Cannon, 
Seth W. Deyoe, 
James G. Deuel, 
Williarrt Dorvee, 
Michael Dovvling, 
Henry Deyoe,* 

Delong, 

Alfred Dran, 
John Deyoe, 
Peter A. Deyoe, 
William H. Deyoe,' 
Mynard C. Deyoe, 
Lewis Deyoe, 
James Ellison, 
Winsor B. French, 
Charles H. Fodow, 
Walton French, 
Luke Folmsbee, 
Walter Freeman, 
Dorson Falloon, 
Thomas Farrell, 
Henry N. Gilbert, 
Jesse Gower, 
George Green, 



Albert Gruber, 
Edgar Hain, 
Alonzo J. Hubble,* 
John J. Hudson, 
Isaac S. Hodges, 
Miles Hudson, 
Otis T. Hall, 
Charles Holden, 
Solomon Holden,* 
William Harvey, 
Aaron Irish, 
Aftus H. Jewell, 
Sidney B. King, 
George Lawson,* 
Edwin A. Lockwood, 
Antoine Lapoint, 
Alexander Lamara, 
Henry Laroy, 
Edwin McPherson, 
Henry M. Myers, 
Charles Munn, 
Hanford Myres, 
Cornelius Myres, 
David McNeil, 
Ira McNeil, 
William Miller,* 
John McGovern, 
Joseph Martin, 
Stephen Nisbeth,* 
William E. Newton, 



John S. Nobles, 
Robert Price, 
Frederick N. Perkins,* 
Harmon E. Perry, 
Robert Pryor, 
John Powers, 
Arthur Perry, 
Harlaem E. Potter, 
Gardner Perry, 
James A. Padelford, 
Harvey A. Reed, 
John H. Reynolds, 
Charles H. Ruggles,* 
John H. Rose, 
Warren L. Smith,* 
Alfred M. See,* 
Daniel Steenburgh, 
Isaac W. Souls, 
Peter Schermerhorn, 
Hiram Tyrell,* 
William Taylor, jr.,* 
George Van Antwerp,* 
Stephen O. Viele,* 
Lewis T. Vanderwerker 
George H. Wildey, 
Richard B. Wood, 
Lloyd Weston, 
Henry Weatherwax, 
Elias Washburn, 
Eugene M. Warner. 



Samuel Allen, 
John Anderson, 
Peter Butler, 
Jeremiah Baldry, 
Joseph P. Bowers, 
Samuel S. Butler, 
William Butler, 
Anthony S. Badgely, 
Martin V. B. Billings, 
David Borst, 
David Barker, 
John Barker, 
Henry Clark, 
John Cudahy, 



Clifton Park. 

Abram Clark, 
Albert Carnall, 
Van Rensselaer Couklin, 
Ransom Conklin, 
Levi Clapper, 
Sidney T. Cornell, 
George W. Cornell.* 
Jacob H. Clute, jr., 
Charles H. De GrafT, 
Robert De Graff. 
George Davis, 
Levi De Graff, 
Edward H. Dater,* 
David H. Dater, 



William H. Evarts, 
Edward Evans, 
WiKiam Filkins, 
John Fisher, 
Peter Friel, 
George Gregory, 
Wesley Heyner, 
James Haley, 
Thomas R. Holland, 
William H. Haylock, 
James Johnson, 
Albert Jones, 
John Jones, 
Lymau Johns, 



THOSE WHO FOUGHT. 



271 



Christian C. Kellogg, 
John Kelley, 
John H. Lapius, 
Michael Lamey, 
Andrew S. McEchron, 
Christopher Mulligan, 
Robert McPherson, 
Matthew Mulligan, 
John Mulligan, 



Benjamin Northrup, 
Henry C. Peterson, 
William D. Peterson, 
James Roach. 
Reuben Stokam, 
Lewis Shouts, 
Peter B. Simmons, 
John Simmons, 
William Van Saulsbury, 



Orlando Swartwout, 
William H. Shouts, 
Andrew Stewart, 
Jeremiah Stebbins, 
William Taylor, 
William D. Town, 
Christian Walker, 
Alexander H. Wicks. 



James Allen, * 
Joseph Armer, 
James F. Austin, 
Eli Bailey, 
John G. Baker, 
James C. Barber, 
David S. Barker, 
Ira J. Barker, 
William W. Barton, 
Wilson Barton,* 
Arnold Bates, 
Austin Bates, 
Charles H. Bates, 
Dennis Bates, 
George Beeman, 
James H. Bell, 
James C. Benson, 
Asa C. Bentley, jr., 
George H. Bentley, 
Gilbert Bentley, 
Hector Bentley, 
John H. Bentley, 
Joseph J. Bentley, 
Nathaniel S. Bentley, 
William A. Bentley, 
Charles Betts, 
Francis C. Betts, 
Wilhelm Bink, 
Charles A. Briggs,* 
Noah D. Bronson,* 
Eli Brooks, 
James B. Brooks,* 
Uriah C. Buck, 
Norris Burfit, 
John Burns, 



Providenxe. 

Nelson W. Cadman,* 
Seth Cadman, 
William B. Carpenter,* 
John W. Clark,* 
Henry Clunis, 
John M. Clute, 
Simon Cohen, 
Arnold Cole, 
Charles Cole.* 
James W. Cole, 
William Cole,* 
William B. Collins, 
Charles Colony,* 
James S. Colony,* 
George Colony,* 
Edward J. Colony,* 
John H. Cook, 
Thomas Cooper, 
William H. Cornell,* 
John Costello, 
Michael Costello, 
Thomas Cunning, 
John L. Dalton, 
Robert Dawson, 
Charles E. Duel, 
Thomas Donahue, 
Edward Dumphrey, 
Mason Delano.* 
Waldron G. Evans, 
William George Evans, 
William W. Finch, 
John Flanagan, 
Timothy Foley, 
William M. Fowler, 
James French, 



Henry Frey, 
Levi Garwood, 
Edward H. Gates, 
Elbridge Gates.* 
Hiram Giflford.* 
Russell W. H. Gifford, 
Irving Green.* 
Chauncey Hagadorn, 
H. Seymour Hall, 
Michael Harrigan. 
Benjamin E. Harrison. 
Edward Hayes, 
Alfred Hickok, 
Ferdinand Hoffman, 
John Holland. 
Joseph W. Honeywell,* 
James H. Jeffords,* 
Orville F. Jeffords,* 
Samuel King, 
Edward Laporte, 
Peter Lasher,* 
Addison Like, 
Stephen Marihew,* 
Thomas McCormick, 
Terence McGovern, 
Thomas McGovern, 
James McMahon, 
Michael McWilliams,* 
Philip Mead, 
Michael Miller, 
Thomas Mina, 
A. N. Morgan. 
J. Morgan. 
Ephraim D. Mosher. 
Lewis Mundell, 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



John Nadew, 
Elijah Olmstead,* 
Jacob H. Olmstead, 
Edward Orry, 
George Packer, 
Richard Parker, 
William W. Pease, 
Benjamin Perry,* 
John A. Pettit, 
William A. Pulling, 
William Reed, 
Larry C. Rice, 



Edmund Ricketson,* 
Joseph H. Rogers, 
Robert Russell, 
George S. Schermerhorn,-'' 
Daniel C. Sherman,* 
Jethro P. Sherman, 
Philo D. Sherman, 
Solomon Sherman, 
William H. Sism, 
Alonzo P. Slocum, 
James A. Slocum, 



Peter Smith, 
William W. Smith, 
David Sowl, jr., 
Francis Sowl, 
John Sparks, 
Henry H. Tabor, 
P. D. Thompson, 
Alonzo P. Van Epps, 
Levi Whistler, 
William J. Woolsey,* 
Daniel Wylie. 



CHAPTER XIII. 



The Latter Years of the County's History, and the Causes of Its Prosperity Since 
the Days of the Civil War— The Development of the Older Industries and the 
Establishment of New Ones — The Manufacturing Centres — New Churches — Growth 
of the Educational System — Newspapers, Past and Present — Financial Institutions 
— Some of the Leading Public Institutions — Clubs, Societies, etc. — Centennial Cele- 
brations of 1870 and 1877— Anniversaries of the Battle of Bemus Heights and the 
Surrender of General Burgoyne — The Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument at Ballston 
Spa— Death of General V. S. Grant — Other Happenings of Interest. 

To write anything more than a brief outline of the development of 
the various industries of the county of Saratoga since the period of the 
Civil war, with the many and varied changes in its large number of in- 
stitutions — educational, religious, eleemosynary, philanthropic, com- 
mercial — would require a vast amount of space and many years of hard 
labor in its compilation and publication. It is doubtful if the public 
interest in such an undertaking would be sufficient to warrant the un- 
dertaking. In the succeeding pages we shall endeavor to trace, in out- 
line, the history of the county as a whole, illustrating its growth along 
the lines and omitting, as far as possible, the minor details of an unes- 
sential character. Of the numerous manufacturing industries of the 
various communities of the county, brief historical sketches of the most 
important appear. No effort has been made to go into details regard- 
ing all the industrial enterprises of the county, the aim of the author 
being simply to preserve, for future generations, such data as will best 
serve to illustrate the building which has been erected on the founda- 



1861-1898— MANUFACTURES. 273 

tion laid by the forefathers — not to inspect every timber which has 
entered into the industrial, educational, social and political fabric of 
which it is composed, but to paint, in epitome, the various steps taken 
toward the upbuilding of the still unfinished structure. 

The beginning of the war of the Rebellion, the most awful civil war 
in the history of modern nations, found the county of Saratoga mak- 
ing rapid strides in all directions. New manufactures were springing up 
everywhere. Capital was being invested with lavish hands in a score 
or more of communities in all sections of the county. The water 
power on the Hudson was being still more carefully harnessed for the 
service of mankind ; the agrarian communities — which ever have dom- 
inated the county — were beginning to realize, more than ever, the 
value of improved transportation facilities, growing markets and good 
prices ; the summer resorts in the county were reaping splendid har- 
vests, and many other things were contributing to add to the wealth 
and general prosperity. But the existence of a fierce internal war was 
most disheartening, and all industry suffered a severe check. The up- 
building of most of the enterprises which have made the county 
famous in modern years has occurred since the war, with the single ex- 
ception of the paper manufacturing industry; and even in this de- 
partment it was not until some time after the close of the war that 
great industrial strides were made, with a single exception, which is 
noted later on. 

MANUFACTURES. 

The industrial centres of Saratoga count)- are Ballston vSpa, Mechan- 
icville and Stillwater, Waterford, .Schuylerville, Saratoga, and South 
Glens Falls. For many years one of the principal industries of the 
county has been the manufacture of paper. Until recent years the 
various mills in the county manufactured the coarser grades of paper, 
such as manilla and news paper; but in recent years the finer grades 
of writing paper have also been turned out in immense quantities. 
Probably no community of equal size or population in the country is 
so widely noted for paper manufacture as Saratoga county and the 
section adjoining it to the north and northeast. Hon. George West of 
Ballston Spa is at the head of a concern which in itself owns and oper- 
ates eleven mills, which are situated on the banks of the Kayaderos- 
seras creek. 

Mr. West came to Ballston Spa in 1861. Having learned the best 

18 



274 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

processes for the manufacture of paper, he entered the employ of C. S. 
Buchanan, proprietor of the paper mills at Rock City Falls. A year 
later, in June, 1862, with a capital of only about $3,000, he purchased 
the Empire paper mills at Rock City Falls. From the start his success 
was pronounced, for the paper he made was of a very superior quality 
and the demand for it was heavy. Soon he was compelled to increase 
his facilities. In 1866 he built the Excelsior mills and dam at Rock 
City Falls, and about the same time became a partner in the purchase 
of the Angell paper mills at Waterford. In 1870 he retired from the 
management of these mills in order to devote his entire attention to his 
properties in Saratoga county. The same year he bought the mills at 
or near Middle Grove, rebuilt them, and at once purchased the Pioneer 
mill at West Milton. But so rapid was the increase in the demand for 
his paper that in 1874 he found it expedient to purchase the Eagle mill, 
. located two miles above Ballston Spa. The following year he bought 
the Island mill in Ballston Spa, formerly owned and operated by Jonas 
A. Hovey as a cotton mill. These three buildings were immediately 
converted into a paper mill. About the same time he purchased the 
cotton mill known as the Union mill and the woolen mill near it, both 
of which were soon devoted to the manufacture of paper, paper bags 
being manufactured in the old woolen mill. For many years Mr. West 
manufactured manilla paper exclusively. All his mills are located on 
the banks of the Kayaderosseras creek. He is reputed to be the heavi- 
est individual paper manufacturer in the United vStates. 

The tannery of Haight & Co. at Ballston Spa is one of ihe most im- 
portant industries of Saratoga county and one of the largest tanneries 
in the country. This industry was established at Milton Centre about 
1830 by Seth Rugg. It was subsequently owned by Mr. Morey, then 
by Jacob Adams, who sold it to Samuel Haight. Mr. Haight greatly 
increased the business and in 1882 moved it to its present location in 
the village of Ballston Spa. For several years Matthew Vassar was in 
partnership with Mr. Haight, up to the time of the death of the latter, 
October 6, 1891. The firm is now composed of Matthew Vassar, H. 
Vassar Haight and Theodore S. Haight, the two latter being the sons 
of the late Samuel Haight. The tannery operated by them employs 
about 300 men, and contributes immensely to the prosperity of the 
community. 

The National mill at Ballston Spa, which manufactures manilla box 
board, and produces about nine and a quarter tons per day, was pur- 



1861-1898— MANUFACTURES. 275 

chased in the spring of 1893 by the National Folding Box and Paper 
company of Hartford, Conn. Many improvements have been made 
.since that time, including a new dam constructed in 1895 at a cost of 
$8,000. The mill was formerly known as the Idlewild mill It was at 
first owned and operated by John McLean, then by John McLean and 
Harvey J. Donaldson, and later by Mr. Donaldson and Harvey M. 
Geer. 

While Mr. West was investing so heavily in paper mills others were 
establishing paper mills and other industries in various parts of the 
county, though on a smaller scale. In 1865 Thomas Brown, of Niagara 
Falls, who six years before had purchased the old woolen mills at Coi'- 
inth, and established an edge-tool factory, built a large woolen mill 
there, which began operations in 18GG. This mill was run by him for 
over three years. On the evening of November 7, 1869, Mr. Brown 
was mistaken for a burglar or incendiary by his night watchman, 
while coming from his mill, and shot, his death occurring a few 
moments later. The factory was burned in 1870, but was soon rebuilt 
a short distance south of the original site. Until 1874 it was operated 
as a woolen mill, but in the latter year it was purchased by the Hudson 
River Pulp and Paper company and used by that concern for a store- 
house. 

The latter corporation began operations in a large new mill Septem- 
ber 1, 1869, at first manufacturing wood pulp. The year following it 
bought the old edge-tool factory and began in it the manufacture of 
printing paper. In 1872, the demand for its product increasing, a new 
mill for the manufacture of the finer qualities of printing paper was 
erected, and began running in May, 1873. In April, 1877, the large 
mill was burned by spontaneous combustion, but soon after rebuilt. 

The tannery at Corinth built in 1855 by Powell & Co. was burned in 
August, 187-t, but was immediately rebuilt by Rugg & Co. of Schnec- 
tady. About 1875 Morgan L. Prentiss began the manufacture of bolts 
and nuts and other carriage iron in the building which originally was 
built by Washington Chapman, in 1805, for a woolen factory. 

At South Glens Falls the Morgan Lumber company operated four 
large lumber mills as early as twenty years ago. In connection with 
this industry this corporation also began, about the same time, the 
operation of a planing mill and a box factory. The Glens Falls Paper 
company, which began business at this point neary a quarter of a cen- 
tury since, has become one of the most extensive manufacturers of 



276 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

paper in the country. In 1872 Reynolds, Dix & Co. began working a 
large marble and stone quarry, sending the surplus limestone to lime 
kilns. Stone works had been established there as early as 1836 by 
Julius H. Rice. 

In 1863 Henry Poor & .Son of Boston purchased the Lynwood tan- 
nery at Conklingville, which was established in 1848 by Gurdon Conk- 
ling. The new proprietors, possessed of abundant capital, made 
numerous improvements and increased the facilities of the tannery 
until it became an enterprise of considerable importance. In 1872 
James L. Libby of New York established a paper-box factory at Conk 
lingville, employing from seventy to eighty hands. The wooden-ware 
works in this village, operated for many years by Benjamin R. Jen- 
kins, formerly of Batchellerville, who died in 1877, were established 
soon after the war, and from time to time their capacity was increased 
until, in recent years, they have become a mammoth enterprise, em- 
ploying more than a hundred hands. 

Lewis E. Smith of Mechanicville for many years had charge of the 
works of the American Linen Thread company of that village, begin- 
ning with 1853. The company manufactured all kinds of sewing and 
machine threads, and employed from one hundred and fifty to two 
hundred hands. 

Mechanicville's manufactures are mostly of modern growth. The 
immense plant of the Duncan company, established in 1888, located on 
the banks of the Hudson river, just north of the village, in the town of 
Stillwater, is one of the most important industries of its kind in the 
country. It owns besides its mammoth mill, a large and finely con- 
structed dam in the Hudson, which furnishes most of its power. 

South of the village is located the extensive power house of the Hud- 
son Power and Transmission company, incorporated in 1896. This 
plant, including a fine dam across the Hudson, was completed in 1898. 
The building is supplied with generators, operated by water power, 
which develop electricity and transmit it by means of many wires to 
the works of the General Electric company at Schenectady. 

Among the other manufacturing concerns in Mechanicville, many of 
which have been established within the last decade, are the knitting 
mills of W. B. Neilson, Mechanicville Knitting company. Sagamore 
Knitting company; the shoddy mill of Cunningham Bros. & Whitbeck; 
the sash, door and blind mills of Barnes & La Dow and J. B. Orcutt & 
Son; the plant of the Fiberite company; the Mechanicville brewery; 
John Smith's machine shop, and the foundry of Longstaff & Son. 




BENJAMIN R. JENKINS. 



1861-18y8— MANUFACTURES. 277 

The G. F. Harvey company, manufacturing chemists, of Saratoga 
Springs, though of modern establishment, has risen to a position of 
great prominence in the business world. This company was incorpo- 
rared May 13, 1800, by George F. Harvey, S. A. Rickard and Edgar 
T. Brackett, with a capital stock of $200,000. The stock was increased 
to $850,000 April 4, 1895, and upon its increased valuation the com- 
pany has paid an annual dividend of five per cent, each year. The 
present officers of the company are: S. A. Rickard, president; L. H. 
Cramer, vice-president and treasurer; James Mingay, secretary; E. T. 
Brackett, attorney. The business of the company extends over the 
entire United States, including the manufacturing branch at Mille 
Roches, Ont. It has sixty-six salesmen constantly traveling, who make 
dail}^ reports to the head office at Saratoga Springs, or those who travel 
in the Canadas to the branch house at Mille Roches. The company 
employs over one hundred hands at its factory, and as its entire busi- 
ness is conducted with customers out of town, all the money paid for 
help every Saturday (which amounts to nearly $1,000) is from funds 
brought in from outside. The company has over thirty thousand cus- 
tomers upon its books and its business is constantly increasing. It is 
the intention, within a very short time, to establish a western depot, 
not for the purpose of manufacturing, but for distributing goods to cus- 
tomers remote from the home ofifice. 

Stillwater's manufactures have made the place noted. The paper 
mill established in 1847, which has been referred to in a preceding 
chapter, was the first extensive industry at that point. It had not been 
in operation long before the splendid facilities at that point were no- 
ticed by capitalists and manufacturers elsewhere. About 1862 Gardner 
Howland & Sons built a large paper mill opposite Baker's lock. This 
was burned, but at once rebuilt, and the business continued on a larger 
scale than ever. In 1866 D. & W. Pemble established the straw-board 
mill there. In 1873 Newland & Dennison established a mill for the 
manufacture of knit underwear, and Ephraim Newlajid in the same 
year built a mill for the manufacture of hosiery and underwear. The 
water power in the Hudson at this point is utilized by nearly all the 
manufacturers in town, and is capable of still greater development. 

Waterford had become an important manufacturing centre long be- 
fore the war. Numerous changes have been made since that time, 
however. In 1864 Levi Dodge purchased the feed mill formerly owned 
by Henry Lape and converted it into a straw-board factory. This 



278 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

building, probably the oldest on the hydraulic canal, was originally 
used as a button factory, then as a barley mill, then a feed mill, and 
finally a card-board mill. The old mill was burned and a new one was 
erected in 1874, passing into the hands of the Saratoga County bank of 
Waterford, and being operated by Edwards & Younglove. In 1S64 E. 
Van Kleeck began the manufacture of brushes, but the business was 
removed to Lansingburgh a few years later. In 1870 Holroyd, Safely 
& Dowd remodeled the old flouring mill of T. M. Vail & Sons and con- 
verted it into the Alaska knitting mill. In 1877 it passed into the con- 
trol of the Hudson Valley Knitting company. The Massasoil Knitting 
mills were erected in 1S7~ on the foundation of the old »Shatemuck 
flouring mills, and were placed under the management of E. G. Mun- 
son. The Mohawk & Hudson paper mill was established in 1872 by a 
stock company, but soon afterward was sold to Frank Gilbert of Troy, 
who still operates it, turning out large quantities of printing paper. 
The Waterford sawing mills, established in Cohoes in 1835, were re- 
moved to Waterford in 1872, when the plant was greatly increased in 
size. The Globe iron foundry was established in 1873 by Robert Pink- 
erton in a building formerly occupied by the Button Fire Engine com- 
pany. The Pilot knitting mill was started in 1875 by Van Schoonhoven 
& Co. 

The Eureka knitting mills were established in 1881 by John W. Ford 
and John H. Pynes, the latter succeeding to the sole control in 1891. 
The manufacturing facilities are comprised in a three-story brick build- 
ing, covering an area one hundred and fifty feet square. 

The Waterford Knitting company was incorporated in 1885 with a 
capital stock of $50,000. The officers are: President and treasurer, 
Thomas Breslin; vice-president, Charles L. Mitchell; secretary, C. C. 
Ormsby; superintendent, Michael Organ. The mill is a four story 
brick building eighty by one hundred and twenty feet in dimensions. 

The Bishopton knitting mill was established in 1886. It is owned by 
L. Kavanaugh and managed by C. H. Kavanaugh. 

The Kavanaugh Knitting company's mill was erected in 1891. It is 
a handsome three-story brick structure, having a large square tower on 
the front elevation. 

The paper-box manufactory of vSidney D. Sault was established in 
1893 at Cohoes but soon afterward removed to Waterford, where the 
proprietor now has a finely equipped plant. 

The Clyde Knitting company is the successor to the Meeker, Spotten 



1861-1898— MANUFACTURES. 279 

& Meeker compaay, which was organized in 1892 with John H. Meeker 
as president and James H. Spotten as treasurer. This concern failed in 
189G, and in November of that year the mill was sold to the Clyde 
Knitting company, which occupies the same building. The latter com- 
pany is officered as follows: President, Thomas BresHn; vice-president, 
Samuel Bolton, jr.; secretary, James H. Shine; treasurer, John H. 
Pynes. 

The Clover Knitting company is the successor to the Hudson Valley 
Knitting company. The latter company failed, and in the summer of 
1897, after the mill had been idle for about a year and a half, the Clover 
Knitting company began operating it. The officers of the latter com- 
pany are: President, Peter McCarthy; vice president, Thomas Breslin; 
treasurer, John H. Pynes ; secretary, Robert E. Stover; superintendent, 
G. M. Langner. 

The Ormsby Textile company was incorporated in 1893 and began 
operations in 1895 in a large new mill located on King's canal. This 
mill is a four-story and attic building, constructed on the slow-burning 
principle. The officers of the company are: President, Thomas Bres- 
lin ; vice-president, Charles L. Mitchell; secretary, Michael Organ; 
treasurer, Charles C. Ormsby. 

The plant of the Eddy Valve company comprises a group of sub- 
stantial brick buildings, and its products comprise a general line of 
valves from half an inch to 5G inches in diameter. In addition to the 
company's own plant its management also controls the operations of 
the Mohawk & Hudson Manufacturing company of Waterford, iron and 
and brass founders. The officers of the company are: President, 
John Kinckerbacker; vice-president, H. C. Rogers; treasurer, T. A. 
Knickerbacker. 

Schuylerville has also been, for many years, one of the leading in- 
dustrial centres of Saratoga county. Its early enterprises have been 
referred to in the preceding pages. One of the many resources from 
which the village derives a benefit is the paper mill. This industry 
was established in 1863-1864 by D. A. Bullard & Co. as the "Schuyler 
paper mill." In 1870 Mr. Bullard purchased the interests held by his 
partners and introduced his sons into the business. 

From time to time during this period industries of various kinds were 
established at other points in the county, but those mentioned were the 
most important. While the commercial interests of the community 
were being cared for, the inhabitants were not unmindful of the men- 



280 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tal and spiritual welfare of the rising generation, as is illustrated by 
the increase in the number of religious institutions, the establishment 
of new schools and the great improvement of the old ones. 

CHURCHES. 

Several new churches were organized during this period in Saratoga 
Springs. March 8, 1865, witnessed the founding of the First Congre- 
gational church at Saratoga Springs. Rev. E. N. Sawtelle, D. D. , the 
first pastor of the church, was installed in April, 1865. The church 
edifice was not erected until 1868. Nearly all the original members 
were from the First Presbyterian church, and the first trustees of the 
new society were Dexter H. Knowlton, Lewis E. Whiting, Waldo M. 
Potter, Solon B. Bushnell, Hiram P. Trim, Abisha Bailey, Jacob Myers, 
Andrew Hall and Joseph A. Shoudy. 

In 1869 a number of members of the First Presbyterian church who 
resided at an inconvenient distance from their house of worship formed 
a new society, which subsequently became the Second Presbyterian 
church. August 31 of that year the corner stone of their chapel was 
laid by Rev. Dr. John Woodbridge, then pastor of the First Presby- 
terian church, and the edifice was dedicated by him January 30, 1870. 
Rev. James N. Crocker was at first placed in charge of the mission 
work. The church was not regularly organized until August, 1871, 
when John Newland, B. M. Fay and B. F. Edwards were installed as 
elders. August 28 Charles F. Dowd, George S. Batcheller, John New- 
land, Adam B. Smith, Alexander Bennett and Samuel H. Freeman 
were elected trustees. The church was received under the care of 
the Albany Presbytery October 10, and October a2 Rev. James N. 
Crocker was installed as the first pastor. 

The First Free Methodist church was organized October 2, 1865; the 
house of worship was built in 1869, and dedicated January 8, 1870, by 
Rev. B. T. Robert. The first pastor was Rev. A. B. Burdick, and the 
first trustees F. A. Town, Seneca Weed and Seth Grawberg." 

The African M. E. Zion church was organized in June, 1863, by Rev. 
J. Boler, who, with A. Freeman and J. Lewis, constituted the first board 
of trustees. The house of worship was dedicated in 1863 by Bishop 
William H. Bishop. In November, 1866, the building was destroyed 

* The pastors are as follows: Revs. A. B. Burdick, D. M. Sinclair, William (lould, James 
Odell, Harry Mathews, B. Winget, James Odell, O. W. Young, W. H. Clark, Almiron Smith, 
Zenas Osborne, M. D. McDougall, H. W. Fish, A B. Burdick, D. C. Johnson, Jl. N. Downing, W. 
H. Clark. 



18C1-1898— CHURCHES. 2S1 

by fire, but was rebuilt the following year and dedicated by Bishop J. 
J. Clinton. 

The Second Baptist church was organized as the Union Avenue Bap- 
tist Sunday school by members of the First Baptist church, February 

7, 187-4, after services had been held in various places for nine months. 
February 32, 1876, the society was duly organized as the Second Baptist 
church. Rev. Daniel Corey, the first pastor, began his labors in April 
following. 

The New England Congregational church of Saratoga Springs was 
organized March 1, 1880. The main part of the present house of wor- 
ship was erected that year, and the chapel in 1881. Rev. Thomas W. 
Jones served as pastor from 1880 to 1888; Rev. Clarence F. Swift from 
1888 to 1895; and the present pastor. Rev. William Orr Wark, began 
his labors in January, 1895. 

The Congregational Methodist church of Saratoga Springs was or- 
ganized September 30, 1896. The church edifice was commenced April 

8, 1897, and dedicated August 15, 1897. Its cost, including the lot, 
was $8,700. Rev. L. C. Pettit has been the pastor since the organiza- 
tion of the society. 

All the churches at Ballston Spa were erected before the war. In 
1876 a number of Spiritualists of that village erected Centennial hall, 
which for several years was devoted to services of that sect, but in 
recent years the building has been devoted to various purposes. 

The only church organized in the town of Halfmoon during this 
period was the M. E. church at Smithtown. In the town of Stillwater, 
the Presbyterian church at Ketchum's Corners was incorporated Jan- 
uary 22, 1866, when Tyler Dunham, Edward Moore and William Flag- 
ler were elected elders and John H. Brightman deacon. The house of 
worship was dedicated December 12, 1866, by Rev. A. M. Beveridge 
of Lansingburgh. Rev. William M. Johnson was the first pastor. 

Until 1874 the Catholics of Stillwater attended church at Mechanic- 
ville. In that year a separate society was formed at Stillwater, the old 
edifice of the Protestant Episcopal society was purchased and a society 
organized. 

The Episcopal church at East Line, in the town of Ballston, was 
established in 1876, under direction of the Rev. William Delafield, 
rector of Christ Episcopal church at Ballston Spa. Services have not 
been held there regularly for several years. 

In Corinth, the Free Methodist church at Jessup's Landing was or- 
ganized as a class in November, 1867. 



282 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

In the fall of 1868 Rev. C. T. V. Eastman, rector of the Church of 
the Redeemer at Northanvpton, Fulton county, organized St. John's 
J<>piscopal church at Conklingville. Thomas Gillespie and Samuel 
Kinnear were the first wardens, and James Parker, John Hall, sr., 
Thomas Evans and William W. Foulks the first vestrymen. The 
corner stone of the house of worship was laid by Bishop Doane of 
Albany September 17, 1870. 

The Methodist Episcopal church of Day Centre w»s formed as a class 
in October, 1865. The church was erected in the fall of 1868 and ded- 
icated the following winter. Rev. J. K. Wager was its first pastor. 

St. Paul's Catholic church at Rock City Falls was built early in 1873, 
and the society regularly organized and incorporated in July, 1874, by 
Rev. Father McMenomy, who attended it while residing at Saratoga 
Springs. The church was dedicated by Bishop McNierny, in Septem- 
ber, 1877. Rev. Father Smith, then Rev. Father Mullany, were the 
first pastors, the latter being the first resident priest. He was suc- 
ceeded in 1884 by Father Donahue, who attended Galway as a mission, 
and built the church there about 1884. Father McGeough of Ballston 
Spa bought the land where the present St. Mary's church in Galway 
now stands. In May, 1888, Father Quinn succeeded Father Donahue. 
Father Quinn established his residence at Galway, and Rock City Falls 
then became a mission to Galway. In October, 1897, Rev. Father 
Barrett of St. Mary's church, Troy, became pastor of the two churches. 

The Wilton Methodist Episcopal charge comprises the three churches 
of that denomination within the town — at South Wilton, Gurn Spring 
(formerly Kent), and Wilton (formerly Wiltonville). The house of 
worship at Wilton was built in 1860, during the pastorate of Rev. R. G. 
Adams. At Gurn Spring a church was erected in 1886 during the 
pastorate of Rev, Charles B. Lewis. The old " Union church " is now 
the property of the town and is used as a town hall. For many years 
the M. E. society at South Wilton has been quite strong. About 1888 
the interior of the church was entirely renewed at considerable expense, 
and during 1897-98, under the pastorate of Rev. William H. Edwards, 
it was repainted. The latter is the present pastor of these churches. 

A Methodist Episcopal church was built at Middle Grove, in the 
town of Greenfield, in 1888. The present pastor is Rev. George M. 
Moody. 



1861-1898- SCHOOLS. 283 

SCHOOLS. 

For yeans the youth of Saratoga county have enjoyed educational 
advantages unexcelled by those of any other community in the country. 
In preceding chapters reference is made to some of the earlier schools, 
as well as to some of those which attained a high standard even before 
the war, and )'et occupy a high position. The public school system of 
Waterford has attained a conspicuous position in comparatively recent 
years. The Waterford high school enjoys the distinction of having 
been the first in this State to have a military cadet corps. The com- 
pany is composed of fifty boys, ranging from fourteen to twenty years 
of age, with a fife and drum corps. Alexander Falconer, the present 
superintendent of schools, was elected to the position August 24, 1892, 
and during his incumbency of the office the schools have made rapid 
strides. 

The first record of a public school in Waterford is dated 182L It 
was held in Classic hall, now Knickerbocker hall, on First street. This 
building was erected in 1813. A. M. Steele vi^as the first principal of 
this school. He was succeeded by Xenophon Haywood, who remained 
until 183G. William W. Day followed and continued until 1850, when 
he retired. Upon retiring Mr. Day made a report which showed a 
registration of two hundred and thirty-two pupils in 1838, and himself 
to be the only teacher. The report also showed that six private schools 
existed in Waterford, including the academy, with two hundred and 
four students. 

The need of a more commodious school house became apparent, and 
in 1849 a new building was erected on the corner of Fourth and Divi- 
sion streets. The structure contained six rooms. At that time oppo- 
sition to the erection of the building was encountered, but through the 
efforts of Lysander Button and others the project was consummated. 
In 1854 a union free school system was organized. The first board of 
education consisted of: Charles Johnson, president; W. T. Seymour, 
James R. Blake, M. C. Powell, Daniel Murray, John Cramer 2d, John 
Higgins, Stephen Munson and J. M. King. 

After the establishment of the union free school system public school 
work increased in favor and a corps of teachers was employed, with 
Silas J. Pratt as principal of school 1, J. Weldron principal of school 
2 and Amanda Thorne principal of school 3. Professor George H. 
Stowits was principal from 1855 to 1859. Among the others who held 
the position of principal were: W, H. Bently, 1859-1861; John L. 



284 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Hill, 1861-18G2; I. S. Bothwell, 18G2-1864; C. G. Clark, 1804-1865; 
N. D. Bidwell, 1865-1866; Professor A. J. Robb, 1866-1874; P. E. 
Wager, 1874; E. E. Ashley, 1875-1887, and Charles N. Cobb, who be- 
came the first superintendent of the schools. Mr. Cobb remained two 
years. Mr. Cobb was succeeded by H. H. Loomis of Palatine Bridge, 
who remained three years and resigned to attend the law department 
of Cornell university. 

The present union school system at Mechanicville was organized 
October 12, 1887. The first board of education was comprised of C. 
W. Keefer, M. D., W. B. Neilson, Thomas J. Sweeney, W. W. Smith, 
Charles F. Crosby, D. E. La Dow and George Rogers. Mr. La Dow 
has been president of the board since its organization. The school 
building was completed in the fall of 1888, and on' November 5 of that 
year it was opened for instruction with the following corps of instruct- 
ors: L. B Blakeman, principal; Miss Ella R. Church, assistant prin- 
cipal; Misses Mary A. Van Vleck, Amy S. Peet, Louise G. Franklin, 
Harriet A. Massey, Sarah M. Couch and Mary E. Hewitt. From a 
teaching force of eight persons, the growth has been such as to require 
at present (1898) nineteen teachers and a superintendent of schools. 
The appointment, October 7, 1897, of Mr. Blakeman to the position of 
superintendent left a vacancy in the principalship, which was filled by 
the election of Louis R. Wells. 

The first schools in Stillwater were supported by subscription and 
were held in private houses. In 1804 the Masonic fraternity erected a 
buildmg in the upper part of the village and donated the use of the 
lower portion as a public school room, the only restriction being that 
the village should keep it in repair. In 1847 an academy was organ- 
ized and was successfully conducted for many years. About the be- 
ginning of the civil war it failed, and after that time there were three 
public schools in the village for primary instruction. 

May 30, 1873, the union free school of Stillwater was organized. 
The first board of education consisted of: Wm. H. Davenport, Ed- 
ward I. Wood, Matthew Pack, Egbert Gardner and Peter V. Wetsell. 
The first officers were: P. V. Wetsell, president; E. I. Wood, secre- 
tary; James Rundle, treasurer; John St. John, collector. C. A. Deyoe 
was elected principal and continued as such nearly four years. His 
successors have been William M. Whitney, T. O. Fisk, C. H. Stock- 
well, James R. Thompson, Ira H. Lawton, D. L. Kathan, F. H. 
Ames, Alexander Falconer, and the present principal, Willis U. Hin- 



1861-1898— SCHOOLS. 285 

man, who has held the position since 1892. The present school build- 
ing was erected in 188.3 at a cost of $12,000. It is of brick, three 
stories high, heated with steam, has six school rooms, two recitation 
rooms, library, and an auditorium on the third floor seating five hun- 
dred. The school is now rated by the University of the State of New 
York as a Senior Academic School, giving three years academic work. 
There are at present seven teachers employed. 

The public school system of South Glens Falls has undergone radical 
changes in recent years. In the summer of 1880 another story was 
added to the union school building, making it a two-story structure. 
In 1893 and 1894 the present building was erected. The present 
school is a graded high school under the supervision of the Regents of 
the University of the State of New York, having been admitted as a 
Regents' school of junior grade December 12, 1894, and raised, after 
inspection, to the grade of high school December 7, 1897. Nine teach- 
ers are employed. The presidents of the board of education since 1877 
have been : 

1877, Rufus White; 1878-79, John Delaney; 1880-84, John Jackson; 1885, Charles 
Robinson; 1886-89, Herman B. Parks; 1890, George I. Jackson; 1891, Herman B. 
Parks; 1893, George I. Jackson; 1893, S. H. Van Derwerker; 1894-95, Theodore 
Comstock; 1896, Herman B. Parks; 1897, Theodore Comstock. 

These persons have served, during that period, as principals of the 
schools : 

1877-78, Herman B. Parks, Jennie A. Payne ; 1879, Margaret M. Kelly, George 
M. Watkins; 1880, Margaret M. Kelly, H. B. Parks; 1881, H. B. Parks; 1882-1884, 
Michael A. Breen ; 1885, M. A. Breen. Margaret Keenan ; 1886, Margaret Keenan ; 
1887, Margaret Keenan, Jeanette Reynolds; 1888-89, George M. B. Bradshaw; 1890, 
G. M. B. Bradshaw, James Mace Smith; 1891-92, J. M. Smith ; 1893-98, James E. 
Kelley. 

The Corinth union school is the outgrowth of the earlier district 
schools. It was organized as a union free school in 1889, and a hand- 
some and commodious new school building was erected in 1891. In 

1892 the school was placed under the supervision of the Regents, and a 
training class department was organized in September, 1894. William 
H. Harris, the first principal of the school, served one year. In 1892 
he was succeeded by W. C. Franklin, who also served one year. In 

1893 A. M. HoUister was chosen principal, and still serves in that 
capacity. The board of education consists of Warren Curtis, T. Elix- 
man, Michael Carey, A. C. Hickok, C. H. Pitts, Jo.seph B. Ross and 
James A. Dayton. 



286 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



NEWSPAPERS OF THE COUNTY. 



The first newspaper in Saratoga county was issued more than a cen- 
tury ago. June 1-i, 1798, the Saratoga Register or Farmers' Journal 
was published at Court House Hill in the town of Ballston, by Increase 
and William Child. It was a small sheet, four pages, and almost abso- 
lutely devoid of local news. The first issue of the paper made the an- 
nouncement that the office of publication was " over the store of Messrs. 
Robert Leonard & Co., nearly opposite the Court House." The Jour- 
nal, as it was commonly known, supported the administration of Presi- 
dent John Adams, then the head of the Federal party. This paper has 
undergone many changes, and is now known as the Ballston Journal, 
published at Ballston Spa by H. L. Grose & Sons. 

The second newspaper printed in this county was the Waterford 
Gazette, which was established at Waterford October 27, 1801, by Hor- 
ace L. Wadsworth. The Gazette was continued until 181G, when pub- 
lication was suspended. Following the founding of the Waterford 
Gazette, these newspapers have been established : 

The Waterford Reporter, published in 1822 by William L. Fisk. 

The Anti-Masonic Recorder, published at Waterford in 1830 by J. C. 
Johnson. 

The Waterford Atlas, founded December 1, 1832, by William Holland 
& Co. In 1834 it was changed to 

The Waterford Atlas and Manufacturers', Mechanics' and Farmers' 
Journal. 

The Democratic Champion, published at Waterford in 18-4() by H. 
Wilber. 

The Waterford Sentinel, established May 18, 1850, by Andrew Hoff- 
man. In 1858 it was sold to J. H. Masten, afterward to William T. 
Baker, in 1870 to Hayward & Palmateer, and in 1871 to S. A. Hathaway. 
In April, 1872, R. D. Palmateer began the publication of the 

Waterford Advertiser. In July, 1873, he purchased the Waterford 
Sentinel, the publication of which was then discontinued. From Octo- 
ber 1, 1882, to June, 1891, the Advertiser was published by Palmateer 
& Smith. Since then J. W. Smith has been sole proprietor. 

The Saratoga Advertiser was established at Ballston Spa in 1804 by 
Samuel B. Brown. It was soon after changed to 

The Aurora Borealis and Saratoga Advertiser, and published by 
Brown & Miller. In 1810 it again passed into the hands of Samuel B. 
Brown, and was called 



THE NEWSPAPER RECORD. 387 

The Advertiser, continuing as such for several years. 

The Independent American was started September 37, 1808, by 
William Child. In 1818 it appeared as 

The People's Watch Tower, published by James Comstock, and in 
1820 as 

The Saratoga Farmer, published by H. G. Spafford, author of Spaf- 
ford's Gazetteer of the State of New York. In 1831 it was changed to 

The Ballston Spa Gazette and Saratoga Farmer, and in 1823 to 

The Ballston Spa Gazette, published by J. Comstock. April 20, 
18-17, it appeared as 

The- Ballston Democratic Whig Journal, edited by J. O. Nodyne. 
In 1818 it was changed to 

The Ballston Journal, and was published by Albert A. Moore. In 
1860 it passed into the hands of H. L. Grose & Sons, who ever since 
have been its publishers. 

The Saratoga Courier was published at Ballston Spa in 1818 by Ulys- 
ses F. Doubleday. 

The Saratoga Journal was published for a short time at Ballston Spa 
by Josiah Bunce. 

The Saratoga Recorder and Anti-Masonic Democrat was published 
at Saratoga in 1831 by D. Tehan. 

The New York Palladium was published in 1831 by Ansel Warren. 

The Schenectady and Saratoga Standard was published at Ballston 
Spa in 1832-3 by Israel Sackett. 

The Ballston Democrat was started in 1843 by Newell Hine. In 
1853 it was united with the Northern Mirror and published as 

The Ballston Democrat and Mirror. It was subsequently published 
as 

The Ballston Atlas, by Seymour Chase, until 1863, when it passed 
into the hands of E. W. Reynolds, who removed it to .Saratoga. 

The Gem of the North was started in 1850 by Curtis & Lee, and 
published about one year, when it was changed to 

The Northern Mirror, and in 1853 it was united with the Ballston 
Democrat. 

The Saratoga Gazette was published at Saratoga Springs in 1810. 

The Saratoga Patriot was started by Samuel R. Brown. In 1813 
it was removed to Albany. 

The Saratoga Sentinel was founded in 1819 by G. M. Davidson. In 
1845 it was merged in the Republican. 



288 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The Saratoga Whig was started in 1839 by Huling & Watts. In 
1840 it passed into the hands of G. W. vSpooner, and afterwards was 
owned by E. G. Huling. In 1851 it was changed to 

The Saratoga County Press. A daily edition started in 1844 was 
published in 1855 as 

The Saratoga Daily News. Huling & Morehouse were the publish- 
ers. 

The Daily Sentinel was started in 1842 in Saratoga Springs by Wilbur 
& Palmer. From 1855 to 1857 it was issued as 

The Dail}^ Post, and then was changed back to the Sentinel. Jan- 
uary 1, 1879, it was united with the Republican. 

The Republican was started in 1844 and issued daily and weekly 
by John A. Corey. In 1853 it passed into the hands of Thomas G. 
Young, and January 1, 1859, it was united with the Sentinel and 
published as 

The Republican and Sentinel, daily and weekly, by Thomas G.Young. 

The Old Letter was published at Saratoga in 1849 by A. H. Allen. 

The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald was published semi-monthly 
in 1850, by James White. 

The Temperance Helper was started in January, 1850, by the Sara- 
toga County Temperance Alliance. In 1855 it was purchased by Potter 
& Judson, and in 1856 it was changed to 

The Saratogian. A daily edition was published for several years 
during the summer season, but it is now continued through the year. 
The firm of Potter & Judson was composed of Waldo M. Potter and 
Benjamin F. Judson. Upon Mr. Potter's withdrawal in September, 
1870, his place was taken in the firm by David F. Ritchie, and the firm 
of Judson & Ritchie was thus formed, which conducted the paper for 
some time, until Mr. Judson's interest was purchased by Charles F. Paul 
and the firm of Paul & Ritchie was then formed. About 1881 this firm 
was dissolved by judgment of the Supreme Court and the partnership 
assets afterward sold and purchased by a corporation formed in Janu- 
ary, 1882, known as "The Saratogian." This corporation has con- 
tinued as the publisher of "The Saratogian," a weekly edition, and 
" The Daily Saratogian" since that time. 

The Saratoga Sentinel was started in 1854, by Allen Corey, and sold 
in May, 1855, to Clark & Thayer. In 1859 it was united with the Re- 
publican. 




JOHN W. HOWH. 



THE NEWSPAPER RECORD. 280 

The Schuylerville Herald was published at Schuylerville in 1844 bj' 
J. L. Cramer. 

Old Saratoga was started in 1848 at Schuylerville by J. L. Cramer, 
and continued until 1852. 

Battle (Ground Herald was published at Schuylerville from August, 
18o3, to July, 1857, by R. N. Atwell & Co. 

The vSaratoga County American was started in December, 1857. It 
was afterwards published at Schuylerville by J. R. Rockwell. 

The Stillwater Gazette was started at Stillwater in 1845 by Isaac A. 
Pitman, and was published three years. 

The Cold Water Battery was published at Stillwater in 1845 by Isaac 
A. Pitman. 

The Hudson River Chronicle was published at Mechanicville from 
October, 1856, to March, 1858, by Samuel Heron. 

The Crescent Eagle was published in 1852 by C. Ackerman. 

The Morning Star was published at Mechanicville in 1854-5 by C. 
Smith & Co. 

The Ballston Democrat was started in 1805 by Curtis & Mann, and 
published by them until August 16, 18(36, when it passed into the hands 
of J. M. Waterbury, by whom it was published until February, 1868, 
when it passed into the hands of William S. Waterbury. In 1888 it 
was purchased by M. P. Morse, its present proprietor. 

The Saratoga Sun was started in September, 1870, by Albert S. 
Pease. December 11, 1882, it was purchased by Edward P. Howe. 
January 14, 1892, the latter associated with him his son, Lewis Mc- 
Henry Howe. 

The Saratoga Eagle was founded in 1879 by John Johnson and Tim- 
othy Harrington. In May, 1889, Frank M. Cozzens and Frederick M. 
Waterbury purchased it. In May, 1897, Mr. Waterbury bought the 
interest of Mr. Cozzens and is now sole proprietor. 

The Mechanicville Mercury was established in 1881. It is now pub- 
lished by Farrington L. Mead. 

The Upper Hudson Mail was established about 1890 at Mechanic- 
ville by Mr. Snell. It ceased publication in 1893. 

The Ballston Spa Daily News was founded in 1888 by M. P. Morse. 

The Corinthian is published at Corinth by C. H. Wyman. 

The Ballston Daily Journal, a daily edition of the Ballston Journal, 
was started by H. L. Grose & Sons in 1892. 

The Saratoga Union was founded in 1872. It became e.xtinct in 1894. 



290 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The Stillwater Journal was founded in June, 1892, by Robert Har- 
court, the present proprietor. 

The Round Lake Season was published at Round Lake from June 
1 to September 28, 1895, by Rev. Edward C. Hoyt. 

The Round Lake Enterprise was published weekly at Round Lake, 
by Rev. Edward C. Hoyt, from May 1, 1896, to August 27, 1897. 

The Register, a monthly paper, was established at Ballston Spa, by 
Rev. Dr. Charles Pelletreau, in 1897. 

BANKS. 

Several important changes in the banking institutions of Saratoga 
county have occurred in the period of which we are writing. Soon 
after the close of the war the Commercial National bank of Saratoga 
Springs was organized under the State banking laws. Judge John 
Willard was its president for several years. It was reorganized later 
as a national bank. At the time of its reorganization and for several 
years thereafter Charles S. Lester was its president. He was succeeded 
by John T. Carr. In 1873 the Union Savings bank of Saratoga Springs 
was chartered by an act passed March 28. The new bank began busi- 
ness April 1, 1873, with J. S. Leake as president and S. H. Richards 
as secretary and treasurer. Deposits were received at the First Na- 
tional and Commercial National banks. April 16, 1874, Charles H. 
Hulbert was chosen to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr. 
Richards as treasurer and trustee. July 1, 1875, the bank located in 
quarters at the south end of the United States hotel. Its career was 
short, however. In December 1878, both the Commercial National 
and the Union Savings banks failed and never were reorganized. 

The Citizens National Bank of Saratoga Springs was organized Sep- 
tember 1, 1881, with a capital of $100,000. The first officers were: 
President, Daniel A. Bullard; vice-president, Henry S. Clement; 
cashier, John H. De Ridder. January 3, 1882, Mr. De Ridder was 
succeeded as cashier by Lester A. Sharp. In February, 1889, Charles 
D. Thurber succeeded Mr. Sharp. In March, 1892, Mr. De Ridder 
again succeeded to the cashier's desk and is now filling the position. 
Mr. Bullard retired from the presidency in February, 1889, and John 
Foley was elected to succeed him. Mr. Foley is still the official head 
of the institution. In February, 1883, Henry S. Clement was succeeded 
as vice-president by William H. Clement, who was succeeded by Hiram 
Newell in January, 1888. William T. Rockwood became vice-president 



BANKS. 291 

in Februar3% 1890, and occupies the position at present. The bank has 
leased for thirty years of Abel Putnam, Jr., the brick block on the 
northeast corner of Broadway and Phila street. It has been elaborately 
remodeled and the corner store converted into a modern banking- house. 
Theatre Saratoga is included in the bank's leased property. 

The National Bank of Schuylerville originated in a private bank es- 
tablished in 1853 by William Wilcox. Its capital was $50,000. Three 
years later it was merged into an organized institution known as the 
Bank of Old Saratoga, which started business in 1856 with a capital 
stock of $100,000 William Wilcox became its president and Giles C. 
Brisbin, cashier. In 1865 this bank was succeeded by the National 
bank of Schuylerville, which started business with a capital stock of 
$100,000. The concern was reincorporated in 1885, its capital being 
reduced to $50,000. D. A. Bullard, for many years president of this 
bank, established the Citizens National bank at Saratoga Springs in 
1881-1882. The first president of this bank was C. W. Mayhew. He 
was succeeded by (Jeorge L. Ames and the latter by D. A. Bullard, 
who still holds that office. The cashiers of the bank in the order of 
their service, have been: George Watson, John H. De Ridder and 
C. E. Brisbin. 

The First National bank of Ballston Spa was organized and began 
business April 1, 1805, with a paid-in capital of $100,000, and an author- 
ized capital of $250,000; but it has never been increased to that figure. 
The first president was Hiro Jones, who served until March 5, 1870, 
resigning on accoant of continued ill health. George West, who was 
vice-president when jVIr. Jones resigned, acted as president until Feb- 
ruary 2, 1880, at which date he was elected president. He still serves 
in that capacity. James W. Horton was the first vice-president of the 
bank, serving until February 15, 1870, when Henry A. Mann was 
chosen. December (J, 1875, he was succeeded by George West. The 
first cashier was John D. Bancroft; he served until December 18, 1871, 
when he was succeeded by Stephen C. Medbery. Mr. Medbery, at 
that time but twenty-four years of age, enjoyed the distinction of being 
the youngest bank cashier in New York State, if not in the United 
States. He still continues to act in that capacity, and to his great dis- 
cretion and financial ability much of the success of the bank is due. 
George C. Beecher was the bank's first teller. He was succeeded in 
turn by Stephen C. Medbery, Egbert T. Clute, Mr. Durkee, Charles 
H. Cook and Charles E, Fitcham, who has occupied that position since 



292 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

March 1, 1895. R. M. Medbery has been clerk since June 18, 1888. 
The bank has a surplus of $100,000. 

The First National bank of Mechanicville was chartered May 1, 1884, 
with these directors, which had been elected March preceding: John 

C. Greene, George Rogers, Charles H. Cory, Ephraim C. Ellsworth, 
Edgar Holmes, William W. Smith, George R. Moore, J. Frank Terry, 
Henry Newland, George B. Perry, John J. Beattie, John Hall and 
Thomas Coleman. They elected John C. Greene president, George 
Rogers, vice-president and S. C. Bull cashier. Mr. Greene served as 
president until May 3, 1887, when George Rogers was elected to the 
office. His successors as president have been: William W. Smith, 
elected January 17, 1888 (died January 20, 1891); Edgar Holmes, 
elected January 2i, 1891; Ben B. Smith, elected January 34, 1892. 
The latter is still in office. S. C. Bull was cashier until March, 1888, 
when Adelbert J. Harvey, the present cashier, succeeded him. The 
vice-presidents have been: George Rogers, 1884 to 1887 ; William W. 
Smith, elected May 3, 1887; David Akin, elected January 17, 188H; 
Ben B. Smith, elected January 24, 1891; David Akin, elected January 
19, 1892. The latter is still the incumbent of that office. The original 
capital stock of this institution, $50,000, remains unchanged. The 
bank is carrying on business in the building it erected the year the 
concern was organized. 

Mechanicville's industries increasing in number and extent very rap- 
idly, it was deemed advisable to establish a new bank in 189G, and 
April 16 of that year the Manufacturers' National bank was chartered, 
with a capital stock of $60,000. This institution began business May 4, 
1S96, in the building at the corner of Main street and Park avenue. 
The present officers are the same as at first elected. They are: Pres- 
ident, Edgar Holmes; vice-president, John C. Duncan; cashier, Charles 

D. Thurber; directors, Edgar Holmes, Edward H. Strang, William L. 
Howland, W. B. Neilson, O. Tompkins, Adelbert B. Orcutt, Joseph H. 
Packer, John C. Duncan, George Rogers, J. E. Lamb, W. R. Palmer. 

The banking house of S. C. Bull & Co. of W^aterford is the successor 
to the old Saratoga County bank, which was incorporated May 29, 
1830, with a capital stock of $100,000. John Knickerbacker was the 
first president, and Jonathan H. Douglas the first cashier. In Decem- 
ber, 1856, the capital stock of this bank was increased to $150,000. In 
May, 1865, it was reorganized as a national bank, in 1871 again became 
a State bank and in 1880 a national bank again. In 1885 it went into 



PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. -^93 

voluntary liquidation. Those who served as its presidents were John 
Knickerbacker, John Cramer, Hugh White, William Scott and Chaun- 
cey Boughton. April 1, 1886, the banking house was purchased by S. 
C. Bull. In October, 1887, F. F. Follet entered into a copartnership 
with Mr. Bull, under the firm name of S. C. Bull & Co., which has 
existed to the present time. The bank is a private institution, and the 
only one in Waterford. 

PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. 

The first county clerk's office' was erected at Ballston Spa in 1824, 
while Thomas Palmer was serving as county clerk. ^ In 1834 the State 
Legislature passed a law authorizing the erection of a suitable building 
for the preservation of the county records, at an expense of $1,000, and 
named Edward Watrous, Eli Barnum and Moses Williams as a com- 
mittee of construction. The result of the work was the erection of a 
small but substantial stone building at Ballston Spa. In 1865 the 
board of supervisors, finding this building inadequate and inconvenient 
in its location, decided to erect a more commodious house on the ground 
adjoining the site of the court house to the west, on the north side of 
High street. The board appointed Arnold Harris, Joseph Baucus, 
David T. Lamb, James W. Horton, Edwin H. Chapman, Charles S. 
Lester and William V. Clark a committee to erect the new building, at 
a cost of $10,000. The work was completed and the new officers first 
occupied it in the summer of 1866, Mr. Horton previously having re- 
moved the county records to the State armory' on High street. 

The Saratoga waterworks are operated under what is known as the 
Holly system, the water being pumped from Loughberry lake, which 
is in the town of Saratoga Springs. When the works were set in mo- 
tion July 10, 1871, a gang pump supplied a million gallons of water 
daily. Three years after the pumping machinery was increased to the 
capacity of two and a half millions of water daily. In 1882 a Gaskell 
engine' capable of furnishing five millions daily was added, and in 1890 

* This venerable relic still stands on the south side of Front street at Ballston Spa, just east of 
the Delaware & Hudson railroad bridge. 

2 Mr. Palmer was county clgrk from 1818 to 183.3. 
' This building for many years has been used by Christ P. E. church as a chapel. 

* The purchase of the first Gaskell engine in ISS'i was the occasion for a bitter legal and polit- 
ical struggle. This engine was the first of its type and a considerable departure from preceding 
types of pumping engines. Its performances were so remarkable that they e.\cited distrust in 
the minds of experts. The engine was condemned as a fraud, the commissioners who had pur- 
chased it accused of corruption and suits brought to prevent the completion of its purchase. The 



294 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

a $50,000 Holly engine, with a capacity of eight millions every twenty- 
four hours, was purchased. The two later engines now constitute the 
sole pumping machinery, the others having been removed. David 
Holland was chief engineer from the time the works were started until 
1887, when his assistant, George F. Bacon, was appointed to the posi- 
sition, and Charles J. Traver was appointed assistant. Messrs. Bacon 
and Traver hold their respective positions at present. 

The Saratoga Springs fire department originated in an organization 
formed after the first fire in 1825 by Nathaniel H. Waterbury. It con- 
sisted of ten young men who volunteered their services. Soon after 
the incorporation of the village, which occurred April 17, 182'), two 
fire companies were formed, and the first organization of the old volun- 
teer system was effected. The first fire wardens of the village were 
William A. Langworthy, Miles Beach and Joseph White. Rockwell 
Putnam was chief engineer and Ransom Cook assistant. Mr. Lang- 
worthy was made captain of Company No. 1, and Nathaniel H. Water- 
bury captain of Company No. 2, which were organized at that time. 
May 1, 1837, the board of trustees were sworn into office, and Wash- 
ington Putnam, John A. Waterbury and Eli Holbrook were appointed 
fire wardens. Rockwell Putnam was continued as chief engineer and 
Samuel Holbrook was made assistant. During the year Dr. John Clark 
was authorized to buy a fire engine for the village, and $400 was ap- 
propriated for that purpose. The engine was a small one worked by 
hand brakes, and the pipe holder stood on top of it and directed the 
stream on the fire. In 1830 another hand engine was purchased for 
$500. April 16, 1836, a hook and ladder company was organized. 

In 1844 a reservoir of about 3,000 hogsheads capacity was erected on 
Franklin square, into which ran the water from the aqueduct of Thomas 
J. Marvin and from several springs. The water was distributed through 
the village in wooden conduits. In 1845 a new hand engine, costing 
$050, was purchased. Three years later the records show that the 
village supported three fire companies and one hook and ladder com- 
pany. One of the fire companies was disbanded in that year, but soon 
was reorganized. 

November 29, 1844, a disastrous fire occurred, causing a loss of $15,- 
000, a large amount for those days. A new system of water works was 

litigation not only vindicated the merits of the engine and the honesty of the "coinmissioners but 
served to make the superiority of the engine widely known and led to its extensive adoption for 
similar use throughout the country. 



PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. 295 

established soon, the reservoir being located in the town of Greenfield. 
October 2, 1855, Engine Company No. 4 was organized. In 1858 the 
engine under control of the Congress and Empire Spring company was 
placed in charge of the village and Engine Company No. 5 was organ- 
ized. In 1863 a new engine was purchased for Engine Company No. 3. 

March 38, 18GG, the first steam fire engine, called the " Saratoga," 
was purchased of the Button works at Waterford for $3, 500. It was 
located in the house of Engine Company No. 1 on Hamilton street, and 
Dennis Madigan was appointed engineer in charge. 

The burning of the famous United States hotel June 18, 1SG5, caus- 
ing a loss of $350,000, was the greatest fire up to that time in the his- 
tory of Saratoga Springs. The local fire department was unable to 
cope with the overpowering conflagration, and the news of the fire 
having reached neighboring towns, Eagle engine No. 1 and Star engine 
No. 2 from Ballston Spa and Hugh Rankin steamer from Troy were 
sent by special train to the scene of the catastrophe. With their assist- 
ance the fire was soon checked. 

Congress Hall burned on the night of May 38, 1866, but the depart- 
ment succeeded in saving the adjacent property. In the fall of that 
year the village purchased a new steam engine, which was named the 
"John H. White." 

September 13 and 14, 1871, a grand firemen's tournament was held 
at Saratoga Springs. On the second day of the festivities fire destroyed 
the Crescent, the Park Place and the Columbian hotels, with several 
other buildings, causing a loss of $200,000. 

October 1, 1874, the Grand hotel took fire, and despite the most 
heroic efforts on the part of the local department, assisted by engines 
and firemen from Troy, Ballston Spa and other places, this magnificent 
hotel was destroyed. 

In 1877 a fire alarm telegraph system was constructed. Since that 
date numerous other improvements have been made, until the Saratoga 
Springs department is to-day one of the best equipped departments in 
any town of its size in the country. 

The Saratoga paid fire department succeeded the volunteer compan- 
ies in 1883, taking the place of six hose companies, three steamer com- 
panies, one protective company and a hook and ladder. The first chief 
engineer was Elias J. Shad wick, who has filled this position contin- 
uously with the exception of from May, 1893, to November, 1893, when 
Charles F. See was chief. John T. Dillon was the first assistant chief, 



296 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and served until November, 1886. The only other assistant chief has 
been Richard Mingay, jr., who at present fills the position. The de- 
partment includes nine permanent and thirteen call firemen, and is 
eqipped with a Hayes truck. The central house is on Broadway. 

The fire department of Ballston Spa consists of two hose companies 
and a hook and ladder company, which have been in existence several 
years. They are Eagle Fire company No. 1, Union Fire company No. 
3 and Matt Lee Hook and Ladder company No. 2. Water is taken 
from a reservoir two miles and a half north of the village, and the pres- 
sure is sufficient to do away with the necessity of a fire engine. 

Mechanicville has an excellent fire department. May 31, 1875, the 
village purchased of L. Button & Son of Waterford an engine known as 
Washington engine No. 1. This was sold in 1897 to the village of 
Schaghticoke. The successor of Washington Engine company is known 
as the La Dow Steamer and Hose company. A system of water works 
was constructed in 1891 and 1893, at an expense of about $140,000. 
The reservoir is located three miles northw-est of the village, above 
Willow Glen. The sewer system of Mechanicville was constructed in 
1896 at a cost of $40,000. 

The Saratoga Athenaeum and School of Design was organized in 1884 
and incorporated in 1885. The founder was Prof. Nathan .Sheppard, 
who was its president imtil his death in 1887. Charles C. Lester is the 
present president. The object of the Athenaeum is the maintenance of 
a public circulating and reference library and school of design and art 
gallery. The headquarters are in the French building on Broadway 
and the hope of the members and officers is that in time a handsome 
building will be the home of the worthy institution which aims to instill 
into the hearts of the community a love for the best in art and litera- 
ture. The trustees of the Athenaeum are Charles C. Lester, Winsor B. 
French, James Mingay, Charles F. Dowd, Edgar T. Brackett, Antoine 
de R. McNair, Theodore F. Hamilton, Tabor B. Reynolds, Cassius B. 
Thomas, John W. Shackelford. 

The floral fetes which have been the culmination of Saratoga's sum- 
mer season for four years had their inception in a speech made in 1893 
by Franklin W. Smith, proprietor of the House of Pansa. The first 
fete held in 1894 was a revelation, the echoes of which did not die 
down until the fete of the following year, which brought 50,000 people 
to witness the gorgeous pageant of carriages and floats. The fete of 
1895 retained the features of its predecessors and in line with the 




I 



CHAKLtS C. LhSTbK. 



PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. 297 

times, brought into prominence the bicycle. There were myriads of 
blossom bedecked wheels divided into squadrons and cavalcades. Gov. 
Levi P. Morton rode in the van of the pageant. In 1896 the fete de- 
veloped into such prominence that 100,000 excursionists visited Sara- 
toga. The event was no longer a local one and the country for miles 
around was called on to contribute flowers used in ornamenting the 
cortege of equipages which passed through floral arches on streets 
lined with gay decorations and thronged with admiring thousands. 
The fete of 1897 was the climax of the series. The street display was 
rivaled by the floral ball, which, although a popular part of previous 
fetes, reached the zenith of perfection this year. Convention hall, 
where the ball took place, was turned into a tropical bower, upon whose 
brilliant verdure countless lights flickered and glistened Six thousand 
people looked on while two thousand participated in the terpsichorean 
ecstasies. Scores of children took part in a spectacular fantasie, "The 
Realms of the Rose," composed and arranged by M. S. Frothingham 
of New York. The fetes are conducted early in September by a floral 
festival association, and their object is for the general glory of Saratoga 
and to show that some attention is paid to the esthetic. 

The Charlton Industrial Farm school is a quasi public institution. 
In the fall of 1894 John S. Hawley of New York city, who had become 
interested in the welfare of wayward youth, opened a correspondence 
with Dr. James T. Sweetman of Charlton, of which town Mr. Hawley 
was a native, with the object of beginning an industrial farm school in 
Charlton. Dr. Sweetman talked of the project with his neighbors; 
meetings were held and the result was that the Valentine farm, one of 
the best in the town, was selected for the location of the proposed in- 
stitution, Mr. Hawley donating the sum of $25,000 to begin the work. 
The farm cost about $14,000, besides stock, tools, etc. The institution 
was opened about the beginning of the year 1896. Subscriptions for a 
new building have come in, so that the managers now have on hand 
money sufficient to erect a building that will accommodate from thirty 
to fort)' boys. It is expected that this building will be erected very 
soon. The object of this school is to reclaim boys who, for lack of 
parental restraint, are drifting toward a life of crime. The boys are 
committed by legal process to the custody of the school. Being thus 
removed from their vicious associates, they are brought under good 
moral influences, taught the value of character, trained to industry and 
given a good elementary education. James M. Bell is superintendent 



298 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and Mrs. Kate De R. Thorburn i.s matron. The directors are Rev. A. 
Wareham, president; William Chalmers, vice-president; James T. 
Sweetman, M. D., secretary and treasurer; George C. Valentine and 
Walter I. Cavert. The outlook for the institution is most promising. 

The articles of incorporation of the Schuylerville Steamboat com- 
pany were filed in the office of the county clerk May 3, 1898. The 
capital is $30,000, and the object of the corporation is to perfect and 
maintain steam navigation for fifty years on the waters of the Upper 
Hudson river between Schuylerville and Stillwater. The incorporatprs 
are Joseph A. Powers, Albert W. Powers, Edward F. Powers, James 
H. Caldwell, John Knickerbacker, Henry Newland, Herbert O. Bailey. 
The company operates a steam yacht for passenger traffic between the 
villages named, connecting at Stillwater with the electric railway for 
Troy and Albany. 

The Dunsbach Bridge company began, in 1898, the construction of 
a bridge across the Mohawk river at Dunsbach's Ferry, and had spent 
about $18,000 upon the work when the Halfmoon Bridge company, 
which operates a bridge over the Mohawk at Crescent, began an action 
to restrain the iirst-named companj' from continuing the work, claim- 
ing that the new company sought to infringe upon the rights of the 
older company. The matter is not yet decided. 

CLUBS, SOCIETIES, ETC. 

The most noted social organization in Saratoga county probably is 
the Saratoga club of Saratoga Springs. 

The Saratoga club was organized in 1892, and in January, 1894, the 
club occupied its handsome North Broadway home. The club house 
and site cost $30,000 and the materials used in its construction are brick 
and terra cotta. S. Gilford Slocum of New York and Saratoga was the 
architect. In the personnel of its membership and in the appointments 
of its club house the organization has no superior between Troy and 
Montreal. James M. Marvin was the club's first president and he has 
been successively re-elected every year. In 1892 and '93 George P. 
Lawton was vice-president, John C. Shepherd treasurer and Wharton 
Meehan secretary. In 1894 the officers were the same, with the ex- 
ception of the vice-president, who was J. Willard Lester. In 1895 Mr. 
Lester was vice-president, Mr. Shepherd treasurer, and C. E. Durkee 
secretary. The officers in 1890 and 1897 were John A. Manning, vice- 
president, Mr. Shepherd treasurer and Heman L. Waterbury secretary. 



CLUBS, SOCIETIES, ETC. 299 

In 1898 John A. Manning was elected vice-president, Lynn R. Rich, 
treasurer to succeed Mr. Shepherd, deceased, and Mr. Waterbury 
secretary. 

The Utopian club of Ballston Spa is another leading social organiza- 
tion of the county. The following entry in the records of the club ex- 
plains its organization : 

Monday Evening, Sept. 7, 1885. 

According to agreement a party of young men assembled at the store of John H. 
Westcot, to take up the question of organizing a social or dancing club. There were 
present, William J. Mitchell, Herbert C. Westcot, Horace E. McKnight and Herman 
W. Gunther. 

After considering the question in its different phases and agreeing to support a 
club of the kind, it was resolved, considering the small number present, to call a 
meeting of the young men of the village, who would naturally be interested, at the 
Medbery Hotel parlor, Friday Evening, September 11. 1885, to organize a club. 

The permanent organization of the club took place September 18, 
1885, the following officers being elected: President, John H. Burke; 
vice-president, William J. Mitchell; secretary, Herman W. Gunther; 
treasurer, Herbert C. Westcot. 

Mr. Burke continued to act as president until vSepteraber 17, 1886. 
Andrew S. Booth was elected president and continued to act as such 
from September 17, 1886, to September 9, 1887. Alfred N. Wiley was 
elected and acted as president frotn September 9, 1887, to January 11, 
1889. The club was incorporated December 30, 1887, the trustees for 
the first year being: Alfred N Wiley, Irving W. Wiswall, Seth S. 
Whalen, David L. Wood and Calvin Whiting. Andrew S. Booth was 
elected president January 11, 1889, and has been regularly elected each 
year since. The membership is limited to sixty-five. 

The Waterford club, a social organization of which many of the most 
prominent men in the village are members was organized January 29, 
1885, when William Holroyd was chosen president and Thomas O'Con- 
nor secretary. The club has handsomely furnished rooms in the town 
hall. The following have served as presidents of the club in the order 
named : 

William Holroyd, Thomas Brisbin, John H. Pynes, John W. Ford, C. C. Ormsby, 
Charles L. Mitchell, William A. Dennis, William L. Porter, George Neil. 

William A. Saxe, secretary of the club, has served in that capacity 
since 1894. 

The Homoeopathic Medical .Society of Saratoga County, was organ- 
ized in 1863. Practically all of the homoeopathic practitioners in the 



300 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

county have been connected with it at some time during its existence 
of thirty-five years. Among the early members were Drs. S. J. Pear- 
sail of Saratoga Springs, Thomas E. Allen of Saratoga Springs, J. F. 
Doolittle of Ballston Spa, Zina Clement of Saratoga Springs, A. G. 
Peckham of Waterford, William E. Rogers of Rexford's Flats, B. F. 
Cornell of Fort Edward. 

Empire Lodge No. 79, K. of P., of Saratoga Springs, was instituted 
with twenty-nine members, February 5, 1873. The charter officers 
were; Chancellor commander, N. Waterbury; vice-chancellor, B. H. 
Searing; prelate, C. H. Sanborn; master at arms, C. H. J. Montgom- 
ery; keeper of records and seals, Henry Marshall; master of finance, 
T. B. Valentine; master of exchequer, William F. Calkins; inner guard, 
G. W. Zahn; outer guard, W. L. Graham; past chancellor, F. W. 
Horton. 

Merriam Rebekah Degree lodge of Saratoga Springs was chartered 
May 1, 1884, with thirty three members. The first officers were: N. 
G., A. P. Mallery; V.G., Ellen M. Martin; secretary, Mary E. Rob- 
bins; treasurer, Miriam Boyce; conductor, Nellie E. Briggs; warden, 
Addie Robbins; inside guardian, Helen Weed; outside guardian, Mar- 
garet Kirkpatrick; R. vS, N. G. , Hannah Sanborn; L. S. N. G., Sarah 
Tooley; R.S.V.G., Josephine Carlue; chaplain, Sarah Sanborn. Feb- 
ruary 18, 1885, the name of the lodge was changed to Yaddo. The 
presiding officers, in the order of their service, have been; Ellen M. 
Martin, Miriam Boyce, Nellie E. Briggs, Sarah Sanborn, Ella Farring- 
ton, Anna R. Lorman, Sarah J. Tooley, Minnie Edd)', Viola G. B. 
Martin, Mary E. Briggs, Mary C. Price, Sarah J. Putnam, Minnie E. 
Clark, Ella B. Myers. 

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS. 

The one hundredth anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of 
Independence was celebrated with great festivities at .Saratoga Springs, 
Ballston Spa and Schuylerville. At Saratoga Springs Judge Augustus 
Bockes of the Supreme Court occupied the chair at the meeting in the 
evening, held in the town hall, and the late Nathaniel Bartlett Sylves- 
ter delivered a historical address. At Ballston Spa the historical ad- 
dress was delivered by Hon. George Gordon .Scott, and Hon. Jesse .S. 
L'Amoreaux pronounced a centennial oration. At .Schuylerville an 
address was delivered by General E. F. Bullard. 

In 1877 two great historic events were celebrated in the town of Sar- 



CExXTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS. 301 

atoga. The first of these was the hundredth anniversary of the battle 
of Bemus Heights, which occurred September 19, 1777. Thousands 
of people from all sections, but principally from Saratoga county, were 
present. About nine o'clock in the morning a magnificent procession 
formed on the square at Bemus Heights hotel, near the river, and 
marched to the battlefield, half a mile distant. The order was as fol- 
lows: 

First Division. — Platoon of police: General Winsor B. French of Saratoga, grand 
marshal, and staff; Major-General Joseph B. Carr of Troy and staff; Brigadier- 
General Alonzo Alden of Troy and staff; Doring's Band of Troy; Chadwick's Guards 
of Cohoes, Captain P. H. Chadwick commanding; Troy Citizens' Corps, Captain J. 
W. Cusack commanding; Troy Tibbits Corps, Captain J. Egolf coramandmg; Troy 
Tibbits Cadets, Captain J. H. Patten commanding; Sherman Guards of Port Henry, 
Captain F. G. Atwell commanding; Hughes's Light Guard of South Glens Falls, 
Captain F. Gleesattle commanding; Burleigh Corps of Whitehall, Captain G. T. 
Hall commanding; Battery B of Troy. Captain A. H. Green commanding; Generals 
Hughes and Tracy and Colonel Lodewick of the Governor's staff; Brigadier-General 
Dickerman of Albany and staff; Hon. (ieorge Gordon Scott of Ballston Spa, presi- 
dent of the day; orators, poet and clergy. 

Second Division. — Colonel D. J. Caw, assistant marshal, and aids; Seventy-seventh 
Regiment band of Saratoga Springs; Saratoga veterans, carrying the old Bemus 
Heights regimental flag, commanded by Captain Frank Thomas; Saratoga Conti- 
nentals, mounted; representative citizens of Saratoga Springs. 

Third Division. — Captain Benjamin F. Judson, assistant marshal, commanding ; 
marshal's aids; Huling's band of Ballston Spa; Eagle Engine company of Ballston 
Spa; Hovey Fire company of Ballston Spa; Ballston Spa veterans and citizens; 
Schuylerville band; Schuylerville Fire company ; mounted yeomanry; Schuylerville 
citizens. 

The exercises at the battle-ground began about noon. After prayer 
by Rev. Peter Stryker, D. D. , of Saratoga Springs, Hon. George G. 
Scott of Ballston vSpa, president of the day, delivered a brief address. 
He was followed b)' Hon. Martin I. Townsend of Troy, who delivered 
an eloquent oration. Lieutenant-Governor Dorsheimer also made an 
address. Hon. Austin A. Yates of Schenectady read the anniversary 
poem, written by Robert Lowell of Union college. John Austin 
Stevens of New York delivered the historical narrative, giving, in de- 
tail, the history of General Burgoyne's remarkable campaign. After 
lunch and a review of the troops by Lieutenant-Governor Dorsheimer 
and General Carr and staff, the inilitary companies present participated 
in a sham battle, after which the assembled multitude returned to their 
homes. 

In his remarks, Judge Scott said: 



302 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

It is difficult to realize the far-reaching consequences of this world- renowned bat- 
tle. It has been said with much force that without it Bunker Hill would have been 
insignificant and Yorktown impossible. It secured to us the alliance and aid of 
France; it inspired us with confidence in ourselves; and foreshadowed the ultimate, 
if not early, accomplishment of American independence, which, fifteen months pre- 
vious, had been boldly, but in the apprehensions of many, prematurely and rashly 
promulgated. It is ranked by historians among the few battles in the history of the 
world that have changed the course of empires and shaped the destinies of our race. 
It has resulted in this great confederated republic, which, in spite of the defects in- 
herent in that form of government and of the severe trials through which, during its 
marvellous growth and territorial expansion, it has passed, is, for the highest pur- 
poses for which governments are instituted, superior to any other, ancient or modern. 

In the early part of his long but exceedingly interesting and valuable 
address, John Austin Stevens said: 

The ground upon which we stand is memorable. Before the discovery of the con- 
tinent this territory, at whose southern angle we are now gathered, was the battle- 
field of the Indian tribes, whose war trails lay upon its boundaries, and from the 
days of European settlement it has been the debatable ground of the French and 
Dutch, the French and English, and the colonists and English, by turns. Here the 
fate of the American empire has been repeatedly sealed. 

In closing his address Mr. Stevens said: 

The series of engagements known as the battle of Saratoga has been styled one of 
the fifteen decisive battles of the world. Its consequences were of such vast im- 
portance as to entitle it to this distinction. The long-cherished plan of the Briti.sh 
Mmistry, pursued through two campaigns with persevering obstinacy, was finally 
defeated. The open alliance of France was secured; the United States of America 
were recognized by the continental powers. The news of the victory spread rapidly 
over the land, carrying joy to the hearts of the patriots. Washington viewed it as 
a signal stroke of Providence. Congress voted the thanks of the nation to General 
Gates and his army, and a gold medal was struck and presented to him in commem- 
oration of the event. 

The second event to which reference has been made was the celebra- 
tion of the centennial anniversary of the surrender of Burgoyne, which 
was held at Schuylerville October 17, 1877. The occasion was made 
doubly interesting by the ceremony of laying the corner stone of the 
Saratoga battle monument. The number of persons in attendance is 
variously estimated at between 80,000 and 40,000. 

It was about noon before the splendid procession took up the route 
of march. It moved in the following order: 

Platoon of poliee ; Gen. Winsor B. French, chief marshal; chief marshal's staff, 
Capt. Benjamin F. Judson, Maj. W. J. Riggs, Surgeon Wm. H. Hall, Col. Hiram 
Rodgers, Capt. A. A. Patterson, J. W. Lester, R. A. Heminway, Capt. William W. 



CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS. 303 

Worden, Maj. Edgar T. Brackett, Capt. Edward P. Howe. Capt. P. F. Allen, Samuel 
F. Corey, Capt. James M. Andrews, jr., Saratoga Springs; Capt. Walton W. French, 
Ballston Spa; Capt. Geo. Robinson, Capt. Thomas, Dr. Gray, Delcour S. Potter, A. 
Welch, J. S. Dillenbeck, Charles H. McNaughton, S. McCreedy, P. S. Wheeler, Dr. 
N. C. Harris, Lieutenants Dillenbeck, Fletcher, Pennock, Schuylerville; Doring's 
band of Troy; Co. F. Tenth regiment, Capt. George Weidman commanding, of 
Albany; Co. I, Twenty-fifth regiment, Capt. Walker commanding, of Albany; First 
Company Governor's Foot Guards of Hartford Conn., in Old English uniform worn 
in George Ill's reign, W. A. Talcott, major, commanding battalion ; Colt's band, 
Hartford, Conn., Thomas G. Adkins, leader; Capt. A. H. Wiley, commanding first 
company; Lieut. R. D. Burdick, commanding second company; Lieut. S. E. Hascall. 
commanding third company; Lieut. W. E. Eaton, commanding fourth company ; 
Park Guards of Bennington, Vt. , Capt. O. N. Wilcox, commander, with band; 
Hughe.s Light Guards of Glens Falls, Captain Gleesattle, commanding; Grand Mar- 
shal of Knights Templar and aides; Ballston Cornet band ; Washington Commandery 
of Saratoga Springs; Apollo Commandery of Troy; Temple Commandery No. 2 of 
Albany; Holy Cross Commandery of Gloversville ; La Fayette Commandery of Hud- 
son; Little Falls Commandery of Little Falls; Desoto Commandery No. 49 of Platts- 
biirgh ; Killington Commandery of Rutland, Yt. ; Bennington band ; Tefft Command- 
ery of Bennington, Vt. ; St. (ieorge's Commandery No. 37, of Schenectady; M. W. , 
J. J. Couch, grand master of Masons in the State of New York; R. W., Edmund L. 
Judson, deputy grand master; R. W. , Jesse B. Anthony, senior grand warden; Ben- 
jamin Flagler, junior grand warden ; New York State officials; president of the day, 
Alexander H. Rice, governor of Massachusetts; orators; poets; speakers; clergy and 
chaplain in carriages; the Saratoga Monument association; invited gT.iests in car- 
riages; Schuylerville Cornet band; veterans of the late war; Grand Army of the Re- 
public; veterans of the war with Mexico; veterans of the war of 1812; descendants of 
revolutionary .soldiers; Seventy-seventh Regimental band of Saratoga Springs; cav- 
alry in continental uniform. Maj. J. S. Fassett, commanding, Saratoga Springs; 
Ballston Spa cavalry. Col C. T. Peck, commander; civic associations; municipal au- 
thorities of Schuylerville. 

The route of march was as follows: 

Gates avenue to Grove street; Grove to Pearl to Burgoyne; Burgoyne to Broad; 
Broad to Spring; Spring to Church; Church to Burgoyne; Burgoyne to Pearl; Pearl 
to Saratoga; Saratoga to Green; Green to Burgoyne; Burgoyne to Cemetery. 

The order of exercises at the monuiTient were as follows: 

Music, Doring's band; prayer. Rev. Rufus W. Clark. D.D., of Albany, chaplain of 
the day; music; introductory address by president of the day. Governor Rice of 
Massachusetts; music; oration by ex-Gov. Horatio Seymour; music; oration by Hon. 
George William Curtis; poems by Gen. J. Watts De Peyster and Alfred B. Street; 
Fit?, Green Halleck's " Field of the Grounded Arms," read by Gen. James Grant 
Wilson; music; historical address by William L. Stone of New York city; short ad- 
dresses by Hon. Austin A. Yates of Schenectady, H. L. Gladding and others; grand 
banquet; closing with a brilliant military spectacle representing the surrender of 
Burgoyne's army. 



304 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

As this magnificent celebration was in commemoration of the most 
important battle ever fought on American soil, and as many of those 
who participated in the occasion have since died, we append a list of 
the officers and committees whose services contributed so largely to 
make the event so memorable: 

President of the day, Gov. Alexander H. Rice of Massachusetts; vice-presidents — 
Hon. George Bancroft, Washington, D. C. ; Hon. Charles O'Conor. William CuUen 
Bryant, Hon. Hamilton Fish, ex-Governor Hoffman, New York; Hon. Frederick 
De Peyster, president of the New York Historical Society; Hon. Ellis H. Roberts, 
Utica; E. F. De Lancey, Hon. A. S. Sullivan, Hon. George L. Schuyler, Hon. John 
Bigelow, New York; Benjamin H. Hall, Troy; Joel Munsell, Albany; John V. L. 
Pruyn, Albany; Giles B. Slocum, Trenton, Mich.; James McFarlane, Plainfield, 
New Jersey; William A. Thomas, Bergen, New Jersey; Mantou Marble, New 
\''ork ; Ethan Allen, New York; Hon. John H. Starin, Fultonville; Parker Handy, 
New York; John F. Seymour, Utica; E. H. Tenny, New York; Hon. B. W. Throck- 
morton, Bergen, N. J. ; S. G. Arnold, Newport, R.I ; Hon. E. A. Merritt, Newport, R. 
I. ; Hon. Hiland Hall, Bennington, Vt. ; C. M. Bliss, secretary Bennington Monument 
Association, Bennington, Vt. ; Hon. Henry G. Root, Bennington, Vt. ; Maj. A. B. 
Valentine, Bennington, Vt. ; Hon. M. S. Colburn, Manchester, Vt. ; e.x-Gov. John B. 
Page, Rutland, Vt. ; Lieut.-Gov. Redfield S. Proctor, Rutland, Vt. ; Lieut.-Gov. Ed- 
ward J. Phelps, Burlington, Vt. ; ex-Gov. John W. Stewart, Middlebury, Vt. ; Hon. 
Frederick E. Woodbridge, Vergennes; William H. Clement, Morrow, Ohio; Pres- 
ident Potter, Union College, Schenectady; Clarence Bate, Louisville. Ky. ; Col. John 
Hay. Cleveland, Ohio; Henry G. Burleigh, Whitehall. 

Saratoga County — Saratoga — R. English, H. Cramer, George Strover, H. Scid- 
more, E. Raymond, F. Dodd, F. K. Marshall, W. R. Clothier, P. Dennis, G. Wright. 
Rev. A. F. Bailey, Rev. D. K. Van Dorn, Rev. G. W. Dean, Rev. H. B. Finnegan, 
N. Bennett, J. Osborn. Saratoga Springs — Hon. James M. Marvin, Hon. Augustus 
Bockes, Hon. O. L. Barbour, Stephen H. Richards, Benjamin F. Judson, John W. 
Crane, Charles S. Lester, G. L. Ames, Gen. Joshua T. Blanchard. Ballston — George 
G. Scott. Neil Gilmour. Charlton— W. B. Consalus, F. D. Curtis. Clifton Park— J. 
Peck, Hiram Parker. Corinth — E. Edwards, N. M. Houghton. Day — L W. Guiles. 
E. Darling. Edinburgh — L Noyes, jr., Silas H. Torrey. Galway — Dr. Preston, L 
Brockett. Hadley — C. Rockwell, A. Palmer. Halfmoon — H. S. Sheldon, Ephraim 
D. Ellsworth, C. Clute. Malta — Captain John D. Rogers, J. Tripp. Milton — George 
West, Chauncey B. Kilmer, Henry Knickerbacker. Moreau — J. W. Shurter, W. A. 
Sherman. Northumberland — A. B. Baucus, A. L. Finnic, W. Tice, D. H. Deyoe, 
H. Thompson. Providence— W. B. Clark, P. Mead. Stillwater— G. W. Neilson, G. 
A. Ensign, L. Van Demark. Waterford— J. B. Enos, D. Lamb. Wilton— B. B. 
Grippen, C. Boyce. 

Washington County — Greenwich — R. H. Lowber, S. L. Stillman, Mr. Andrews. 
Easton— J. A. Van Schaiek, 1. Burton. E. W. Hollister. Fort Edward— J. E. King, 
S. McLean, A. O. Waite. Sandy Hill— J. Dwyer, A. L. Allen. Fort Ann— J. Hall. 
Whitehall— W. A. Wilkins, W. H, Teflft. Granville— R. C. Betts. Argyle— A. 
Barkley, H. Dodd. Hartford — M. J. Ingalsbee, J. M. Northup. Salem — J. Gibson, 
jr., S. W. Russell. Cambridge — J. S. Smart, H. Gordon. 



SARATOGA MONUMENT ASSOCIATION. 305 

Warren County— Olens Falls— T. S. Coolidge, W. W. Rockwell, I. Mott, H. M. 
Harris, N. Cole, M. B. Little, John Keenan, L. G. McDonald, Augustus Sherman, 
Jerry Finch. Luzerne — B. C. Butler. 

Rensselear County — Schaghticoke — J. A. Quackenbush, J. Knickerbacker. Troy 
— J. M. Francis, A. G. Johnson, J. B. Parmenter, E. L. Fursman, M. I. Townsend, 
Mayor Murphy, I. McConihe, J. J. Filkins. 

Albany County — Albany— Mayor Banks, J. W. Smith, C. E. .Smith, A. A. Keyes, 
L. Thompson. Cohoes — C. H. Adams, D. J. John.son. 

Schenectady County — C, Sanford, e.K-Mayor Hunter. 

Montgomery County — Charles R. Winegar, Adam W. Kline, Frothingham Fish. 

Clinton County — Smith M. Weed. 

Secretaries — William L. Stone, secretary Monument Association, New York ; Da- 
vid F. Ritchie, A. S. Pease, E. J. Huling, of Saratoga Springs; H. L. Grose and W. 
S. Waterbury of Ballston Spa; R. L. Palmateer of Waterford; II. C. Morehouse of 
Greenwich; H. D. Morris of Salem; H. T. Blanchard of Fort Edward; J, L. McAr- 
thur of Granville; J. H. Cushman of Bennington. 

Grand Marshal — Gen. Winsor B. French, Saratoga Springs. 

Assistant Marshals — Gen. Dickerman of Albany, Gen. Carr of Troy, Gen. Charles 
Hughes of Sandy Hill, Capt. James M. Andrews, jr.. and Capt. A. A. Patterson of 
Saratoga Springs, Capt. George Rohinson of Schuylerville, Capt. Thomas of Still- 
water, Dr. Gray of Greenwich. 

Committees — Reception, N. C. Harris, N. J. Seelye, O. Brisbin, F. Gow, H. A. 
McRae; music, C. M. Dennis, S. R. Lawrence, J. T. Smith, J. O. Hannum; finance, 
S. Sheldon, G. F. Watson, W. H. Smith, A. M. Greene. H. C. Holmes, S. Thorn, S. 
F. Brott. J. Billings, jr., J. R. Deyoe; entertainment, E. Doohttle, J. H. DeRidder, 
R. N. Atwell, C. E. Ingerson, E. C. Bullard, M. Grippin; transportation, J. H. Dill- 
ingham, T. Toohey, G. H. Bennett. C. E. Washburn ; decoration. G. P. Laing, R. 
W. Rice, I. Whitman, F. McNaughton, B. J. Bristol; military, D. S. Potter, A. 
Welch, J. S. Dillenbeck, C. H. McNaughton, S. McCreedy. S. Wheeler; grounds 
and battlefield arrangements, W. P. Ostrander, W. P. Finch, H. Marshall, C. Win- 
ney, D. Craw; auditing, D. Dean, R. Sutfin, T. Sweet; printing, R. Mingay, jr., 
Charles F. Paul, C. L. Atwell, E. M. Carhart. 

SARATOGA MONUMENT ASSOCIATION. 

On October 17, 1850, the seventy-ninth anniversary of Burgoyne's 
surrender to General Gates, John A. Corey, George Strover and other 
patriotic gentlemen met at the old Schuyler mansion' in Schuylerville 

^ This famous house stands at the southern limit of Schuylerville on the bank of Fish creek. 
An uncle of General Schuyler's settled at Schuylerville quite early in the eighteenth century and 
erected some mills. Some time prior to 1767, General Philip Schuyler came into possession of the 
estate. At his death it fell to his brother John, from whom it passed to the latter's son Philip, a 
nephew of the general. Philip becoming financially involved, the mansion and a large farm sur- 
rounding it was sold by his assignee to Colonel George Strover, a former agent of Schuyler, who 
resided on the place for many years. Burgoyne used this house for his headquarters after the 
retreat from Bemis Heights, and a few days after it was burned by his own orders. The present 
house was erected either shortly after the surrender in 1777, or the peace of 1783, according to 
different writers. It stantls a short distance west of the former mansion. It contains many in- 
teresting relics. 
20 



306 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and discussed the preliminary steps necessary to the org-anization of a 
society which should have in view the erection of a battle monument 
on the site of the famous battles of Saratoga. The result of the meet- 
ing was the organization, in 1859, by Hamilton Fish, Horatio Seymour, 
John A. Corey, Peter Gansevoort and others of the Saratoga Monument 
Association, under a perpetual charter from the State of New York, 
Whose object was the erection of a fitting memorial on the site of Bur- 
goyne's surrender. The original board consisted of the following per- 
manent trustees or directors : Colonel George Strover, William Wilcox 
and Henry Holmes of Saratoga; Hon. James M. Marvin, John A. 
Corey and James M. Cook of Saratoga Springs; Leroy Mowry and Asa 
C. Tefft of Washington county; Peter Gansevoort of Albany; Hamil- 
ton Fish of New York; Philip Schuyler of Westchester county ; George 
W. Blecker of Brooklyn, and Hon. Horatio Seymour of Utica. In 1860 
Mr. Blecker died, and Benson J. Lossing, the historian, was elected to 
fill the place. The first officers, chosen soon after the incorporation of 
the association, were: President, Hamilton Fish of New York; vice- 
president, Philip Schuyler of Pelham; treasurer, James M. Marvin of 
Saratoga Springs; corresponding secretary, John Romeyn Brodhead 
of New York; secretary, John A. Corey of Saratoga Springs; trustees, 
Horatio Seymour, Utica; Benson J. Lossing, Poughkeepsie ; Peter 
Gansevoort, Albany; James M. Cook, Ballston Spa; Edward C. Dela- 
van, Ballston Centre; WiUiam Wilcox, Schuylerville; Henry Holmes, 
Cornith; Asa C. Tefft, Fort Miller, and Leroy Mowry, Greenwich. 

The work of the association was interrupted by the Civil war, and it 
was not until 1872 that operations were resumed. The Legislature, on 
April 30, 1873, through the exertions of Mr. Corey, amended the sec- 
tion of the charter naming the board of trustees to read as follows: 

The first board of trustees shall consist of Hamilton Fish and William L. Stone 
of the city of New York; Horatio Seymour of Utica; Benson J. Lossing of Pough- 
keepsie; Asa C. Tefift of the town of Fort Edward; Leroy Mowry of the town of 
Greenwich ; James M. Marvin and John A. Corey of Saratoga Springs, and Dr. 
Charles H. Payn of Saratoga. 

In 1874 the Legislature voted an appropriation of fifty thousand dol- 
lars, with the proviso that the proposed monument should cost not less 
than two hundred thousand dollars, nor more than five hundred thou- 
sand dollars, the sum appropriated to be paid after all other subscrip- 
tions had reached a sufficient sum, with the amount specified, to com- 
plete the monument upon plans to be submitted to and approved by 



SARATOGA MONUMENT ASSOCIATION. 307 

the governor and comptroller ot the State of New York. But two 
years elapsed and the work upon the monument had not been begun, 
and, according to law, the appropriation by the Legislature lapsed. 
The Legislature of 1877 appropriated ten thousand dollars to enable 
the association to build the foundation and celebrate the laying of the 
corner stone, but Governor Robinson vetoed the measure. The asso- 
ciation then raised, by popular subscription, sufficient to proceed with 
the work of laying the corner stone, which was done with appropriate 
ceremonies on October 17, 1877, the one hundredth anniversary of the 
surrender of General Burgoyne. The Grand Lodge of the State of 
New York, F. & A. M., conducted the exercises of laying the stone. 
A procession two miles in length — the most magnificent, civic. Masonic 
and military pageant ever witnessed in Northern New York, marched 
to the site of the monument where, in the presence of forty thousand 
people, the corner stone was laid by the grand master of the Grand 
Lodge, J. J. Crouch. 

Exercises of a high and most impressive character followed. These 
included music; the reading by Colonel E. P. Howe of a poem written 
by Alfred B. Street; the reading by William L. Stone, secretary of the 
monument association, of "The Star Spangled Banner," arranged for 
the anniversary of Burgoyne'ssurrender by Colonel B. O. Butler; prayers 
by Rev. Rufus W. Clark, D. D., of Albany, and Rev. F. E. King of 
Fort Edward ; the reading by Colonel D. F. Ritchie of letters from 
Benson J. Lossing, Mrs. Ellen Hardin Walworth, Giles B. Slocum, and 
General Stephen D. Kirk of Charleston, S. C. ; and eloquent addresses 
by ex-Governor Horatio Seymour, Hon. George William Curtis, Hon. 
Charles S. Lester, Hon. Lafayette S. Foster, Hon. George W. Schuyler, 
William L. Stone, Hon. B. W. Throckmorton, of New Jersey, Hon. 
A. A. Yates, H. L. Gladding, Hon. Algernon S. Sullivan and Edgar 
L. Fursman; the reading by General James Grant Wilson of Fitz Green 
Halleck's " Field of the Grounded Arms;" the reading by Rev. J. R. 
Van Doren of an ode by General J. Watts de Peyster; the exercises 
concluding with a brilliant military spectacle representing the surrender 
of Burgoyne's army. 

The monument was built after a design submitted by J. C. Markham. 
The association obtained two appropriations — $15,000 and $10,000 — 
from the State Legislature through the efforts of Charles S. Lester and 
Delcour S. Potter; $;30,000 from Congress through the efforts of Hon. 
John H. Starin, then president of the association; and finally $40,000 



308 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

more from Congress through the efforts of Hon. Edward Wemple, M. 
C, Hon. John H. Starin, Algernon S. Sullivan, S. S. Cox and George 
William Curtis, a total of $95,000. The entire cost of the structure was 
about $125,000. 

The monument, which is of rock- faced New London granite, and is 
one hundred and fifty-four feet high, stands on a high bluff nearly three 
hundred feet above and overlooking the Hudson, thus giving it an 
actual height above the river level of about four hundred and fifty feet. 
In its base there is a room fourteen feet square, with entrances on each 
of the four sides. From this room a bronze staircase leads to the top, 
from which is seen the whole region of country between Lake George 
on the northeast, the Green mountains on the east, and the Catskills on 
the south. The entrances at the base are about fourteen feet in height 
and have double doors of oak with plate glass windows and brass trim- 
mings. On the second floor there is a niche on each side of the monu- 
ment for a statue. Over the entrance gables rise to a height of forty- 
two feet, and at each corner of the monument, at a height of about 
twenty feet, a granite eagle with half-folded wings, measuring about 
seven feet across the back, has been placed. The cornices of each of 
the doors and windows are supported by pillars of polished black gran- 
ite from Maine, with carved capitals. There are forty pillars in all. 

On the four corners of the platform are mounted four of the large, 
ornamental bronze cannon taken from the English at the time of sur- 
render. Of the large niches in the four gables, three are filled with ap- 
propriate groups of sculpture, representing the three generals, Schuy- 
ler, Gates and Morgan, with their accessories, the fourth being vacant, 
with the name of Arnold inscribed underneath. The historic scenes 
represented by tablets in the interior of the monument, are sixteen in 
number, as follows: 

1. Women of the Revolution. 3. Ladies of the British Court. 3. The Town 
Meeting. 4. The Rally. 5. George IIL in Council. 6. Burgoyne Addressing the 
Indians. 7. The Wives of British Officers, in Their Caloches, Traveling Through 
the Wilderness. 8. Schuyler Felling Trees to Obstruct the Enemy's March. 9. Mrs. 
Schuyler Firing Her Wheat Fields. 10. The Murder of Jane McCrea. 11. Bur- 
goyne Reprimanding His Indian Allies for Their Barbarities. 12. Schuyler Trans- 
ferring His Command to Gates. 13 The Passage in a Boat of Lady Ackland to the 
American Camp. 14. The Wounding of Arnold at Breyman's Redoubt. 15. The 
Burial of General Frazer. 16. Burgoyne Surrendering His Sword to Gates. 

In the autumn of 1887 the monument was struck by lightning. The 
heavy cap-stone was lifted from its place and carried a short distance 



IMPORTANT EVENTS. 309 

from the base of the monument, and for about seven feet below the cap- 
stone the structure was shattered ; but fortunately the damage did not 
reach lower down. 

OTHER IMPORTANT EVENTS. 

The dedication of the soldiers' and sailors' monument at Ballston Spa, 
June l-i, 1888, called out a large concourse of people. This monument, 
which stands at the foot of Low street, facing Front street, was erected 
by the citizens of Ballston, Milton and Malta in the memory of the 
soldiers and sailors from those towns who served in the Revolutionary 
war, the war of 1812, the Mexican war and the war of the Rebellion. 

In 1886 the members of Post McKittrick, G. A. R., began the work 
of interesting the public in a plan for the erection of this memorial. 
December 27, 1886, a committee was appointed to solicit subscriptions, 
devise plans, etc. This committee consisted of George D. Story, 
George W. McCreedy, Martin Lee, J. Boocock, George F. Foster, J. 
Hegeman, John Mitchell, J. M. Wood, Charles Massey, H. White, rep- 
resenting the veterans, and George West, Arnold Harris, Dr. Leverett 
Moore, Chauncey Kilmer, Jesse S. L'Amoreaux, George L. Thompson, 
Stephen C. Medbery, Charles O. McCreedy, James W. Verbeck and 
James L. Scott, representing the citizens of Ballston Spa. Stephen C. 
Medbury, then president of the village, cooperated actively in the 
work, and Hon. George West contributed $550 to the expense of the 
monument. The monument as completed is of Barre granite — a shaft 
surmounted by the figure of a Union soldier with his gun at rest. 

At the unveiling and dedication, June 14, 1888, Albert J. Reid was 
the grand marshal of the parade which formed an interesting feature 
of the exercises. The procession was formed as follows : 

Saratoga Citizens Corps (Twenty-second Separate Company), under Captain R. C. 
McEwen; General Daniel Butterfield of New York and staff; Maschke's Cadet band 
of Troy; Troy Citizens Corps, Captain J.W. Cusack commanding; Frederick Town- 
send camp. Sons of Veterans, of Albany, George W. Addington commanding; Lew- 
Benedict Post, G. A. R., of Albany, Major James MacFarlane commanding; Lyons 
Post, G. A. R., of Cohoes, J. W. Ablett commanding; Luther W. Wheeler Post, 
G. A. R., of Saratoga, Charles H. Hodges commanding; Rice Post, G. A. R., of 
Corinth, A. C. Hickok commanding; Cormth band; Thurlow Weed Post, G. A. R. , 
of Albany; Tibbits Post, G. A. R., of Troy, C. A. Frink commanding; Carlin Post 
of Sandy Hill; A. Walton Camp, Sons of Veterans, Schenectady; Colonel E. E. Ells- 
worth Post, G. A. R., of Mechanicville. Samuel Reid commanding; Lew O. Morris 
Post, G. A. R., of Albany, A. H. Spier commanding; Horsfall Post, G. A. R., of 
Schenectady, George W. Marlette commanding; Excelsior Cadets of Ballston Spa, 



810 OUR COUN'TY Al^D ITS PEOPLE. 

Edward J. Sweeney commanding; civic organizations from Ballston Spa, Mechanic- 
ville, Victory Mills, Saratoga Springs, Greenwich, Glens Falls and Troy. 

The column formed on High street, at the head of Bath street, and 
marched over High to Pleasant, to Milton avenue, and countermarched 
on Milton avenue to Front street, thence to the monument. 

The ceremony of unveiling the monument began at 2 p. m. from a 
platform, on the Sans Souci grounds. Keller's American Hymn was 
rendered by the musical association, led by Prof. Van Olinda of Troy. 
Prayer was offered by Rev. W. T. C. Hanna, pastor of the Baptist 
church of Ballston Spa. William H. Morse then unveiled the monu- 
ment, immediately after which a large number of young girls rendered 
the " Star Spangled Banner." William J. Parkinson, president of the 
day, made the introductory address, following which General Daniel 
Butterfield of New York delivered the historical address. General 
Newton M. Curtis of Ogdensburg followed with a brief address. Letters 
of regret were then read from Hon. George West, Colonel Frederick 
D. Grant, General William T. Sherman, General Abner Doubleday, 
Hon. Warner Miller and Captain W. W. French. The exercises were 
concluded by the reading, by John Person, of a poem written by Fred- 
erick Emerson Brooks of San Francisco. 

The year 1885 was marked by the death, in Saratoga county, of the 
illustrious warrior and statesman, General Ulysses S. Grant. The 
house in which General Grant died was owned by Joseph W. Drexel, a 
wealthy New York banker, which its owner gladly gave up to the use 
of the illustrious sufferer and his family when his physicians decided 
that he could seek relief in mountain air on the approach of hot weather 
in the city. It stands near the top of Mount McGregor, about twelve 
miles north of Saratoga Springs. 

General Grant had been ill for several months at his residence in 
New York. June 16 was fixed tipon as the day of his removal. His 
death occurred on the morning of July 23, 1885. The last days of this 
great American are thus described by one of General Grant's biog- 
raphers:' 

When he came out to enter his carriage that beautiful June day, he was like a 
man walking toward his open grave. . . . The day after Grant's arrival at 
Mount McGregor was made memorable by a significant message. After returning 
from a walk which he seemed to enjoy. Grant grew restless and unaccountable in 
action. He moved to and fro in the cottage as if seeking something, and at last, by 

' Hamlin Garland, in McClure's Magazine for May, 1898. 



DEATH OF GENERAL GRANT. Sll 

signs, he made known his wish for pencil and paper. Being furnished therewith, 
he sat writing busily for some time, and then handed two letters to Colonel Grant. 
One was addressed to Dr. Douglas; the other one bore the superscription: " Mem- 
oranda for ray family." 

There was something ominous in his action, and the son tore open the letter in 
anxiety. It was a message of death. "I feel that I am failing," he had written; 
and then passed on to certain things which he wished taken care of after his 
death. . . . 

The days that followed were simply days of pain and great endurance as his life 
forces slowly ebbed away. Occasionally he hobbled out into the sunshine on the 
piazza, but for the most part he kept to his chair and mused m statue-like immo- 
bility on incommunicable themes. 

People from the surrounding country came in procession past the cottage, eager 
to catch a glimpse of the most renowned man of his time. The railway brought 
other swarms of curious or sympathetic tourists, and they stole near and gazed 
silently upon the dying man, and then moved on. . . . 

He continued to work a little on his book, for it was conceded that it could do him 
no harm and might relieve his suffering. The Fourth of July was a great anniver- 
sary for him. On that day he had won Vicksburg. . . . 

A few days later there came to Mount McGregor a company of Mexican journal- 
ists, and, though suffering with special acuteness that day, the General welcomed 
them gladly. He received them in unwilling silence (for he could not even whisper). 
. . . About this time General Simon Buckner paid a visit to his old classmate and 
conqueror. . . . 

On the 22d of July he expressed a wish to be in bed. His bones were intolerably 
weary of the chair in which he had spent night and day during months of ceaseless 
suffering. The physicians looked at each other significantly. He was transferred to 
his bed, and as he stretched out his tired limbs and lay full length at last, he drew a 
sigh of relief and smiled. A deep, untroubled sleep fell upon him almost at once, 
but the physicians read the advance of death in the labored breathing and fluttering 
pulse. The family at last were all there. The loyal wife sat often by his side, where 
she could touch his face and press his hand. His oldest son, erect, calm and 
soldierly, scarcely relaxed his painful vigil. It was a long and terrible watch, and 
when midnight came, it was evident that death was present in the room at last. The 
great soldier lay in a doze which was the lethargy of dissolution, but still responded 
to the agonized words of love from his wife and daughter by opening his eyes in a 
peculiarly clear, wide penetrating glance. . . . All danger of a violent death 
was over. He was passing peacefully away, his face calm and unlined by pain. 
His body, wasted and grave-weary, composed itself for final rest. The coldness 
crept slowly but inexorably toward the faintly-beating heart. The birds sang out- 
side, and the sun rose, warming the earth, but no waking and no warmth came to 
The Great Commander lying so small and weak beneath his coverlet. 

At seven minutes past eight, in the full flush of a glorious morning, he drew a 
deeper breath, and then uttered a long, gentle sigh, like one suddenly relieved of a 
painful burden. In the hush which followed, the watchers waited for the next 
breath. It did not come. The doctor stole softly to the bedside, and listened ; then 
rose and said in a low voice: " It is all over." 

Ulysses Grant was dead. 



312 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

A legal trial of unusual interest occurred at Ballston Spa in Jul}-, 
1889, when Arthur J. McOuade, an alderman of the city of New York, 
was placed on trial on the charge of having received money from the 
Broadway Surface Railway company of New York in consideration for 
voting to grant a franchise to that company. Governor David B. Hill 
appointed an extra Court of Oyer and Terminer for the trial of the 
action, the venue having been removed to Saratoga county on the plea 
that a fair trial could not be obtained in New York county. The court 
convened July 9, Hon. Charles Daniels of Buffalo presiding. The 
prosecuting attorneys were John R. Fellows, district attorney of New 
York county, McKenzie Semple, assistant district attorney of New 
York county, and Theodore F. Hamilton, then district attorney of 
Saratoga county. The defense was conducted by Jesse S. L'Amoreaux 
of Ballston Spa, John Foley and James W. Houghton of Saratoga 
Springs, and Hon. Edgar L. Fursman of Troy. One hundred and four 
jurors were called and examined before the twelve required were se- 
cured. The names of those finally accepted were: Piatt Mulford, 
David B. Eggleston, Enos Jerome, James Gellan, Adam Phin, Frank 
D. Roods, John Devereux, Charles Pitts, Wallace R. Clayton, Henry 
D, Kellogg, Truman A. Kelso and John H. Allen. District Attorney 
Fellows summed up the case for the people, and Hon. Edgar L. Furs- 
man summed up for the defense. These are said to have been two of 
the most eloquent pleas ever heard within the halls of justice in Sara- 
toga county. The trial resulted in a victory for the defense and the 
acquittal of McQuade. It cost about $3,000, the expenses being paid 
by New York county. 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 313 



CHAPTER XIV. 

The War With Spain, and the Participation of Saratoga County Therein — Enlist- 
ment of the Twenty-second Separate Company of Saratoga Springs — Assigned to 
the Second New York Provisional Regiment — Its Gradual Movement to Hempstead 
Plains, L. I.. Thence to Chickamauga Park and Tampa, Fla — Promotions in the 
Regiment — Those Who Volunteered — Others from This County Who Volunteered in 
Other Commands — Relief Measures — The One Hundred and Twenty-second Sepa- 
rate Company. 

While the country was recovering from the disastrous effects of the 
financial and industrial panic which began in 1893 and left a depressed 
condition in the business world for nearly half a dozen years, it was 
suddenly plunged into a war with Spain as the result of American in- 
terference in behalf of the patriots of Cuba who had been fighting for 
indpendence from the Spanish crown since February, 1895. From the 
early days of the Cuban revolution filibustering expeditions had fre- 
quently left the shores of the United States, the Cuban Junta in New 
York in this way furnishing the revolutionists with arms, ammunition 
and other stores necessary for the continuance of the struggle and the 
success of Cuban arms. The United States government did everything 
in its power to prevent the sailing of these numerous expeditions. It 
dispatched armed vessels to suspected rendezvous, and on numerous 
occasions, in its efforts to prevent Americans or others who found a 
shelter in this country from violating the laws of nations, it prevented, 
by force, the sailing of these expeditions, even arresting and imprison- 
ing some of the filibusters. 

But Spain was not satisfied with the efforts of this country and 
accused America of duplicity. Gradually the relations between the 
two countries became more strained. In the winter of 1897-98 Senor 
Dupuy De Lome, the .Spanish ambassador to the United States, inju- 
diciously gave expression to his personal opinions and ideas in an un- 
diplomatic manner, and was recalled. In the meantime Congress had 
been considering the question of Cuban independence. Finally, in 
April, 1898, that body decided upon intervention in behalf of the 
Cubans, and President McKinley issued a dispatch recalling Gen. 



314 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Stewart L. Woodford, our ambassador at Madrid. Through an act of 
Spanish treachery the Spanish government was made aware of the con- 
tents of the note to Ambassador Woodford before it was transmitted to 
him, and, to circumvent the United States government, it thereby 
gave to Senor Palo de Bernabe, De Lome's successor at Washington, a 
chance to resign before Woodford could be recalled. This incident 
nerved each country up to a highly excited state, and each considered 
the action of the other tantamount to a declaration of war. 

Acting upon the assumption that Spain, by her treacherous and un- 
friendly act, had practically declared war. President McKinley acted 
quickly. Havana and other ports on the north coast of Cuba were de- 
clared to be blockaded and our navy began seizing prizes flying the 
Spanish flag. Soon a formal declaration of war was made by our gov- 
ernment. The national troops were mobilized at points on or near the 
Atlantic seaboard and gulf coast, a portion of our navy was dispatched 
to Cuban waters, the squadron under command of Commodore Dewey 
was sent from Hong Kong to the Philippine Islands, and, on April 23, 
President McKinley issued a call for 135,000 volunteers. The call read 
as follows: 

l!y l/ie President of the United States. 

A PROCLAMATION. 

Whereas, By a joint resolution of Congress approved on the twentieth day of 
April, 1898, entitled "Joint re.solution for the recognition of the independence of the 
people of Cuba, demanding that the government of Spain rehnquish its authority 
and government in the island of Cuba, and withdraw its land and naval forces from 
Cuba and Cuban waters, and directing the President of the United States to use the 
land and naval forces of the United States to carry this resolution into effect," and 

Whereas, By an act of Congress entitled '• An act to provide for temporarily in- 
creasing the military establishment of the United States in time of war and for other 
purposes," approved April 23, 1898, the President is authorized, in order to raise a 
volunteer army, to issue his proclamation calling for volunteers to serve in the Army 
of the United States: 

Now, therefore, I, William McKinley, President of the United States, by virtue 
of the power vested in me by the Constitution and the laws, and deeming sufficient 
occasion to exist, have thought fit to call forth, and hereby do call forth, volunteers 
to the aggregate number of 125,000, in order to carry into effect the purpose of the 
said resolution; the same to be apportioned, as far as practicable, among the several 
States and Territories and the District of Columbia, according to population, and to 
serve two years, unless sooner discharged. The details for this object will be im- 
mediately communicated to the proper authorities through the War Department. 

In witness whereof , I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United 
States to be affixed. 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 315 

Done at the city of Washington this twenty-third day of April, A. D. 1898, and of 
the independence of the United States the one hundred and twenty-second. 

William McKiniky. 
By the President; 

John Siier.man, Secretary of State. 

These troops were immediately recruited from the ranks of the Na- 
tional Guard organizations of the various States of the Union. New 
York's quota was about 12,000 men. The Twenty-second Separate 
company, New York National Guard, otherwise known as the Saratoga 
Citizens Corps, was assigned as one of the twelve companies which 
formed the Second Provisional New York Regiment. In the organiza- 
tion of this regiment James W. Lester, captain of the Twenty-second 
Separate company, was promoted to the office of major of the Third 
Battalion of the regiment. Amos W. Rich, first lieutenant of the com- 
pany, was subsequently elected to the captaincy. 

Monday, May 2, 1898, the company left the armory soon after 6 a. m., 
headed by Major Lester and Captain Rich, and marched to the depot 
under the escort of the veterans of Post Wheeler, G. A. R., other vet- 
erans and citizens, village officials, the staff of the Citizens Corps, the 
veterans of the Citizens Corps and the Jeffersonian club, headed by the 
Seventy-seventh Regitnent band. The departure of the company was 
described in these words by the Saratogian of that date: 

While the spectators thronged the line of march and in.spected the marching 
bodies with curiosity and the veterans with the admiration that was due their past, 
still the thoughts of all were on the citizen soldiers in the rear, who were voluntarily 
answering their country's call and going to the front. 

Never before probably was there such a jam of people at the Delaware and Hud- 
son depot. Every inch of platform surface had a covering of jostling, pushing, 
struggling humanity. The Corps reached the depot just previous to the arrival of 
the train that was to take them on the way southward. The thought that the im- 
mediate destination of the troops was only Hempstead, Long Island, did not allay 
the fears of the multitude and the good-byes were just as fervent and demonstrative 
as if the boys were going directly to Cuba. The crowd wag so dense that the sol- 
diers had to cut their way through the depot platform to reach the cars. The train 
from the north with the Whitehall and Glens Falls companies had to plow its way 
through the crowd that blocked both sides of the track. Groups of young men gath- 
ered on the tops of the cars and looked down on the sea of faces, the scene being 
illuminated by flags and bunting galore. 

The Seventy-seventh Regiment band played patriotic airs as the parade ap- 
proache 1 the station, but the din at the depot drowned out many of the notes of the 
musicians. "Union Forever" and " Way Down in Dixie" were readily recognized 
during the intervals when the atmosphere was not surcharged with explosions of fire- 



316 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

■works and artillery. High above the cheers and the clamor and the powder crackers 
was heard the detonating and reverberating discharges of the artillery. The armory 
cannon had been transferred to Franklin Square, and in charge of Clarence Fish, 
who had also fired the rewille, did thundering work. The concussion of the cannon 
shattered probably fifteen large windows in the United States hotel. The cost and 
trouble of replacing these will be a substantial contribution to patriotism. 

Eyes which on these gala occasions have gleamed with joy were dimmed with 
tears. There were cheers and noise, it is true, but there was also an undercurrent 
of regret, for in a town of this size, eighty-four men of the kind to volunteer their 
services must be missed. 

The stay at the depot seemed all too short. At seventeen minutes of seven o'clock 
the Saratoga cars were switched across Washington street and joined to the cars 
from the north, and the gaily decorated locomotive was soon disappearing m the dis- 
tance, while the band struck up the historic but always appropriate refrain of " The 
Girl I Left Behind Me." The girl tearfully wended her way homeward and commit- 
ted her love to the mercies of the God of battles. A firing squad of twelve sturdy veter- 
ans under command of R. S. Remington fired three salutes at the speeding train. 
The cannon roared a good-bye. Nine locomotives at the round house emitted a 
valedictory, as their whistles blew until a pressure of from 80 to 120 pounds of steam 
was e.xhausted. Railroad torpedoes punctured the engines' blasts, and the train was 
lost in a cloud of steam and smoke as the reverberating echoes of a glorious good-bye 
lingered in the ears of Saratoga's volunteers. 

The company, with the Ninth of Whitehall and the Eighteenth of 
Glens Falls, proceeded to Troy, where they were joined by the other 
companie.s comprising the regiment, and all proceeded to Camp Black, 
at Hempstead Plains, Long Island. The Twenty-second Separate 
company, when it left Saratoga Springs, was constituted as follows: 

Captain — Amos C. Rich. 

First Lieutenant — John A. Schwarte. 

Second Lieutenant — Obed M. Coleman. 

Quartermaster-Sergeant — Charles M. Dobbin. 

Corporals — John K. Walbridge, Fred E. Calkins, Lynn K. Kich, Jesse S, Morris, 
Fred L. Pennoyer, Frank G. Ritchie. 

Musicians — Robbin Mingay, Louis J. Follett .** 

Privates— John X. A'Hearn, Edwin M. Arnold,* Frank A. Kurd, George P. Ban- 
nister, jr., Joseph P. Brennan, Charles A. Baker, John Burt, Joseph H. Blichfeldt, 
Fred A. Brazee,* Bert A. Burrows,* Stanley J. Bush.* Foster K. Carpenter,* 
Frank J. Clements, George L Clements, Thomas C. Coleman, Townsend, 
J. Durkee, Elmer E. Durkee, Raymon E. Dennin,* George H. Dowd, J. Rem- 
sen Ditmars,* Fred W. Dunson,* Walter J. Flynn,* George E. Foster, Winsor P. 
French, Benedict D. Gerberg, Charles W. Gibbs,* Albert M. Greenough,* Edwin P. 
Hays, Fred P. Heminway, Arthur E. Hope, Rockwell P. Holden,** George W. 
Heaslip,* George W. Ingalls, William P. Kinns,* Charles T. Lockhart, William H. 
Lee,* Joseph Monahan,* Edward A. Mabie,* James H. McGhan,* Harry J. Morris, 
James F. Miner,* Harry J. Olmsted, Samuel Ostrander.* Fred C. Paul,** Ernest L. 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 317 

Potter,* Robertson Parker, Fred Reagan, George Ramsey, Fred A. Russell,** Wil 
son A. Sawyer,* George P. Smith, William J. Searing, George Schmidt, Henry E 
Starks, Alfred G. Schwarte. John H. Squires, James F. Swartvvout, jr.,* Harry E 
Simpson,* Edgar H. Spaulding,* Earl St. John,* James J. Sweeney,* William F, 
Town, Hiram C. Todd, Harry F. Thomas, Henry Wildy,* George M. Welsh,* Will 
iara H. Waterbury, Benjamin K. Walbridge, James W. Whitney, Fred W. Wells 
William F. Winchester,* Orville E. Wells.* 

* Recruits, 30. ** E.\-members, 4. 

Soon after reaching Camp Black the company with the balance of 
the Second Regiment, was mustered into the service of the United 
States for the term of two years, unless sooner discharged. The 
Twenty-second Separate Company was designated as Company L. May 
16 the Third Battalion, composed of men froin the Forty-sixth, Thirty- 
first, Thirtieth and TIiirt3'-seventh, designated respectively as Com- 
panies H, G, E and F, were mustered in, and Maj. Austin A Yates of 
Schenectady was mustered in and placed in command of them; after 
which the companies composed of men from the Eighteenth, Thirty- 
second, Twenty-second and Ninth, designated respectively as Compan- 
ies K, M, L and I, were mustered in, and Maj. James W. Lester of 
Saratoga Springs was mustered in and placed in command. Part of 
the other battalion being absent on provost guard duty, only two com- 
panies from it were mustered in, viz., the vSeventh and Twenty-first, 
designated respectively as Companies B and D. Lieut-Col. James H. 
Lloyd of Troy was mustered in and placed in command of the ten com- 
panies. May 17 the companies composed of men from the Twelfth 
and Sixth, designated Companies C and A, were mustered in, after 
which the regiment was formed in line of masses and the oath was 
administered to Col. E. E. Hardin, who was placed in command. 

No change was made in the officers of the regiment as they came 
from their home stations except in the following cases: Lieut. B. L. 
Aldrich of Company K was not mustered in, owing to his physical con- 
dition ; Lieut. Michael iSullivan of Company D was mustered in in 
place of Lieut. Sylvester W. Wright; Quartermaster-Sergeant Chester 
D. Wager of the Twenty-first Separate Company was not mustered in ; 
First Lieutenant John ,8. Wilson, who was appointed assistant surgeon of 
the regiment, resigned to accept the position of surgeon of the Twenty- 
second Regiment, New York Volunteers. 

The officers of the regiment and the companies constituting it at this 
time were as follows: 

Colonel, Edward E. Hardin, Seventh U. S. Infantry; lieutenant-colonel, James H. 



318 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Lloyd (Troy), Thirteenth Battalion, N.G.N.Y. ; major, James W. Lester (Saratoga 
Springs), Fourteenth Battalion, N.G.N.Y.; major, Austin A. Yates (Schenectady), 
Fifteenth Battalion. N.G.N.Y.; surgeon, Lewis Balch (Albany), major and acting 
assistant surgeon general; chaplain. Hector Hall, D.D. (Troy); adjutant, James J. 
Phelan (Troy), adjutant Thirteenth Battalion, N.G.N.Y. ; quartermaster, George M. 
Alden (Troy), qurtermaster Thirteenth Battalion, N.G.N.Y.; sergeant-major, W. 
Swift Martin (Troy), Sixth Separate Company, N.G.N.Y. 

Thirteen/h Battalion.— Com^a.\iy B (Seventh Separate Company, Cohoes); Cap- 
tain, T. Campbell Collin; first lieutenant, John J. McGaffin ; second lieutenant. Ed- 
ward J. White. Company C (Twelfth Separate Company, Troy): Captain. John P. 
Treanor; first lieutenant, Rufus M. Townsend; second lieutenant, William Baker. 
Company D (Twenty-first Separate Company, Troy): Captain, Merrill M. Duns- 
paugh ; first lieutenant, William J. Gilbraith; second lieutenant, Michael Sullivan. 
Company A (Sixth Separate Company, Troy): Captain, E. Courtland Gale; first lieu- 
tenant, Henry P. Sherman ; second lieutenant, Carroll L. Maxcy. 

Fourteenth Battalion, Major James W. Lester commanding. — Company K 
(Eighteenth Separate Company, Glens Falls); Captain, Loyal L. Davis; first lieu- 
tenant, Seldon W. Mott. Company I (Ninth Separate Company, Whitehall): Cap- 
tain, Ernest A. Grenough; first lieutenant, Emmet J. Gray; second lieutenant, 
Alanson D. Bartholomew. Company M (Thirty-second Separate Company, Hoosick 
Falls): Captain, Frank L. Stevens; first lieutenant, Walter A. Wood, jr.; second 
lieutenant, Louis E. Potter. Company L (Twenty-second Separate Company, Sara- 
toga Springs): Captain, Amos C. Rich; first lieutenant, John A. Schwarte; second 
lieutenant, Obed M. Coleman. 

Fifteenth Battalion, Major Austin A. Yates commandmg. — Company H (Forty- 
sixth Separate Company, Amsterdam): Captain, Darwin E. Vunk ; first lieutenant, 
George Hughes; second lieutenant, Daniel Masten. Company F (Thirty-seventh 
Separate Company, Schenectady): Captain, Frank Bander; first lieutenant, George 
M. Crippen; second lieutenant. Albert Wells. Company G (Thirty-first Separate 
Company, Mohawk): Captain, Horatio P. Witherstine; first lieutenant. Delos M. 
Dodge; second lieutenant, Wilbur Eddy. Company E (Thirty-sixth Separate Com- 
pany, Schenectady): Captain, J. M. Andrews, jr.; first lieutenant, George De B. 
Greene; second lieutenant, Donald Hutton. 

A number of the volunteers of the regiment failed to meet the re- 
quirements of the severe examinations of the surgeons at Camp Black, 
and were sent home on account of disability. Those from the Saratoga 
company who failed to pass this severe physical test were Privates 
Sawyer, Welsh, Clements, Blichfeldt, Wells, Heaslip, Durkee, Reagan 
and Hope. Subsequently the ranks of the company were filled by the 
following recruits. 

Howard C. Jamieson, Fredrick P. McNair. William H. Wells, Arthur J. Case, Don 
Agard Epier, James H. Gillis, Walter H. McNaughton, Charles G. Fryer, Thomas 
R. Pierce, Oscar Welch and George Ross. 

Subsequently the following members of the new One Hundred and 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 31.9 

Twenty-second Separate Company were sent to the front to help com- 
plete the regiment: 

Philip Reilly, William J. Fortin, jr., J. Maxwell Browne, Harry S. Fosmire, Erwin 
M. Rouse, Frank J. Eighmey, Willard H. Myers, F. F. Legnard, J. O. Holmquist, 
C. Brayman, James H. Holden, Charles A. Ostrander, James H. Teeling, Frederick 
H. West, Tracy E. West, Frederick W. Harper, Charles H. Hawkins, George W. 
Ainsworth, W. T. Porter, Elmer J. Jordan, Charles Reed, Thomas W. McNamara, 
James E. McGarr, William Neef, Archfbald Kaulfuss, James Turner, Frederick 
King and D. Hill. 

May 18 the Second Provisional Regiment left Camp Black for Chick- 
amauga Park, near Chattanooga, Tenn. Every man was perfectly 
uniformed and equipped. Not a single piece was missing from any 
man's ecjuipment. Colonel Hardin being a " regular army " officer, 
and a perfect disciplinarian, the men showed the result of the terrific 
drilling they had been subjected to during their stay in their first camp. 
The New York Herald, in describing the departure, said: 

In excellent trim, with equipments complete and all details of its transportation 
promptly executed, the Second Provisional Regiment, formed of crack separate 
companies from Troy and other up-state towns, left for Chickamauga yesterday under 
the command of Colonel E. E. Hardin, formerly of the Seventh United States in- 
fantry. The Second contains a small percentage of raw recruits as compared with 
other regiments. A committee of the Society of the Sons of the Revolution presented 
a flag to the regiment before its departure. Members of the Second left Camp Black 
yesterday morning on two special trains, which arrived at Long Island City shortly 
after 11 o'clock. •' Here they come!" was the cry that came from the crowd gath- 
ered three blocks above the station when the soldiers made their appearance. A 
great cheer went up. Less than two score relatives and friends of the up-state sol- 
diers accompanied them from camp. Wives and sweethearts, mothers and fathers 
marched by the side of their heroes as the troops passed down Borden avenue to the 
river front. Men and officers, 1,017 strong, went aboard the ferryboat Central, 
which descended the river, followed by floats carrying the freight cars. In the fac- 
tories on the New York and Long Island shores, the noon whistles had just sounded. 
Workmen, busy with their lunches, no sooner beheld the big transport heading down 
the river than they cheered with might and main. From windows and roofs caps 
were waved. Hoarse whistles sounded from tugboats, and from crowded piers on 
either shore came a medley of cries. 

Into her slip, at Communipaw, ran the Central at 20 minutes to 1 o'clock. The 
troops marched into the passenger yard, where there were waiting three special 
trains of 14 cars each, of which 11 were passenger and one Pullman. There had ar- 
rived also the members of the committee of the Sons of the Revolution, consisting 
of Charles Woodruff, one of the vice-presidents of the society ; Captain J. M. Andrews, 
Melville Hatch and Messrs. Olyphant and Montgomery. When the committee pre- 
sented the national colors to Colonel Hardin, Mr. Woodruff expressed his regret that 
the state colors to be bestow-ed upon the regiment had not yet been completed. The 



320 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

state arms are being embroidered upon a yellow field and will be sent to the regi- 
ment within 30 days. The disappointment was caused by the hurried orders re- 
ceived by the Second. The Hag presented had been finished only a few hours before. 
Being a provisional regiment, the Second possessed no regimental colors, each com- 
pany having colors of its own. Colonel Hardin thanked the members of the committee 
and the soldiers gave voice to a great cheer, as their Hag was carried by its bearer 
to the colonel's car. 

The regiment arrived at Chattanooga on the night of ]\Iay 20, and 
early next morning proceeded to the site for its new camp on the great 
Chickamauga battle ground of the Rebellion. They were tired and 
begrimed, but the march was made in good order. The regiment 
went into camp Saturday, May 21, in the southeastern part of the Na- 
tional Military Park just north of the intersection of the Thedford Ford 
road with the Dalton Ford road. At first the cotnmand suffered from 
a lack of good water, but after three or four days a pipe line was laid 
in the rear of the camp and good water for bathing and culinary pur- 
poses was at hand. The first few days there was a number of cases of 
sickness, due to the change in drinking water and the advent into a 
warmer climate. 

Here the regiment was brigaded with the Fifth Maryland and the 
Second Nebraska, under command of Colonel Hardin, as the Second 
Brigade, and attached to the First Division, commanded b}' Colonel 
Frederick D. Grant of the Fourteenth New York Volunteer Infantry, 
and the First Army Corps under Major-General Wade. Colonel Har- 
din 'subsequently was sticceeded by Colonel Bills of the Second Ne- 
braska Volunteer Infantry, and Colonel Grant by Brigadier-General L. 
H. Carpenter. Major Lewis Balch was detached and assigned to duty 
as acting chief surgeon of the First Division. He organized a divis- 
ion hospital and ambtilance company. Lietitenant George De B. 
Greene of Company E was appointed acting assistant adjutant-general 
of the brigade under Colonel Hardin, and Lieutenant Walter A. Wood, 
jr., was appointed brigade commissary. Lieutenant-Colonel Lloyd was 
advanced to the command of the Second Regiment; Lieutenant John 
A. Schwarte was made quartermaster of the division hospital; Dr. H. 
C. Baum was appointed regimental surgeon; Captain Andrew assistant 
adjutant-general of the division, and Surgeon A. Burgman assistant 
surgeon of the Second Brigade. 

On June 1 four regiments left Chickamauga for Tampa, Fla., where 
the main body of the army was to encamp preparatory to the invasion 
of Cuba. The first regiment to leave was the vSecond New York. 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 321 

After a hurried breakfast, eaten in the gray dawn of the summer morn- 
ing, the order was given to fall in. The members of the two regiments 
with which the Second New York was brigaded were on the alert, and 
as the New York boys wheeled into line they gave them a rousing 
cheer. The bands struck up a lively march, and, with Colonel Hardin 
in command, the boys started on the march along the dusty road to- 
ward Rossville, five or six miles away. It was a most inspiring scene. 
The innumerable hucksters, wagons and other vehicles on their way to 
the camp turned aside for the soldiers to pass, and many of the long- 
haired mountaineers gazed in wonder on the unexpected scene of a 
marching regiment on the Rossville road, along which Forrest's cavalry 
thundered on the day after the great fight at Chickamauga, in Septem- 
ber, 1SG4. To the Second New York was given the honor of being the 
first regiment to lead the way to Tampa. At Rossville the entire 
command embarked on the cars of the Southern railroad, and in a re- 
markabl)' short time section after section rolled away, bearing the regi- 
ment on the journey southward. Tampa was reached after some de- 
lays, June 3, when the regiment encamped and awaited orders to board 
transports to carrj- them either to Santiago de Cuba, where Commodore 
Schley had the Spanish squadron under Admiral Cervera's command 
effectually "bottled up" in the harbor, or to San Juan, the capital of 
Porto Rico, where, it was then generally believed, the administration 
intended to land troops for the capture and occupation of this Spanish 
possession. 

June 6 the resignation of Lieutenant Carroll L. Maxcy of Company 
A was accepted and he was honorably discharged. Private John Flynn, 
jr., of Company A was also discharged to accept a position as lieuten- 
ant in the Engineer corps. June 8 Private Michael F. Sheary of Com- 
pany A was directed to be discharged to accept a commission as pay- 
master, with the rank of major, in the U. S. Volunteers, and on the 
same day Private Sanford L. Cluett was transferred to the First Reg- 
iment U. S. Volunteer Engineers. June 14 Private Eugene Warren of 
Company A was discharged to accept a clerkship under Major Sheary. 
June 15 the resignation of Rev. Hector Hall as chaplain was accepted 
and he was honorably discharged. June 21 Private George W. Kinne 
of Company D was transferred to the First Regiment U. S. Volunteer 
Engineers. June 10 Major Lewis Balch, surgeon of the regiment, was 
appointed chief surgeon of the division, and First Lieutenant Rufus ^L 
Townsend of Company C was appointed chief commissary of subsist- 
21 



322 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ence of the division. Pursuant to orders issued by Major-General Cop- 
pinger under date of June 15, Major Austin A. Yates, Captain Loyal 
L. Davis and Captain Merrill M. Dunspaugh, with one man from each 
company, left Tampa on the same day on recruiting service, with in- 
structions to recruit each company up to the maximum strength of 
one hundred and six enlisted men. 

After the regiment was mustered in at Camp Black notification was 
received that it would be entitled to another major and three battalion 
adjutants. Attempts were made to have the officers appointed to fill 
these positions mustered in at Camp Alger by the mustering officer 
there because the officers had not received their formal commissions. On 
June 20, at Tampa, the following officers of the regiment were mus- 
tered in: 

Thomas C. Collin, captain of Company B, as major of the Third Battalion with 
rank from May 23. 

George De B. Greene, first lieutenant of Company E. 

Thomas W. Hyslop, private of Company A, and 

William Swift Martin, regimental sergeant-major, as battalion adjutants with rank 
from May 33. 

Daniel J. Hogan, sergeant of Company K, as second lieutenant of Company K, 
with rank from May 18, and 

Calvin S. McChesney, quartermaster-sergeant of Company A, as second lieutenant 
of Company A, with rank from June 13, vice Carroll L. Maxcy resigned. 

June 28 the following additional officers were mustered in: 

John McGaffin as captam of Company B, vice Collin promoted, with rank from 
June 22. 

Edward J. White as first lieutenant of Company B, vice McGaffin promoted, with 
rank from June '^2, 

William Leland Thompson, a private of Company A as second lieutenant of 
Company B, vice White promoted, with rank from June 22, and 

Donald J. H'.itton as first lieutenant of Company E, vice Greene appointed battal- 
ion adjutant, with rank from June 22. 

June 25 orders were received that the regiment be fully equipped to 
be loaded on to transports destined for Cuba or Porto Rico. But 
the order to sail did not come. 

July 1 several men were discharged to accept positions as second 
lieutenants in the new volunteer regiments to be formed in the State 
of New York as follows: 

Private George L. Hare, jr., of Company A and Private H. C. Todd of Company 
L, in the Two Hundred and Second Regiment. 



SARATOCA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 323 

Private Esek B. Williamson of Company A and Private Winsor P. French of Com- 
pany L in the Two Hundred and First Regiment. 

Privates Griswold Green and George Alford Cluett of Company A in the Two 
Hundred and Third Regiment. 

During the month of July a vast amount of sickness occurred among 
the troops stationed at Tampa and during the latter part of the month 
the Second Regiment was ordered to remove to Fernandina, Fla., 
where the climate was more salubrious. The regiment arrived at the 
latter place July 27 and was assigned to a place on the extreme south 
of the camp. Many cases of sickness were reported, mostly malarial 
fever contracted at Tampa; but the men were enthusiastic over the 
new camp, greeting the cooler air and more healthful surroundings 
with expressions of delight. 

On July 24 the regiment was transferred to the First Brigade, First 
Division, of the Fourth Army Corps and brigaded with the Fifth Ohio 
and Thirty-second Michigan ^'olunteers. Two days later it left its 
camp at Tampa and proceeded to Fernandina. August 21 it was re- 
lieved from duty, transferred from the Department of the East and 
ordered to Troy, N. Y. Camp was struck August 24 and three days 
later the command reached Troy. The following day the regiment 
moved to Averill Park, pitching camp near Sand Lake. 

September 12 the regiment received a furlough for thirty days and 
the muster out took place as follows: October 25, Companies A, B, C 
and D; October 26, Company M; October 27, Companies I and L; 
October 28, Company K; October 31, Companies E and F; November 
1, Companies G and H; November 2, the regimental field and staff as 
follows: 

Colonel, Edward E. Hardin; lieutenant-colonel, James H. Lloyd; 
majors, James W. Lester, Austin A. Yates, Thomas Campbell Collin ; 
regimental adjutant, James J. Phelan; battalion adjutants, Thomas 
W. Hislop, George De B, Greene, William Swift Martin ; quartermaster 
George M Alden; surgeon, Henry C. Baum ; assistant surgeon, Albert 
F. Brugman ; chaplain, Edmund P. Easterbrook. 

The following members of Company L (the Saratoga company) died 
in the service: 

Private Frank S. Legnard, died July 31, 1898, of cerebral apoplexy, 
at Fernandina, Fla. 

Private Tracey E. West, died August 7, 1898, of typhoid fever, at 
Fernandina, Fla. 



334 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Private Elmer J. Jourdan, died August 17, 1898, of typhoid fever, at 
Fort McPherson hospital, Ga. 

Private William J. Searing, died August 19, 1898, of typhoid fever, 
at Fernandina, Fla. 

Private Robertson A. Parker, died September 5, 1898, of typhoid 
fever, at Troy, N. Y. 

Private Thomas W. McNamara, died September 7, 1898, of typhoid 
fever, at Troy, N. Y. 

Private James A. Holden, died September 13, 1898, of typhoid fever, 
at Troy, N. Y. 

Corporal Frederick P. McNair, died October 18, 1898, of typhoid 
fever, at Saratoga Springs, N. Y. 

EARLY HISTORY OF THE COMPANY. 

For twenty years Saratoga county has been represented in the New 
York National Guard by the military company which became one of 
first to offer its services to the federal government when the war with 
Spain began. 

No national guard company existed in Saratoga county previous to 
1877. The idea of organizing the Twenty-second Separate Company, 
or the Saratoga Citizens' Corps, originated at the time of the centennial 
celebration at Bemus Heights in 1877, when general attention was 
called to the fact that there was no military organization in Saratoga 
county to receive the Governor's Foot Guards. In the fall of 1877 the 
work of enlistment was begun. The company was organized March 
14, 1878, and mustered into the service of the State March 25 follow- 
ing, with a total strength of three officers and one hundred men. The 
first officers were: Captain, John T. Fassett; first lieutenant, George 
H. Gillis; second lieutenant, Hamilton P. Burney; third lieutenant, 
John L. Perry, M. D. Captain Fassett remained in command of the 
company until May, 1883, when Dr. R. C. McEwen was elected cap- 
tain, serving until 1891. In January, 1892, James W. Lester was elected 
to the captaincy and had charge of the organization until promoted to 
major of the Fourteenth Battalion. Third Brigade (of which the Twen- 
ty-second Company forms a part) in March, 1898. In April, 1898, 
Amos C. Rich was elected captain and as such headed the command in 
its expedition to the front as a part of the Second Regiment, New York 
Volunteers. 

Succeeding the first officers of the company, besides the captains, the 
following have served in the order given : 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 325 

First lieutenants, Patrick McDonald, A. L. Hall, Amos C. Rich, John A. Schwarte; 
second lieutenants, Patrick McDonald. A. L. Hall, Waldo L. Rich, Obed M. Cole- 
man, Frederick M. Waterbury; surgeons. Dr. W. H. Hall, Dr. John A. Moore. 

For several years the armory of the company was in the Saratoga 
Town Hall building, and drills were held in the Town Hall and the 
Casino. Since 1891 the company has occupied its handsome and com- 
modious armory on Lake avenue. 

From the date of the organization of this company, the pride of Sar- 
atoga, to the present time, some of the more important events in its 
career have been as follows: 

1878: June 21— A. B. C. and S. C. C. banquet at Clarendon hotel. August 8— 
Escort Worcester Continentals. September 12 — Sham battle, Twenty-second Sepa- 
rate Company, Eighteenth Separate Company, Glen Mitchell. October 11 — Excur- 
sion to Ballston. December 9-16 — Fair of Twenty-second Separate Company. 

1879: February 6 — Glens Falls, reception Eighteenth Separate Company. June 
17 — Albany, re-union G. A. R. September 4 — Sham battle at county fair. Glen 
Mitchell. 

1880: January 26-February 2 — Fair of Twenty-second Separate Company. July 
5 — Independence Day at Cohoes. August 16 — Escort to Company B, Tenth Regi- 
ment. September 7 — Escort Tibbits Veteran Corps of Troy. October 16 — One 
hundred and third anniversary Burgoyne's surrender, SchuylerviUe. 

1881: July 4 — Independence Day at Johnstown. August 3 — Ecsort Worcester 
Continentals. September 12 — Escort Tibbits Veteran Corps of Troy — Presentation 
of colors. September 16 — Picnic to Saratoga lake. 

1882: January 30-February 4 — Fair of Twenty-second Separate Company. May 
30 — Banquet Adelphi hotel. May 30-June 1 — E.xcursion to Worcester, Mass. 

1883: September .5 — Escort Paterson Light Guards of Paterson, N. J. 

1884: September 23 — Escort Putnam Phalanx of Hartford, Conn. 

1885. February 12-16 — "Love and Duty," produced at Town hall. July 4 — Inde- 
pendence Day at Plattsburgh. July 33— Escort Elizabeth Veteran Zouaves of 
Elizabeth, N. J. August 4. — Guard duly. Funeral of General Ulysses S. Grant. 

18S6: January 35-30— Fair Tiventy-second Separate Company. July 5— Inde- 
pendence Day at Johnstown. July 22 — Albany, Bi Centennial celebration. 

1887: May 25-31 — Excursion to Washington, D. C. May 30 — Escort, Logan 
Guard of Honor, Washington, D. C. June 7 — Albany, entertained by Company A, 
Tenth Battalion. June 22— Escort Army of the Potomac re-union at Saratoga. 
September 8 — Ballston, escort to Governor David B. Hill. September 1.5-17 — Cen- 
tennial celebration, Philadelphia. 

1888: June 14 — Ballston, dedication of Soldiers' monument. August 7 — Escort 
Keck Zouaves of Johnstown. October 1 — Escort Ancient and Honorable Artillery 
Company of Boston. 

1889: January 1 — Albany, inauguration Governor David B. Hill. April 29-May 
1 — New York, via " (Srand Republic," Centennial celebration, Washington's inaug- 
uration. November 22 — Corner stone armorv Twenty-second Separate Company 
laid. 



326 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1890: November 26 — Entertained by Thirty-second Separate Company at Hoo 
sick Falls. 

1891: February 2-7 — Fair of Twenty-second Separate Company. August 21 — 
Saratoga, escort to Benjamin Harrison, President of the United States. October 13 
— Utica, dedication soldiers' monument. 

1892: June 25-July 2— State Camp, Peekskill. July 4— Banquet to A. B. C. at 
Windsor hotel. July 12 — Escort to Benjamin Harrison, President of the United 
States. October 21 — Albany, Columbus Day celebration. 

1893: April 26-28 — Naval parade in New York city. July 4 — Skirmish drill at 
Woodlawn Oval. November 20-25 — Fair of Twenty-second Separate Company. 

1894: June 23-30— State Camp at Peekskill. 

1895: September 5 — Floral parade. Escort to Governor Levi P. Morton. Sep- 
tember 16-31 — Field service. Saratoga battle ground, Bemus Heights, Saratoga 
lake. 

1896: June 6 — Albany, guests of Company A, Tenth Battalion. 

1897; April 27 — New York city, dedication Crant monument. September 6 — En- 
tertain Company A, Tenth Battalion, at Saratoga lake. September 7 — Floral parade 
Bicycle Corps. 

1898: May 2 — Left Saratoga for Camp Black, Hempstead Plains, Long Island. 
May 16 — Sworn into the service of the United States. May 18 — Left Camp Black 
for Chickamauga Park. June 1 — Proceeded from Chickamauga Park for Tampa, 
Fla. 

Others Wim Served. 

In addition to the Twenty-second Separate companj' of Saratoga, a 
number of other inhabitants of Saratoga county took up arms against 
Spain, and many others endeavored to volunteer, but found that when 
they offered themselves the quota of New York already had been filled. 
Captain Guy Ellis Baker of Ballston was an aide on the staff of General 
Robert Shaw Oliver, commander of the Third Brigade of the National 
Guard of New York. Paul M. Pelletreau, son of Rev. Dr. Charles 
Pelletreau of Ballston Spa, accompanied the Second Regiment as a 
corporal in the Thirty-sixth Separate Company of Schenectady. Charles 
E. Van Pelt of Saratoga was a member of John Jacob Astor's Light 
Battery, destined for service in the Philippines. William H. Newkom 
of Ballston Spa served as a musician in the regular army. Gerrit V. S. 
Quackenbush, son of Edwin Quackenbush of Ballston Spa, was com- 
missioned second lieutenant of Coinpany L of the Sixty-fifth Regiment 
of Buffalo, which he helped to recruit. Capt. William H. McKittrick, 
son of Capt. William H. McKittrick of Ballston Spa, who was killed in 
the war of the Rebellion, served as a member of the staff of his father- 
in-law, Major-General Shatter, of California. Among the others who 
enlisted as volunteers were Charles C. Cook, Charles Crippen, Harry 



SARATOGA IN THE SPANISH WAR. 827 

B. Ford, Charles H. Williams and Harry Snyder, all of Ballston Spa. 
Cadet Joseph W. Powell, who took part in the expedition which sank 
the American collier Merrimac in the entrance to the harbor of Santiago 
de Cuba, under command of Lieutenant Richmond Pearson Hobson, bj' 
which action Admiral Cervera's fleet was imprisoned in that harbor, is 
a grandson of ex-Sheriff Powell of Milton, and a great-grandson of 
Elisha Powell of Milton, a former judge of the Saratoga county Court 
of Common Pleas. 

PATRIOTISM AT HOME. 

But Saratoga county's patriotism in this war did not stop here. The 
citizens of Saratoga Springs raised, by subscription, several tliousand 
dollars, to be devoted to the purchase of necessities and comforts for 
the men in the field, and other places in the county followed their ex- 
ample. The Woman's National War Relief Association of the United 
States of America, incorporated at Albany, May 31, 1898, had for its 
president ]\Irs. Ellen Hardin Walworth of Saratoga Springs. The 
society was formed to give expression in a practical way to the patri- 
otic sentiment of the women of the nation by finding means to supple- 
ment with material aid the sacrifices of time, strength, and life by men 
of the nation in the present war; to keep in remembrance the cause of 
humanity and the preservation of liberty which made this war neces- 
sary, and to cultivate a sensitive regard for the honor of the nation 
and the flag; to collect money and have it applied to the promotion of 
the health and comfort of officers, soldiers, and sailors in the array and 
navy according to the approval of the president of the United States, 
the secretaries of war and of the navy, and the surgeon general. 
This association raised large sums of money for the surgeon-general's 
fund of the army and navy, and to help to equip the ambulance ship 
Relief, fitted out in New York harbor to accompany the ships and 
troops to Cuba. 

On July 4, 1898, the inhabitants of Saratoga county were afforded 
another opportunity to display their patriotism by furnishing comforts 
to the soldiers of the Second Regiment in the field. On that day 
thousands of persons attended the festivities held on the fair grounds 
at Ballston Spa under the management of citizens of that village. Sat- 
urday evening, June 11, a mass meeting was held at the Sans Souci 
opera iiouse, when it was unanimously decided to hold a gigantic festi- 
val on the nation's birthday, the proceeds of which should go to the 



328 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

soldiers of the Second Regiment. Rev. Dr. Charles Pelletreau was 
chosen manager of the festival. He named several committees to look 
after the details of the work, including an advisory committee consist- 
ing of Rev. B. J. McDonough, Rev. G. G. Johnson, Rev. Henry L. 
Teller, Rev. W. W. Cox, Rev. C. W. Eede, Frank Jones, Hon. Har- 
vey J. Donaldson, Thomas Kerley, Hon. Stephen C. Medbery, Hon. 
John H. Burke, Andrew S. Booth, T. C. Kelley and H. H. Ferris. 
Large quantities of provisions, etc., were donated by citizens, and the 
celebration was one of the most interesting ever held in Saratoga 
county. There were horse races, bicycle races and other sports, and 
all the choirs of the village joined together and sang patriotic songs. 
The sum of $1,300 was realized from the occasion. 

A NEW COMPANY ORGANIZED. 

Soon after the departure of the Twenty-second Separate company 
from Saratoga Springs, the work of recruiting a new company was be- 
gan by Lieutenant Frederick M. Waterbury; and so rapidly was the 
work prosecuted that on May 16 the new company, the One Hundred 
and Twenty-second Separate company, was mustered into the National 
Guard and ready to respond to another call to arms if its services should 
be desired. The ceremony of mustering in took place at the armory. 
Those who took the oath were: 

Members of the original Twenty-second Co. — E. B. Ashton, Bernard Brunner, 
H. J. Blichfeldt, Arthur L. Churchill, W. R. Calkins, George Clements, Frank W. 
Case, Charles A. Douglass, George Ellsworth, H. J. Epler, Clarence J. Fish, Arthur 
P. Hope, Fred C. Humeston, W. F. Ingham, Frank M. Jenkins, John H. Morris, 
Robert McNaughton, George A. Putnam, H. Allison Rood, E. M. Sipperly, jr., 
Charles Smith, Charles L. Slarks, Charles F. Vaughn. Philip S. Wakeley, Fred 
West, James H. Reagan, R. Mingay, jr., G. R. P. Shackelford, W. L. Thompson, 
Mervin Sanford. 

Volunteers. — James Burdick, Harry Brazee, Josiah W. Boyce, O. E. Deyoe, A. L. 
Deyoe, Charles Doolittle, J. Harry Eddy, Alvin Freeman, George W. Fish, William 
Gamby, W. M. Hill, Alfred R. Houseworth, Fred Harper, Harry Hall, Alfred 
Holmquest, Albert Hudson, James Holden, Archibald Kaulfuss, F. S. Legnard, 
Joseph Matthews, W. H. Myers, Harry Ostrander, W. P. O'Brien, W. E. Ouderkirk, 
W. Porter, George Phillips, E. M. Rouse, Francis Reilly, William Stein, Will W. 

•Smith, Teeling, George Turner, E. S. Warner, Harry Fosniire, O. A. Mosher 

Will Snyder. 

Before the men were dismissed these officers were elected: Captain, 
Frederick M. Waterbury; first lieutenant, James H. Reagan; second 
lieutenant, Richard Mingay, jr. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— SARATOGA SPRINGS. 32« 

vSince its organization this company has twice filled the ranks of 
Company L, at the front, having sent in all thirty-nine additional men. 



CHAPTER XV. 

GAZETTEER OF TOWNS. 

TOWN OF SARATOGA SPRINGS. 

The town of Saratoga Springs is located a little to the southeast of 
the geographical centre of the county. It is bounded on the north by 
the towns of Greenfield and Wilton, on the east by Saratoga, on the 
south by Malta and on the west by Milton. The Revised vStatutes of 
New York State define the town as follows: 

The town of Saratoga Springs shall contain all that part of said county bounded 
northerly by Greenfield and Wilton, westerly by Milton, southerly by Malta, and 
easterly by a line beginning at the northeast corner of Malta, then down the middle 
of Saratoga lake and Fish creek to a point two rods above Stafford's Bridge, and 
running thence, so as to include said bridge and a piece of land four rods wide, to a 
point two rods below said bridge, and then due north to the south bounds of Wilton. 

The surface of the town is gently undulating. A portion of Saratoga 
lake forms the southeast corner of the town. Kayaderosseras creek 
traverses the southern boundary. Its most important creek beside 
Kayaderosseras and Fish creeks, lying on the boundaries, are Ellis 
creek, which empties into the Kayaderosseras. There are several small 
lakes or ponds within the borders of the town. The tracks of the Del- 
aware & Hudson Canal company's railroad traverse the county from 
the southwestern to the northeastern parts; a branch of the Fitchburg 
railroad enters the town from the east and extends to the village of 
Saratoga Springs; the Adirondack railroad runs northerly from that 
village, and the Mount McGregor railroad takes a northeasterly course 
therefrom. This town possesses that which is claimed by few other 
localities — beds of peat of considerable extent — though the fact is not 
generally known. It is also celebrated the world over f jr the number 
and excellence of its mineral springs, which are more fully described 
in another chapter. 

The first settler in the town is believed to have been Samuel Norton, 



330 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

who for several years conducted a rude log hotel near High Rock spring. 
Others had preceded him, but for one reason or another they remained 
but a short time. Norton came in 1776 and made the immediate locality 
of old High Rock spring his permanent home. Amos Sta-fford was 
the first to locate in that part of the town afterwards known as Staf- 
ford's Bridge. A short time after John, Henry and Nicholas Wagman, 
brothers, located near by, as did Amos Peck. The families were all 
related by marriage. In the southeastern part of the town Benjamin 
Frenchwas the first settler of whom anything is known, he having lo- 
cated there about 1780. Jonathan Ramsdell built a home on the west 
side of the lake about 1801. David Abell and Benjamin Avery came 
to the town about 1790. 

Upon the farm of Mr. Abell, on the shores of Saratoga lake, proba- 
bly the first school in town was established some time before 1800. 
Very little is known of the other early schools. Few have ever been 
established in town except those in the village of Saratoga Springs. 
Grist mills and saw mills were established at an early day. Robert 
Ellis built a saw mill soon after 1800 at the locality now known as The 
Geysers. A few years later he built a grist mill at the same place. 
Sylvester Bishop and Warren Cady were early tavern keepers, their 
primitive hostelries being located near the site of the Star spring. 
John and Ziba Taylor, brothers, were doubtless the pioneer merchants 
of the town, their store being located at Saratoga Springs village. 
George Peck did an extensive business as a scythe maker, near the Gey- 
ser spring, soon after 1800. Early in the century the population of the 
town began to increase at a rapid rate, the newcomers being an ener- 
getic and prosperous class of men. In 1831 work upon the Saratoga 
and Schenectady railroad was begun. This road subsequently came 
under the control of the Rensselaer and Saratoga Railroad company, 
organized in 1832, and both roads ultimately passed into the hands of 
the Delaware and Hudson Canal company. The Saratoga and Wash- 
ington railroad, now a part of the Delaware and Hudson system, was 
begun in 1835, but it was 1848 before it was opened for business as far 
as Gansevoort. In the fall of 1863 the work of constructing the Adi- 
rondack railway was begun, and the track in the town of Saratoga 
Springs was laid at once. The Mount McGregor railroad was con- 
structed in 1882, and the Troy, Saratoga and Northern, now a part of 
the Fitchburg system, in 1886 and 1887. 

Saratoga Springs is the principal village in the town. It is situated 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— SARATOGA SPRINGS. 331 

in the northern part of the town, just west of the centre. Its first per- 
manent settler was Samuel Norton, who ran a small log tavern near 
High Rock spring in the fall of 177G. This early tavern had been built 
in 1771 by Dirck Schouten, from Waterford, and occupied by him ; 
then by John Arnold, in 1774. In 1790 Benjamin Risley and his son- 
in-law, Gideon Putnam, bought considerable land in the vicinity of the 
springs; and in 1800 the latter began the erection of Union Hall, the 
first large hotel in the village. In 1811 he began the erection of Con- 
gress Hall. The mineral springs here, to which extended reference is 
made elsewhere in this work, already had become famous, and with the 
construction of these hotels the future greatness of Saratoga was as- 
sured. The population increased rapidly; new springs were discovered 
and new hotels of magnificent proportions were built for the accommo- 
dation of the thousands of visitors who now flocked to the springs 
every year. The village was incorporated by the Legislature April 17, 
182G, the act defining the corporate limits as follows: 

All that district of country lying in the town of Saratoga Springs, county of Sara- 
toga, and State of New York, situated between two lines parallel to, and each half of a 
mile distant from the following described line, to wit: Beginning on the line between 
the Livingston and Ostrander lots, in the centre of the highway, near the house of 
Jesse Ostrander; running northerly as the highway runs, till it strikes Broad street, 
as laid out on a map of lots at Saratoga Springs, belonging to Gideon Putnam ; 
thence northerly along the centre of Broad street till the said line intersects the high • 
way leading from the upper village to Greenfield, near the Methodist meeting-house; 
thence north to Greenfield line, shall continue to be called and known by the name 
of the village of Saratoga Springs. 

The boundaries of the village have been greatly altered since then 
notably in 1866, by act of the Legislature. The first officers of the new 
village were: Presiding justices, John H. Steel, William L. F. Warren; 
president, Joshua Porter; trustees, John Bryan, Rockwell Putnam 
Robert McDonnal, David Cobb; clerk, Peter V. Wiggins; treasurer, 
John A. Waterbury; constables, Joshua Blum, Joseph White; path- 
master, Samuel Matthews. The following is a complete list of the 
village presidents and clerkc since the incorporation of the village. 

Village Presidents. 

1826, Joshua Porter; 1829-36, John H. Steel; 1837, Samuel Chapman; 1838-39, 
Thomas J. Marvin; 1840, Robert Gardner; 1841-43, Thomas J. Marvin; 1843, Abel 
A. Kellogg; 1844, T.J.Marvin; 1845, Daniel D. Benedict; 1846^9, Washington 
Putnam: 1850-.'")6, John A. Corey; 1857-58, John H. White; 1859-60, Peckham H. 
Green; 1861, John H. White; 1862, Charles S Lester; 1863, J. H. White; 1864-65, 



332 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

John S. Leake; 1866-69, J. H. White; 1870-71, James H. Wright (appointed January 
7, 1870, to succeed J. H. White, resigned); 1872-73, Caleb W. Mitchell; 1874-75, 
Charles A. Allen; 1876-77, Stephen H. Richards; 1878-79, Thomas Noxon ; 1880-81, 
James R. Chapman; 1882-83, R. F. Milligan; 1884-85, P H. Cowen; 1886-87, Lewis 
Wood; 1888-91, Deyoe Lohnas; 1892-94, Caleb W. Mitchell; in 1895 Mr. Mitchell 
was legislated out of office and Charles H. Sturges took ofiBce May 6, 1895, serving 
to May 1, 1897, when Adelbert P. Knapp, the present president, came into office. 

Clerks. 

1836, P. V. Wiggins; 1827. Miles Taylor; 1828, William C. Waterbury; 1829, Dan- 
iel T. Reed; 1830, Miles Taylor; 1831-32, Daniel D. Benedict; 1833, James H. Robin- 
son; 1834-37, Henry P. Hyde; 1838, John C. Hulburt; 1839-40. Carey B. Moon; 1841, 
Samuel Pitkin; 1842-43, William It. Andrews; 1844, James H. Wescott; 1845, Will- 
iam H. Andrews; 1846, Samuel Pitkin; 1847, George W. Spooner; 1848-51, John W. 
Crane; 18.52, Jesse L. Fraser; 18.53, J. R. Rockwell; 1854. Charles H. Hulbert; 1855- 
56, C. C. Morehouse; 1857, James H. Huling; 18.58-60, William L. Putnam; 1861-62, 
John Gunning, jr. (resigned in 1862 and L. B. Putnam appointed to fill unexpired 
term); 1863, Ferdinand Height; 1864-65, Lorin B. Putnam; 1866-69, F. Height; 1870, 
William L. Grahame; 1871, Charles A. Tefft, jr.; 1872-75, Patrick McDonald; 1876- 
79, W. D. Grahame; 1880-89, Samuel F. Corey; 1890-91, Amos S. Browne; 1892-94, 
John T. Dillon; 1896-98, James D. McNulty. 

In addition to the numerous world-famed hotels at Saratoga Springs, 
the village has two handsome public buildings. The town hall, which 
stands on North Broadway, was built by the town authorities in 187L 
The Convention hall, one of the handsomest and most commodious 
structures of its kind in the United States, was built in 1892 and 1893, 
at a cost of about $100,000, principally for a headquarters for the many 
conventions which are held annually in the village. It is a large brick 
structure, located on South Broadway, below Congress Park, and is an 
imposing structure. It was completed in the fall of 1893. 

Saratoga's faine rests principally upon its wonderful mineral springs 
and magnificent hotels, some of which for many years have ranked 
among the most elegant, in appointment and service, in the world. 
These have been described in preceding pages. 

The oldest church in town is the First Baptist church, organized in 
1791 by ten members of the First Baptist church of Stillwater. The 
First Presbyterian church was organized in 1816, Bethesda Protestant 
Episcopal church in 1830, the First M. E. church in 1830-1831, St. 
Peter's Catholic church in 1839, the First Congregational church in 
1865, the Second Presbyterian church in 1869, the Second Baptist 
church in 1873, the First Free Methodist church in 1865, the African 
M. E. Zion church in 1863, the Universalist cliurch about 1840, the 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— SARATOGA SPRINGS. 333 

New England Congregational church in 1880, the Congregational 
Methodist church in 1896. The school from which Temple Grove 
Seminary sprang was started in 1-854 by Mr. Carter. The present 
public school system was organized in 1867. Rising Sun lodge No. 
103, F. & A. M., at first instituted in that part of the town now North- 
umberland during or before 1808, was finally revived under a charter 
granted in June, 1845. Saratoga lodge No. 15, I. O. O. F. , was organ- 
ized November 17, 1843, with C. W. Burlingame as noble grand, and 
is the oldest lodge of Odd Fellows in the district. Grace lodge No. 413 
was instituted December 8, 1874, with A. M. Boyce as noble grand. 
Saratoga Division, Sons of Temperance, was first instituted in 1843. 
Another division was organized in 1858. Several other prosperous 
secret and fraternal societies exist in the town. The Young Men's 
Christian Association was organized in 18G6, with Prof. Hiram A. Wil- 
son as the first president. The Woman's Christian Temperance Union 
was organized March 17, 1874, with Mrs. Henry R. Lawrence as presi- 
dent. Empire lodge No. 74, Knights of Pythias, was instituted Febru- 
ary 28, 1873, with N. Waterbury as presiding officer. There are two 
posts of the Grand Army of the Republic in Saratoga Springs. The 
first of these, Post Luther M. Wheeler, No. 93, was chartered June 5, 

1877, and was organized October 11, 1877. The second. Post James B. 
McKean, No. 498, was chartered April 16, 1891, and organized May 1 
following." Crystal lodge. No. 512, I. O. G. T., was instituted June 15, 
1882.' Putnam lodge. No. 134, A. O. U. W., was organized March 9, 

1878, with J. F. Lamberton as P. M. W., and Robert A. Hemingway 
as M. W. The Saratoga Musical association was organized in Febru- 
ary, 1809, with Samuel E. Bushnell as president and Dr. C. F. Rich as 
musical director. The first grand concert was given April 11, 1870, 
and the first grand musical convention was held in February, 1872, with 
L. O. Emerson as musical director. 

Saratoga Springs has had four banks, two of which are now in ex- 

* The commanders of Post Luther M. Wheeler have been : K. T. Woodward, David F. Ritchie, 
Antoine De R. lIcNair, William H. Hall, Albert F. Mitchell, Hiram W. Hays, Robert F. Knapp, 
Charles H. Hodges, Winsor B. French, Hosea H. Ormsbee, Edward H. Fuller, Robert S. Riminj;- 
ton, Elias J. Pendrick, William F. Hall and John S. Fassett. The commanders of Post James H. 
McKean have been : William M. Searing, 18!)1-1893; James H. Reagan, 18fl.3: Augustus R. Walker, 
1S94; James R. Gibbs, 1895; Charles D. Thurber, 1896; Seth W. Deyoe, 1897; Porteus C. Gilbert, 1898. 
The latter died June 11, 1898. 

^ The following have filled the position of Chief Templar : Arthur Crosby, John Barton, Will- 
iam Spencer, Emory Potter, J. H. Parks, F. S. Harlow, James D. Stiles, Frank Ames, M. Thomp- 
son, C. G. Monford. Spencer M. Sterns, Ira A. Brooks, James H. Myers, T. Perry, J. .VI. Fake, 
George Ramsey, Henry Cunningham, F. K. Barrett and F. H. Partridge. 



334 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

istence. These are the First National bank, organized in 1848, and the 
Citizens National bank, organized in 1881. The Commercial National 
bank, and the Union Savings bank, chartered in 1873, both failed in 
December, 1878. The Saratoga Gaslight Company was organized in 
1854. The Saratoga Volunteer Fire Department was organized in 
1826. This was succeeded by a paid department in 1883. The vil- 
lage has an excellent waterworks system, started in 1833 by Dr. John 
Clark and improved by the construction of a large reservoir in Green- 
field in 1847. 

In 1831 the Saratoga Recorder and Anti-Masonic Democrat was 
established by D. Tehan. Since that time the village has supported 
several newspapers. The Saratogian, daily and weekly, and the Sara- 
toga Eagle and Saratoga Sun, weekly, are now published in the village. 

Stafford's Bridge, Eddy's Corners, Ashley's Corners, Ellis Corners, 
Cady's Hill and The Geysers are the principal hamlets or localities in 
the town, aside from Saratoga Springs village. Ellis Corners and 
Cady's Hill in recent years have become known as The Geysers. 

The town of Saratoga Springs was set off from Saratoga April 9, 
1819. The first town meeting was held at Union hall March 7, 1820, 
when these officers were elected : 

Supervisor, Ashbel Andrews; town clerk, Harmon J. Belts; assessors, Walter 
Crawford, Richard Searing, Nathan Lewis; commissioners of highways, Daniel 
Crawford, Samuel Stafford, Samuel S. Wakeman ; overseers of the poor, John Eddy, 
Gilbert Waring; collector, John Bemus; commissioners of common schools, John 
Glean, George Peck, Rockwell Putnam; inspectors of common schools. Rev. Francis 
Wayland, Rev. James O. Griswold, William L F. Warren ; constables, Solomon 
Spaulding, Joseph White, Frederick Avery ; poundmaster, Richard Searing; inspec- 
tors of weights and measures, George Peck, John Bryan, Richard Searing. 

The following is a list of the principal officers of the town since the 
date of its organization : 

SUPERNISORS. 

1820, Ashbel Andrews; 1821-1822, Esek Cowen ; 1823-1827. George Peck; 1828- 
1839, John II. Steel; 1830-1834, James R. Westcot ; 183.5, Rockwell Putnam; 1830- 
1838, Samuel Chapman; 1839, James R. Westcot; 1840-1843, Samuel Chapman; 
1844, Joel Clement; 1845, James M. Marvin; 1846-1848, John L. Perry; 1849, John 
A. Corey; 1850, Samuel Chapman: 1851, Samuel Pitkin; 1853, Thomas J. Marvin; 
1853, Samuel Freeman; 1854, Cruger Walton; 1855, Franklin Hoag; 1856, Cruger 
Walton; 1857, James M. Marvin; 1858, Henry H. Hathorn ; 1859, John M. White; 
1860, Henry H. Hathorn; 1861, Hiram H. Martin; 1863, James M. Marvin; 1863, 
John W. Crane; 1864-1865, Charles S. Lester; 1866-1867, Henry H. Hathorn; 1868- 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— SARATOGA SPRINGS. 335 

1869, John W. Crane; 1870-1871, James P. Butler; 1872-1873, James I. Wakefield 
1.S74, James M. Marvin; 1875-1876, Anson M. Boyce; 1876, Patrick H. Co wen (ap 
pointed to succeed Boyce, resigned); 1877, Thomas Noxon ; 1878-1881, Joseph Baucus 
1882, Thomas Noxon; 1883-1884, Joseph Baucus; 1885-1886, Isaac Y. Ouderkirk 
1887-1888, Augustine W. Shepherd, 1889, Frank M. Boyce; 1890, Davis Coleman 
1891-1895, James M. Ostrander; 1896-1897, Harry Crocker; 1898, Frank H. Hathorn. 

Town Clerks. 

1820-1821, Harmon J. Belts; 1822, Joel Clements; 1823, Harmon J. Belts; 1824- 
1829 James R. Wescott; 1830-1832, Washington Putnam; 1833-1834, Rockwell Put- 
nam; 1835, Abel A. Kellogg; 1836, John A. Corey; 1837, Joseph M. Wheeler; 1838, 
Ezra Hall; 1839, Rockwell Putnam; 1840. S. R. Ostrander; 1841, Horace Fonda; 
1842. Patrick H. Cowen ; 1843, Horace Fonda; 1844, William H. Andrews; 1845, 
William E. Castle; 1846. William S. Balch ; 1847, Charles S. Lester; 1848, John T. 
Carr; 1849, William L. Grisvvold; 18.50, William S. Balch; 1851-18.52, C. W. Burlin- 
garae; 1853-1854, Robert Nichols ; 18.55. Charles H. Hulbert; 1856, George L. Stearns; 
1857, Charles C. Morehouse; 1858. C. W. Burlingame; 1859-1860, Lorin B. Putnam; 
1861-1863, Abram B. Jenner; 1864-1866, James M. Ostrander; 1867, Daniel T. Rock- 
well; 1868. Henry Marshall; 1869, L. L. Brinlnall; 1870, Frederick N. Owen; 1871. 
George H. Gillis; 1872, William M. Searing, jr.; 1873, Patrick McDonald; 1874, 
George H. Gillis; 187.5-1877, Daniel Eddy; 1878-1879, Isaac Y. Ouderkirk; 1880- 
1893, Michael S. Cummings; 1894-1895, Daniel S. Woodworth; 1896-1898, Michael 
S. Cummings. 

Justices of the Peace. 

1831. Wm. A. Langworthy; 1832, Ransom Cook, Eli Holbrook; 1833, John B. Gil- 
bert; 1834, Wm. A. Beach; 1835, Daniel T. Reed, John A. Waterbury; 1836, Ransom 
Cook; 1837, John B. Gilbert; 1838, Sidney J. Cowen; 1839, George W. Wilcox; 1840, 
Shelemiah R. Ostrander; 1841, Ransom Cook; 1842, Joseph White; 1843, John C. 
Hulbert; 1844, Augustus Bockes; 1845, Abel A. Kellogg; 1846, Joseph R. Pkmkett, 
1847, Wm. E. Castle; 1848, Chas. S. Lester; 1849, Abel^A. Kellogg; 1850, Seymour 
(Gilbert. John T. Carr; 1851, John T. Carr; 18,52, John H. White; 1853, Lemuel 
B. Pike; 1854, John B. Felshaw ; 185.5, John T. Carr; 1856, John R. Putnam; 
18.57, Joseph D. Briggs; 1858, John H. White; 18.59, Wm. C. Barrett; 1880, 
Jerome B. Buckbee; 1861, Esek Cowen; 1862, Joseph D. Briggs; 1863, Wm. C. 
Barrett; 1864, Silas H. Peters, Lewis Varney; 1865, Lewis Varney, John B. Fin- 
ley; 1866, J. S. B Scott; 1867. Wm. C. Barrett; 1868, Elias H. Peters (appointed); 
1869, Anson W. Boyce, James M. Andrews; 1870, Phineas F. Allen; 1871, John 
Foley; 1872, Lewis Wood; 1873, Wm. C. Barrett; 1874, Phineas F. Allen; 1875, 
Augustine W. Shepherd; 1876, Thomas G. Young; 1877, Chas. M. Davison, Wm. C. 
Barrett (long term); 1878, Lewis Wood; 1879, Michael G. Berrigan ; 1880. John L. 
Henning; 1881, Wm. C. Barrett; 1882, Frank M. Jenkins; 1883, David Maxwell; 
1884, Wm. A. Pierson; 1885, Daniel E. Wing; 1886, Frank M. Jenkins; 1887, David 
Maxwell; 1888, James F. Swanick; 1889, George A. Swart; 1890, Frank M. Jenkins 
(long term), James T. Brusnihau (short term); 1891, John F. Sullivan; 1892, Joseph 
P. Brennan; 1893, Wm. D. McNulty ; 1894. Frank M. Jenkins; 1895, Frank H. Mc- 
Donald; 1896, Frank Gick; 1897, John H. Morris; 1898, Charles B. Andrus. 



336 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Police Justices. 

1848-1849, Abel R. Plunkett; 1850-1853, Abel A. Kellogg; 1854-1861, Matthias A. 
Pike; 1862-1863, John H. White; 1864-1865, Wm. H. Searing; 1866-1867 Patrick H. 
Cowen; 1868-1869, Win. C. Barrett; 1870-1875, James S. B. Scott; 1876, John H. 
White (died in office); 1877-1879, Charles H. Tefft, jr. (appointed to fill vacancy; 
and regularly elected in 1878); 1880-1883, Augustine W. Shepherd; 1884-1887, John 
L. Barbour; 1888-1889, Win. A. Pierson; 1890-1893, Chas. Allen; 1893, George A. 
Swart (appointed vice Allen resigned); 1894-1895, John M. Fryer; 1896-1897, George 
A. Swart; 1897, Wm. D McNulty (appointed Dec. 1, 1897, to fill vacancy caused by 
death of George A. Swart; served till March, 1898); 1898, Wm. J. Delaney. 

Collectors. 

1820. John Bemus; 1821-1836, Joseph White; 1827-1838, Joshua Bliven ; 1839-1831, 
Eli Holbrook; 1832, Joshua Bliven; 1833, Joseph White; 1834, Lucien Hendrick; 
1835-1836, Daniel Wait; 1837, Joseph Brisbin ; 1838, Marvin S. Putnam; 1839-1840, 
Amasa Patrick; 1841 Daniel Potts; 1843, Clement Gibbs; 1843-1844, William C. 
Owen; 1845, William Wait; 1846, William A. Muredell; 1847, John B. Felshaw; 1848, 
Hiram Owen; 1849, George Burnham; 1850, Daniel D. Eddy ; 1851, George Burn- 
ham; 1853-1854, Gardner Bullard; 1855, Riley V. Surdam ; 1856. John Rouse; 1857- 
1858, Joseph H. Hodgeman; 1859, Ezra Hall; 1860, Charles W. Whitford ; 1861, 
Charles H. Brown; 1863, Alfred P. Mallory; 1863, Thomas Eldredge ; 1864, Charles 
W. Whitford; 1865, A. P. Mallory; 1866, Daniel T. Rockwell; 1867, Calvin M. Avery; 
1868, John Foley; 1869, Harmon S. Hoyt; 1870, Jonathan S. Howland; 1871, Will- 
iam F. Calkins; 1873, William E. De.xter.' 

Receivers uf Ta.\es. 

1872-1874, William E. Dexter; 1875-1878, Lewis Wood; 1879-1881, L. H. Cramer; 
1882-1885, Lewis Wood; 1886-1887, Thomas Douglas; 1888-1891, Byran J. Town; 
1892-1894, Patrick F. Roohan ; 1895-1897, Byron J. Town; 1898, William B. Milliman. 

TOWN OF MILTON. 

The town of Milton is second in importance to Saratoga Springs in 
point of population and wealth, but probably the first town in the 
county in the extent and value of its manufactures. Milton is bounded 
on the north by Greenfield, on the east by Saratoga Springs and Malta, 
on the south by Ballston and Charlton, and on the west by Galway. It 
contains 20,935 acres. The Revised Statutes describe the town as fol- 
lows: 

The town of Milton shall contain all that part of said county bounded northerly by 
Greenfield, easterly by the east line of the fourteenth allotment of die Kayadrossera 
patent and the same continued to the north line of the sixteenth allotment, southerly 
by a line beginning in the southeast corner of the fourteenth allotment of the Kaya- 

' The office of collector was abolished in 1872, and was succeeded by that of receiver of ta.\es. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— MILTON. 337 

drossera patent and running thence west along the bounds of the said allotment to 
the middle of the south bounds of lot number nine in the subdivision of the allot- 
ment aforesaid, and westerly by a line running from thence due north to the south- 
west corner of the town of Greenfield. 

The surface of the town is undulating in the south and moderately 
hilly in the north. The Kayaderosseras creek flows southeasterly 
through the center of the town, turning, at Ballston Spa and flowing 
easterly through Saratoga Springs into Saratoga lake. Gordon creek, 
which joins Kayaderosseras from the west at Ballston Spa, is one of its 
principal tributaries. The water power furnished by the Kayaderos- 
seras has been employed from the days of earliest settlement, and 
along its banks are nearly a score of extensive mills and factories. The 
Delaware and Hudson Canal Company's railroad passes westerly and 
northeasterly through the southeast corner of the town. 

The earliest settlements in Milton were made at Milton Hill and a short 
distance north of that point. Just before the Revolution David Wood 
and his sons, Stephen, Benjamin, Elijah, Nathan and Enoch, pur- 
chased UOO acres at Milton Hill and moved into the town. Justus 
Jennings, a Revolutionary soldier, settled near Hop City about K'83. 
About the same time Sanborn Ford located at Spier's Corners. Abel 
Whalen built a home near him about the same time. Benajah Douglas, 
grandfather of Hon. Stephen A. Douglas, built a log house in 1787 
near the old public spring at Ballston Spa, for the accommodation of 
visitors. This spring was discovered in 1769 while men were at 
work surveying the Kayaderosseras patent. Several other springs 
were subsequently discovered near by in the same valley. In 1817 
four springs, within twenty feet of one another, were discovered in 
the bed of the stream (Gordon creek). Soon afterward their water 
became fresh. 

Benajah Douglas's house was the first tavern in Milton. In 1793 
Nicholas Low built a tavern just east of that of Douglas. Mr. Douglas 
built a more commodious house in 1792 and 1793, and the year follow- 
ing summer visitors from all sections began to pour into the village to 
drink of the waters of the then famous mineral springs. In 1803 Mr. 
Low built the Sans Souci hotel, a spacious and elegant hostelry for 
those days.' Several other hotels were built after this, and several 
boarding houses were also opened. The Sans Souci hotel entertained 

* This hotel underwent many changes. Tiie last hotel was torn down In 1887, and the follow- 
ing year the Sans Souci Opera House block was built in the western part of the site it had occu- 
pied. 

22 



338 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

many of the most noted men of those days, including' Joseph Bona- 
parte in 1837. While he was visiting here a messenger brought him 
the letter announcing the death of Napoleon Bonaparte at St. Helena. 

Hezekiah Middlebrook built a grist mill in 1799 or 1800 above the 
site of the present blue mill on the Kayaderosseras. Saw mills and 
grist mills were located at Rock City Falls, then known as Hatch's 
Mills, before 1800. This was the first use of the fine water power at 
that point. Epenetus White, Mr. Warren and Mr. Sears had stores 
early in the century on the low ground near the original spring at 
Ballston Spa. 

Beside the five churches at Ballston Spa, there have been in the town 
St. James' Protestant Episcopal church at Milton Centre, founded in 
1796; the Presbyterian church at Milton Hill, organized in 1791, be- 
came extinct in 1840; the Baptist church near Rock City known as the 
" stone church," organized about 1798; the Presbyterian church of West 
Milton, organized soon after the Revolution; the M. E. church at Rock 
City Falls, organized in 1844, and the Catholic church of Rock City 
Falls, organized in 1872. 

Ballston Spa, the county seat of Saratoga county, is the principal 
village in Milton, though a part of the corporate limits of the village 
extend into the town of Ballston. Its early settlement has been re- 
ferred to in the foregoing. The village is located in the extreme south- 
eastern part of the town. The village was incorporated March 21, 1807, 
and at the first village election, held the first Tuesday in May following, 
these officers were elected: 

Trustees. Joshua B. Aldridge, Stephen H. White, Nathan Lewis; assessors, John 
Warren, David McMaster, Archy Kasson ; treasurer, Epenetus White, jr. ; collector, 
Eli Barnum; clerk, William Shepherd; constables, Elihu Roe, Sarais Blakely. 

Previous to 1842 no president was elected, the three trustees being 
equal in authority. In 1842 the number of trustees was increased to 
five, and thereafter a president was elected annually by the board at its 
first meeting. Subsequently the presidents were, and now are, elected 
annually by the people. The following have been the presidents of the 
village since 1842: 

1842-43, James M. Cook; 1844, Reuben Westcot; 1845, James M. Cook; 184G-47, 
Abel Meeker; 1848, Samuel H. Cook; 1849, Abel Meeker; 1850. George Thompson; 
1851, Reuben Westcot; 1853, George Babcock; 1858, William P. Odell ; 1854, Law- 
rence W. Bristol; 1855, Reuben Westcot; 185G, Edward H. Chapman; 1857, James O. 
Leach; 1858, Edward Gilbourn; 1859, Seymour Chase; 1860, Hiro Jones; 1861, John 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— MILTON. 339 

H. Westcot; 1862, David Maxwell; 1803, Levi Weed; 1864, John Wait; 1865, David 
Maxwell; 1866-67, John H. Westcot; 1808-69, George G. Scott; 1870-73, Henry A. 
Mann; 1874, Albert P. Blood; 1875, Henry A. Mann; 1876-77, Stephen C. Medbery; 
1878-81, Alonzo M. Shepherd; 1883, Jeremiah Griffin; 1883-84, Alfred N. Wiley; 1885, 
Stephen C. Medbery; 1886, Rush H. Young; 1887-89, Stephen C. Medbery; 1890, 
Alonzo M. Shepherd; 1891, Abijah Comstock; 1893, Douglas W. Mabee; 1893, Charles 
O. McCreedy; 1894-95, Eben S. Lawrence; 1896, Thomas Finley; 1897-98, Douglas 
W. Mabee. 

The prosperity of the villag;e was due at first to the presence of the 
excellent mineral springs discovered there; but, secondly, and most 
important, to the splendid water power of the Kayaderosseras creek. 
Along- this creek numerous mills and factories were built at an early 
day, grist mills and saw mills being located there before 1800. Early 
in the century other industries were established there. The paper mills, 
which afford a means of livelihood to the town, were started before and 
during the war of the Rebellion. In ISiiG Jonathan S. Beach and Har- 
vey Chapman started a woolen mill on the island in the Kayaderosseras, 
and four years later they built a cotton mill near their first mill. In 
1844 they built a third mill, for cotton manufacture. The second mill 
mentioned was operated until 1861. Their third mill finally became 
the property of George West, who converted it into a paper mill. In 
1850 Beach & Chapman built the Glen woolen mill, which subsequently 
manufactured cloths and blankets. In 1875 George West, who already 
owned four paper mills, bought of Jonas A. Hovey the island mill he 
had purchased in 1861 of Beach & Chapman, and converted it into a 
plant for the manufacture of paper. He also bought the first mill re- 
ferred to, the Union mill, and the woolen mill; converted the latter 
into a paper bag mill, and leasing the cotton mill. The tannery of 
Haight & Co. was removed from Milton Centre to Ballston Spa in 1883 
and its facilities greatly increased. The axe and scythe shops at Blood- 
ville, a suburb of Ballston Spa, were established by Isaiah Blood in 1834. 

The county seat was removed from Court House Hill in Ballston to 
Ballston Spa after the burning of the original court house and jail in 
1817, The new court house in Ballston Spa was opened in the spring 
of 1819. The present court house was built in 1889. The first county 
clerk's office was built in 1824 on Front street. The present office west 
of the court house was erected in 1865-1 860 and first occupied in the 
summer of that year. 

A new union school building was erected on Bath street in 187:5-1874. 
Plans are now [1898] being made for increasing the school facilities of 



340 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the village. A "State and National Law School" was established in 
the old Sans Souci hotel in 1849 by John W. Fowler, but closed after a 
career of three years. 

There are five churches in Ballston Spa — Christ Protestant Episcopal _ 
church, founded at Ballston Centre in 1787, and removed to Ballston 
Spa in 1817, seven years after the organization of the original St. 
Paul's parish in this village; the First Baptist church, founded in 1701 ; 
the First Presbyterian church, founded in 183i; the M. E. church, 
founded in 1836, and St. Mary's Roman Catholic church, whose first 
edifice was erected in 1859. A new M. E. church was built in 1892- 
1893, and a new Baptist church in 1895-1896, and a new Catholic 
church in 1896. 

The Ballston Spa National bank was established in 1838, and the First 
National bank in 1865. 

Franklin lodge No. 90, F. & A. M., was instituted in 1843. It is 
the successor of Franklin lodge No. 37, instituted in the town of Balls- 
ton in 1794, and of Friendship lodge No. 18, instituted at Milton Hill 
in 1805, both of which early lodges had forfeited their charters. Among 
the numerous other thriving fraternal organizations in the village are 
Kayaderosseras lodge No. 17, I. O. O. F. , instituted January 9, 1844; 
Post William H. McKittrick No. 46, G. A. R., organized in May, 1875; 
Hermion lodge No. 90, K. of P., organized in December, 1873; the 
Utopian club; Ballston Spa Castle No. 3, K. of G. E. ; Home lodge 
No. 135, A. O. U. W. ; the Royal Templars of Temperance. The 
Ballston Spa fire department consists of Eagle Fire company No. 1, 
Union Fire company No. 2. and Matt Lee Hook & Ladder company 
No. 1. 

Factory Village and Bloodville are suburbs of Ballston Spa, and are 
inhabited, for the most part, by employes of the axe and scythe shop 
and the other industries of that locality. Factory Village was so named 
because of the two paper mills located there soon after the war. The 
paper mill there now is owned by the National Folding Box and Paper 
company of Hartford, Conn. Bloodville, which contains the immense 
plant of the American Edge Tool company, manufacturers of scythes 
and axes, was named after Isaiah Blood, the founder of the industry. 
Craneville, a hamlet, is located further up the Kayaderosseras. The 
paper mill at that point was purchased by George West soon after the 
war. Milton Centre is located in the centre of the town. Here Gen- 
eral James Gordon built a grist mill at the close of the Revolution. 




PETER BELLINGER, M. D. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— MILTON. 341 

The tannery of Samuel Haight, which was removed to Ballston Spa in 
1883, was located at this point for many years. West Milton is a con- 
solidation of Spier's Corners and Clute's Corners. Daniel Campbell 
built a grist mill there about 1798. Ezekiel Whalen opened the first 
store there. Rock City Falls is located at the upper water power of 
the Kayaderosseras. Rowland & Kilmer built a paper mill there in 
18-10, which afterwards was purchased by George West. Chauncey 
Kilmer has owned a paper mill there for several years. Hilton Hill is 
now hardly a hamlet. Rowland's Mills or Rowland Hollow is located 
in the eastern part of the town. It was named after H. R. Rowland, 
who built the early grist mills and saw mills there. 

The town was organized in 1892, at first including that portion of 
Greenfield which was a part of the old district of Ballston. Greenfield 
was erected in 1793, since which time the limits of the town have been 
unchanged. The records of the town clerk up to 1798 have been lost. 
The following have been the principal town officers since 1792, except- 
ing the clerks from 1792 to 1798: 

Supervisors. 

1793, John Ball; 1793-94, Abel Whalen; 1795-96, Elisha Powell; 1797-99, Walter 
Patchin; 1800-01, Henry Frink; 1803-03, Jeremy Rockwell; 1804, Silas Adams; 1805- 
08, Elisha Powell; 1809-12, Joel Keeler; 1813-15, Daniel Couch, jr.; 1816-18, Joel 
Keeler; 1819-31, Thomas Dibble; 1823-33, Thomas Palmer; 1833-37, Isaac Frink; 
1838, James M. Cook; 1839, Abraham Middlebrook; 1840-41, Sylvester Blood ; 1843- 
43, Hiram Rowland; 1844-45, James M. Cook; 1846, Hiram Wood; 1847, Isaiah 
Blood; 1848, Daniel W. Culver; 1849, John Talmadge; 1850-51, James Ashman; 
1852, Daniel W. Culver; 1853, George W. Ingalls; 1854, John W. Thompson; 1855, 
Johns. Jones; 1856, D. W. Culver; 18.57, G. W. Ingalls; 1858, Wilham T. Odell ; 
1859, Isaiah Blood; 1860, William T. Odell; 1861, G. W. Ingalls; 1863, George W. 
Chapman; 1863, Corn well M. No.xon; 1864-65, Edwin H. Chapman; 1866-68, Hiro 
Jones; 1869-70, Isaiah Blood; 1871, Hiro Jones; 1873, Clarence B. Kilmer; 1873, 
John McLean; 1874-75, George West, jr.; 1876-79, George L. Thompson; 1880, 
Truman C. Parkman ; 1881-84. George L. Thompson; 1885, Abijah Comstock; 1886, 
Martin Lee; 1887, John Richards; 1888-89, Abijah Comstock; 1890, William W. 
Sweet; 1891, Eben S. Lawrence; 1893, Frank J. Sherman ; 1893, Samuel Thompson ; 
1894-97, Frederick H. Beach ; 1898, Thomas Finley, 

Town Clerks. 

1799-1808, Ezekiel Whalen; 1809-12, Silas Wood; 1813-41, Alpheus Goodrich; 
1843. Horace Goodrich ; 1843-44, William T. Odell; 1845-46, Wheeler K. Booth ; 1847, 
David Maxwell; 1848, Samuel De Forest; 1849-53, John H. Westcot ; 1853, Seymour 
Chase ; 1854, Lawrence W. Bristol ; 1855, Peter C. Gordon ; 1856-65, Charles E. Jones ; 
1866-1867, Jonathan S. Smith; 1868, Joseph H. Thomas; resigned, and Seth Whalen 



342 OUR COU.NTV AXI) ITS PEOPLE. 

appointed in his place ; 1869-70. William G. Ball; 1871, John V. N. Barrett; 1873, 
William G. Ball; 1873, George W. Oakley; 1874, W. B. H. Outt; 1875-76, Leverett 
J. Seeley; 1877, W. H. Chapman; resigned, and James W. Morris appointed; 1878, 
John L. Carlin; 1879, James E. Lee; 1880-82, William S. Waterbury; 1883-84, Her- 
bert C. Westcot; 1885-86, Frank D. Groat; 1887-88, Edwin F. Howard; 1889, Jesse 
Young; 1890, John Augustus Raymond; 1891, Braman Ayers, jr. ; 1893-93, John D. 
Wait; 1894 to date, James Munn. 

Justices ok the Peace. 

1830, Alpheus Goodrich; 1881, William J. Angle; 1833, Thomas Palmer; 1833, 
Oran G. Otis, Daniel Couch; 1834, Alpheus Goodrich; 1835, William J. Angle; 1836, 
George G. Scott; 1837, James Ladow; 1838, Eliphalet St. John; 1839, William J. 
Angle; 1840, G. G. Scott; 1841, James Ladow; 1842, Abram T. Davis; 1843, William 
J. Angle; 1844, G. G. Scott; 1845, Ezra Westcot; 1846, David Maxwell; 1847, Hen- 
ry Crippen ; 1848, Callender Beecher; 1849, Le Grand Johnson; 1850, David Max- 
well, Ezra Westcot, Samuel De Forest; 1851, Daniel Bronson ; 1853. Charles D. 
Allen, M. L. Williams, William Wilson; 1853, Ezra Westcot; 1854, Augustus E. 
Brown; 1855, James Ladow, Abraham Middlebrook; 1856, David Maxwell; 1857, 
Henry Crippen ; 18.58, Seymour Chase; 1859, James Ladow; 1860. David Maxwell; 
1861, Seth Whalen; 1863, David Morris; 1863, James Ladow; 1864. David Maxwell, 
Solomon A. Parks; 1865, Corn well M. Noxon; 1866, Aaron G. Waring; 1867, James 
Leggett, Charles H. Wickham; 1868, David Maxwell; 1869, Seth Whalen; 1870, 
Samuel D. Sherman; 1871, James Leggett; 1873, David Maxwell; 1873, Stephen B. 
Jackson, Jacob S. Settle; 1874, Daniel Boyce ; 1875, David Morris; 1876, Theodore 
Hamilton; 1877, John H. Smith, Palmer S. Kilmer; 1878, Samuel D. Sherwood (full 
term), James Miller (short term); 1879, James A. Burnham (full term), Thomas Fin- 
ley, William W. Sweet, James McFarland (all .short term); 1880, David Morris; 1881, 
Oscar W. Brown; 1883, J. Albert Cipperly (full terra), George W. Maxon (short term); 
1883, John H. Smith (full term). Silas H. Torrey (short terra); 1884, George W. 
Maxon; 1885. Oscar W. Brown; 1886, Silas H. Torrey; 1887. Calvin Whiting; 1888, 
Horace E. McKnight; 1889, George R. Beach (full term), Brightraan Briggs (short 
term); 1890, John Pierson (short terra and long term); 1891, Brightman Briggs; 1893, 
Thomas Finley; 1893, Obed R. Mosher (full term), Frank H. Brown (short term); 
1894, Charles R. Clapp; 1895, Andrew Benton; 1896, Willard W. Brown (full term), 
Edward S. Coons (short term); 1897, Clarence B. Kilmer; 1898, Edwin R. Quacken- 
bush (full term), Willard W. Brown and Charles Van Buren (short term). 

Police Justices. 

Under a special statute the town was authorized, in 1863, to elect a 
police iustice once in every two years. Those serving in that office have 
been : 

1863-66, David Maxwell ; 1867-74, John B. McLean ; 1875, G. W. Hall (resigned 
and Alvah C. Dake appointed in his place); 1877-78, A. C. Dake; 1879-84, John 
H. Smith; 1885-88, Silas H. Torrey; 1889-94, James H. Burnham; 1895-96, George 
L. Lewis; 1897-98, Andrew J. Freeman. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— WATERFORD. 843 

TOWN OF WATERFORD. 

The town of Waterford occupies the extreme southeastern corner of 
the county. Its area is the smallest of any of the twenty towns in the 
county, being but seven square miles. It is bounded on the north by 
Halfmoon, on the east by the Hudson river, on the south and west by 
the Mohawk river. The Revised Statutes define the limits of Water- 
ford as follows: 

The town of Waterford shall contain all that part of said county beginning in the 
bounds of the county in the Mohawl: river, at the mouth of a certain creek or run 
of water which crosses the road leading from the village of Waterford to Balls- 
ton, at the foot of the hill a little to the northwestward of the dwelling house now or 
late of Claudius Stannard, and running up the said creek to where it crosses the 
road as aforesaid; then south seventy three degrees and thirty minutes east one 
hundred and sixtj^ chains and thirty links to where a creek called the Mudder Kill 
intersects the public road leading from the village of Waterford to Stillwater; then 
down the said Mudder Kill to its entrance into Hudson river; then east to the bounds 
of the county; and then along the bounds of the county southerly and westerly to 
the place of beginning. 

The surface of the town lies mostly from fifty to one hundred feet 
above the Hudson river. An almost perpendicular range of slate 
bluffs extend along the Mohawk, and the Hudson valley is bordered 
by a range of low clay hills. The soil is exceedingly fertile, especially 
the flats occupying that part of the town north of Waterford village. 

One of the finest water powers in the world is furnished by the 
Cohoes falls in the Mohawk. The Albany branch of the Delaware & 
Hudson railroad enters the town from Cohoes and a mile above the 
village joins the Troy branch of the same road, which enters the 
southern part of the village within three hundred feet of the Hudson. 
From Waterford Junction the road extends northerly through the town. 
The Champlain canal traverses the town from north to south. 

The survey of the Van Schaick patent, which included the present 
towns of Waterford and part of Halfmoon, reads as follows, viz. : "The 
boundaries of a certain parcel of land in the county of Albany, con- 
firmed under Anthony Van Schaick, by Governor Charles Dongan, 31st 
May, 1687. A certain parcel or tract of land, and being to the north 
and above the town of Albany, and is commonly called and known by 
the name of Half-Moon, which stretches up alongst the north river, 
from a certain place where are several streams of water, to a creek or 
kill where there is a fall of water which, running into the land, hath its 
course into the north river; the said creek, or kill, and fall being by 



344 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the Indians called Tieuwenendahow; and from thence runs up the 
Macjuas-Kill westward, to a place called Dowaelsoiaex, and so strikes 
presently eastward up along by the said stream and then to the north 
river aforementioned." 

The first settlements in Saratoga county were made in Waterford, 
then called Half Moon Point, a few years after the early settlements at 
Albany. The site for the village was purchased in 1784 by Colonel 
Jacobus Van Schoonhoven and several others, and settlers came rapidly 
to occupy the building sites offered. Van Schoonhoven was probably 
the first merchant and innkeeper in town. Numerous small manufac- 
turing concerns were established in town at a very early day, but the 
industrial development was not very great until after the completion 
of the hydraulic canal in 1829. Two years later the manufacture of fire 
engines was begun, and the product since turned out has made the 
name of Waterford famous throughout the country. 

The pioneer religious society of Waterford, which has been extinct 
for many years, was the Reformed Dutch church, which probably was 
established long before the Revolutionary period. Of the other 
churches in town, Grace Protestant Episcopal church was founded in 
1810, the Presbyterian church about 1703, the Baptist church in 1821, 
the Methodist church in 1830, and the Catholic church soon after the 
Civil war. 

Waterford is the principal village in the town, and the oldest in the 
county, having been incorporated in 1801. The first trustees were 
Hezekiah Ketchum, Jacobus Van Schoonhoven, Matthew Gregory, 
Isaac Keeler, John Peltit, Duncan Oliphant and Thomas Smith. Un- 
fortunately the village records were destroyed in the great fire of 1841. 
Since that year the presidents of the village have been: 

John House, 1841; John Stewart, 1846-47; John Knickerbacker, 1848-49; Jolin 
Wood, 1850; John Stewart, 1851; William H. King, resigned November, 1852; J. H. 
Cudworth, elected December, 1853 to fill vacancy; William Scott, 1853; John Law- 
rence 1854; John Cramer, 1855; L. G. Hoffman, 1856; John Stewart, 1857; Daniel B. 
King, 1858-65; E. B. Cole, 1866; John Titcomb, 1867-70; William Holroyd, 1871-72; 
Moses Bedell, 1873-74. died August 1, 1874; C. A. Waldron, elected August 5, 1874, 
to fill vacancy; Edward Stewart, 1876; David T. Lamb, 1877-78; John Proper, 1879; 
George Stewart, 1880; Gad H. Lee 1881-84, died August, 1884; William Holroyd, 
elected to fill vacancy; William Holroyd, 1885; Eli M. Powell, 1886-89; Jeremiah 
Husted, 1890; James W. Brooks, 1891-98. 

There are five churches in the village. The public school system 
is an excellent one. The union school is the outgrowth of tlie once 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— WATERFORD. 345 

famous Waterford academy. The latter institution, wliicli stood on 
the corner of Division and Sixth streets, where St. Mary's church now 
stands, was incorporated by the Legislature April 28, 1834, and ad- 
mitted by the Regents February G, 1839. William T. Seymour was 
principal in 1836-38; Samuel R. House, 1839-40, and William G. 
Lloyd, 1841-47. Tiie last few years of the career of the academy it 
was located in the building on Second street previously occupied by 
Mrs. Emma Willard. The Eumia Willard Female seminary, which 
subsequently removed to Troy, was at one time one of the most noted 
female schools in the United States. The Masonic lodge in the vil- 
lage was instituted in 1848. Waterford lodge, No. 231, LO.G.T., was 
organized in 186T, and Maple Valley lodge. No. 427, LO.O.F., in 1875. 
The Saratoga County bank was incorporated May 29, 1830, with a 
capital stock of $100,000, with John Knickerbacker as the first pres- 
ident. 

The Waterford Waterworks company was incorporated in 1885 and 
on October 6 of that year made its first contract with William Holroyd, 
then president of the village, to supply the village with water. Frank 
A. Hinds was the first president of the company. Water is pumped 
from the Hudson river to a standpipe on Prospect hill, three quarters 
of a mile from the village, whence it is distributed by mains. 

The Waterford town hall is a commodious building located on Broad 
street. The corner stone of the structure was laid September IG, 1873. 

Waterford's manufactures have always been of considerable impor- 
tance. The famous Button Fire Engine works were established in 1834. 
Holroyd's stock and die manufactory' in 1847, the straw board mill in 
1864, the Rock Island flour mills in 1847, the Gage machine works in 
1835, Frank Gilbert's Mohawk & Hudson paper mill in 1872, the Brooks 
nut factory in 1835, Van Schoonhoven & Co.'s knitting mill in 1875, 
the Franklin ink works in 1831, the Waterford sawing mills in 1872, 
the Globe Iron works in 1873, the Waterford soap and candle factory in 
1830, the Massasoit knitting mills in 1872, King's stock, die and tool 
works in 1829, the Mohawk & Hudson Manufacturing company in 1847, 
Van Kleeck's brush factory in 18G4, the Hudson Valley knitting com- 
pany in 1870, the Shawtemack mills in 1834, the Munson knitting mill 
in 1871, the Eureka knitting mills in 1881, the Waterford knitting 
company in 1885, the Bishopton knitting mill in 188G, the Kavanaugh 
knitting company in 1891, Sidney D. Sault's paper box manufactory in 
1892, the Clyde knitting company (successor to the Meeker, Spotten & 



346 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Meeker company) in 1892, the Clover knitting company (successor to 
the Hudson Valley knitting company) in 1897, the Ormsby Textile 
company in 1893, and the Eddy Valve company in 1891. 

The town of Waterford was not formed until several years after the 
incorporation of the village. It was originally known as Half Moon 
Point. The supervisors since that time have been: 

1816, John Cramer ; 1817-18, Jacobus Van Schoonhoven ; 1819, Daniel Van Alstine ; 
1820-35, William Given; 1826-28, Joshua Mandeville; 1829, Nathan Bailey; 1830, 
Joshua Bloore; 1831-33, Eli M. Todd; 1884, John Stewart; 1835, John Vernara ; 1836, 
Charles Scott; 1837, Joshua Bloore; 1838, Robert Blake; 1839, Joseph H. Cudworth; 
1840, James I. Scott; 1841-42, George W. Kirtland; 1843, William Scott; 1844, Will- 
iam T. Seymour; 1845-47, David Brewster; 1848, David T. Lamb; 1849, Abram L. 
Brewster; 1850, David T. Lamb; 1851-53, Daniel G. Smith; 1853, John Fulton; 1854, 
W. C. Vandenburgh; 1855, Joshua Mors; 1856-58, John Titcomb; 1859-66, David T. 
Lamb; 1867-70, Courtland Brewster; 1871-72, Thomas Breslin ; 1873-75, David T. 
Lamb; 1876, James H. Brewster; 1877-78, Henry C. Vandenburgh; 1879, John Law- 
rence; 1880-81, John B. Palmer; 1882-84, James H. Shine; 1885-90, John E. Gage; 
1891, Jeremiah Husted; 1892-97, Eli M. Powell; 1898, James H. Glavin. 

The following list of town clerks of Waterford is as nearly complete 
as it can be made from the records: 

1832-34, John Cramer, 2d; 1835-41, M. C. Powell; 1848-49, William A. Waldron; 
1850-52, Courtland Brewster; 1853, John Smith ; 1854, Lyman U. Davis; 1855, Charles 
E. Pickett; 1856-57, Millen Bedell; 1858-63, George S. Waterman; 1863-70, Samuel 
A. Northrop; 1871-75, George E. Pickett; 1876, Benjamin Singleton; 1877, Major B. 
Winchell; 1878, George E. Pickett; 1879-81, James H, Lloyd; 1882-83, Frederick W. 
Williams; 1884, Frank D. Barnfather; 1885, Thomas G. Dunwoody; 1886-87, Lewis 
S. Van Arnum; 1888-1889, Thomas G. Dunwoody; 1890-91, David D. Steenbergh ; 
1893, W. Frederick Lawrence; 1893-97, James H. Glavin; 1898, John G. Cole. 

The justices of the peace have been as follows: 

1848, Joseph H Cudworth; 1849, William T. Seymour; 1850, Charles Johnson ; 1851 
John Cramer, 2d; 1852, Robert Moe, Joshua M. Todd; 1853, Joseph H. Cudworth 
Cornelius A. Waldron; 1834, John Wood; 1855, John Cramer. 2d; 1856, Lewis G 
HoiTman; 1857, Chauiicey Sherman; 1858, James McKallor; 1859, John Cramer, 3d 
1860, Joseph H Cudworth; 1861, Chauncey Sherman; 1863, Anthony J. Brease;1803, 
John Cramer, 2d; 1864, Jo-seph H. Cudworth: 1835, Chauncey Sherman, Gad H. Lee 
1866, Gad H. Lee, John F. Pruyn ; 1867, John Cramer. 3d ; 1868, Pearl Spafford ; 1869 
J. F. Pruyn; 1870, PeteTQuackenbush ; 1871, John Cramer, 3d; 1873, John A. Waldron 
1873. Henry Foley, William Shepherd; 1874, Chauncey Sherman ; 1875, Peter Quack 
enbush; 1876, George S. Waterman; 1877, Charles W. Barringer; 1878, Henry Foley 
1879, Peter Quackenbush. Frank D. Peck; 1880, Frank D. Peck, John D. Lewis 
1881, Charles W. Barringer; 1883, Henry S. Tracy; 1883, William A. Dennis, John 
Evers; 1884, Benjamin Singleton; 1885, Charles W. Barringer; 1S86, William K. 
Mansfield; 1887, George E. Pickett; 1888, J. William Atkinson; 1889, Benjamin 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— SARATOGA. 347 

Singleton; 1890, William K. Mansfield: 1S91, John Evers; 1893. J. William Atkin- 
son; 1893, Benjamin Singleton; 189-1, William K. Mansfield; 1895, Frederick W. 
Kavanaugh; 1896, J. William Atkinson ; 1897, William German; 1898, William K. 
Mansfield. 

The term of the police jtistice's office is two years. The incumbents 
of this office have been : 

1879-80, Henry Foley; 1881-82, George E. Pickett; 1883-84, Henry Foley; 1885-90, 
Charles McKallor; 1891-92, William Curtis, sr. ; 1893-90, George E. Pickett; 1897-98, 
Michael Brown. 

TOWN OF SARATOGA. 

The town of Saratoga, commonly known as Old Saratoga, to dis- 
tinguish it from the town of Saracoga Springs, which originally formed 
a part of this town, occupies the centre of the eastern tier of towns. It 
is bounded on the north by Wilton and Northumberland, on the east by 
the county line (the Hudson river), on the south by Stillwater, and on 
the west b)^ Saratoga Springs and Malta, part of the two latter towns 
consisting of the water of Saratoga lake. The Revised Statutes de- 
scribe the town as follows: 

The town of Saratoga shall contain all that part of said county bounded northerly 
by Northumberland and Wilton, easterly by the east bounds of the county, southerly 
by Stillwater, and westerly by Saratoga Springs and Malta. 

The eastern part of the county, bordering on the Hudson river, is 
flat. The central and western parts are occupied by a range of hills 
extending north and south. Most of the land is productive. Saratoga 
lake forms the southern half of the western boundary. Fish creek, the 
principal stream, is the outlet of the lake, and flows easterly into the 
Hudson through the northern part of the town. The Quaker mineral 
springs, three in number, lie a short distance southeast of the centre 
of the town. 

Saratoga is the most historic town in the county. Settlement was 
begun in the latter part of the seventeenth century. As early as 1687 
Governor Dongan endeavored to persuade a band of Christian Iroquois, 
whom the French missionaries had led to Caughnawaga, on the St. 
Lawrence, to return and settle in Saratoga under English protection, 
that they might form a barrier between Albany and the hostile French 
and Indians of the north. Here, in February, 1690, Lieut. Le Moyne 
de St. Helene with his band of Canadian Indians left for Schenectady, 
where they committed the historic massacre. Here, too, in the sum- 



348 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

mer of the same year Major Peter Schuyler of Albany, with some 
Dutch troops, erected a small fort and named the place Seraghtoga. 
In 1709 Schuyler, now a colonel in command of the advance guard of 
the second great army of northern invasion, built another fort, on the 
east side of the river. It was in this town, too, that one of the most 
important battles in the world's history was fought — the conflict which 
resulted in the surrender of Burgoyne's army of invasion in 1777. 
During the French and Indian wars Saratoga was in the direct path 
trod by many armies whose operations resulted in transferring all the 
territory south of Canada to the English crown. 

The pioneer settler in the town probably was Bartel Vroman, who 
located on the bank of the river as early as 1689, perhaps before that 
date. As early as 1709 or 1710 it is believed that representatives of the 
famous Schuyler family built mills and other buildings on the south 
side of Fish creek, near the historic Schuyler mansion. In 1745, at the 
attack upon old Fort Saratoga, several saw mills and other buildings 
upon Fish creek and the Hudson river were burned, and about thirty 
families were killed or taken prisoners. At this time Captain Peter 
Schuyler was killed in his own house. But we have no record of 
the names of these victims, most or all of whom may have been set- 
tlers in this town. After the peace of 1763 between France and Eng- 
land settlers began coming into the town in large numbers. Among 
them were Abraham Marshall, Thomas Jordan, John Strover, Heze- 
kiah Dunham and James I. Brisbin The western part of the town was 
not settled until the close of the Revolution. About 1790 Jesse Toll 
built mills at Grangerville. The first tavern in Schuylerville was 
opened about 1800 by Mrs. Taylor, a widow. About 1813 Daniel Pat- 
terson built a tavern on the site of the Schuylerville house. Madame 
Riedesel's letters refer to a tavern just below Schuylerville kept by a 
man named Smith. Tiie first store in town was probably kept by John 
Douglas. Two branches of the Fitchburg railroad run through the 
town, and the Champlain canal traverses the eastern part of the town, 
running north and south. 

Schuylerville is the most important village in the town. It was in- 
corporated April 16, 1831. The first officers, elected June 7, following, 
were: Trustees, Gilbert Purdy, Richard W. Livingston, James Strang, 
Cornelius Letcher, John Fonda; treasurer, Ira Lawrence; collector, 
David Williams. The trustees elected Gilbert Purdy president and 
James Strang clerk. The village enjoyed a great impetus to its in- 





7- ^. ■'' 


\ r- 





RANSOM SUTFIN. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— SARATOGA. 349 

dustries upon the opening of the Champlain canal, and is now a manu- 
facturing town of considerable importance. It contains six churches — 
the Reformed Dutch church, organized in 1773; the Baptist church, 
1790; the M. E. church, 1827; the Episcopal church, 184G; the Roman 
Catholic Church of the Visitation, 1845-1847; and Notre Dame- Catho- 
lic church, 1889. It also contains a fine public school system under the 
direction of Prof. R. H. Whitbeck. The National bank was organized 
in 1853. There are several thriving fraternal organizations in town. 
The paper mills were founded by D. A. Bullard & Co. in 1863. In 
1832 David B. French established a foundry there. The Iloricon cot- 
ton mills were established in 1828. The State dam across the Hudson 
at this point was built in 1871-1873 by Dennison, Belden & Gale of 
Syracuse. Following its construction numerous new industries were 
established at or near Schuylerville. One of the most important of 
these is the concern known as the Thomson Pulp and Paper company, 
incorporated June 11, 1888, by Lemon Thomson, John A. Dix, Curtis 
N. Douglass and J. D. Powers. The capital stock is $100,000. The 
village has an excellent fire department, which has made itself famous. 
The first company was organized August 15, 1836. The hand engine 
owned by the village for many years held the world's record, having 
thrown a stream of water 235 feet in the air several years ago, at Coney 
Lsland, N. Y. 

Victory Mills is a suburb of Schuylerville, lying just south of that 
village. Here the Saratoga Victory Manufacturing company estab- 
lished immense mills in 1840. The original capital invested was $425,- 
000, but large amounts have since been expended. The village was 
incorporated in 1849, when William E. Miner, Patrick Cooney, George 
McCreedy, Russell Carr and Benjamin Kelsey were chosen trustees, 
William E. Miner, president and James Cavanaugh, clerk. 

Coveville, Grangerville, Quaker Springs and Dean's Corners are ham- 
lets. Coveville is on the C'namplain canal in the southern part of the 
town. Quaker Springs is southeast of the centre and Dean's Corners 
west of the centre. Grangerville is on Fish creek. 

The town was organized March 7, 1788, as a town of Albany county. 
It had a district organization as early as 1772. In 1791 it became a 
town of the newly erected county of Saratoga, but then comprised the 
territory now within the towns of Saratoga, Saratoga Springs, North- 
umberland, Moreau and Wilton, and parts of Malta and Greenfield. 
In 1789 the town of Easton, in Washington county, had been taken off. 



350 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

A part of Greenfield was taken off in 1793, all of Northumberland 
(which then included Moreau and Wilton) in 1798, a part of Malta in 
1805, and Saratoga Springs in 1819. The records of the first and many 
other town meetings have been lost. The following is a list of the 
supervisors of Saratoga since 1789: 

1789-91, John B. Schuyler; 1792-94, Ale.xauder Bryan; 1795, John B. Schuyler; 
1796-1800, Daniel Bull; 1801-04, Jesse Mott; 1805, James Brisbin, jr.; 1806, Thomas 
Ostrander; 1807-09, George Cramer; 1810-13, William Wait; 1814. George Cramer; 
181.5, Jonas Olmstead; 1816-17, William Wait; 1818-19, Jesse Mott; 1820, Harvey 
Granger; 1821, George Cramer; 1823, Philip Schuyler; 1828, Daniel Morgan, jr. ; 1824. 
George Cramer; 1825-30, Daniel Morgan, jr. ; 1831-32, Walter Van Veghten ; 1833, 
James Mott; 1834, Henry D. Chapman; 1835-36, Daniel Morgan, jr.; 1837, William 
Wilcox; 1838, John B. Wright; 1839, Daniel Morgan; 1840, Samuel J. Mott; 1841, 
Henry D. Chapman; 1842-43, William Wilcox; 1844, Mayo Pond; 1845, Daniel 
Morgan; 1846, Phineas Richardson ; 1847, George W. Lester; 1848-49, Henry Holmes; 
1850-51, S. H. Dillingham; 18,52, Henry Holmes; 1853, Samuel J. Mott; 1854, Phin- 
eas Richardson ; 1855, John Lewis; 1856, Peter J. Cook; 1857, Ralph Brisbin; 1858- 
59, Peter J. Cook; 1860, George W. Wilcox; 1861, Samuel J. Mott; 1862-66, William 
P. Ostrander; 1867, Thomas Sweet; 1868-69, Edmond Raymond; 1870, George F. 
Watson; 1871-72, Henry C. Holmes; 1873-75, Douw F. Wmney; 1876, John H. De 
Ridder; 1877, William H. Smith; 1878, Daniel A. Bullard; 1879-81, Charles H. At- 
well; 1882, James B. Bailey; 1883, John H. De Ridder; 1884-86, Charles H. Sarle; 
1887-88, Hector A. McRae; 1889, Edward C. Bullard; 1890, James Mealey, 1891, 
Hector A. McRae; 1802, Charles M. Doolittle; 1893-95, George R. Salisbury; 1896- 
97, Elmer E. Baker; 1898, Jaquith. 

TOWN OF STILLWATER. 

Stillwater is one of the eastern tier of towns. It is bounded on the 
north by Saratoga, on the east by the county line, on the south by Half- 
moon and on the west by Malta. The Revised Statutes define the town 
as follows: 

The town of Stillwater shall contain all that part of said county bounded southerly 
by Halfmoon, easterly by the east bounds of the county, westerly by Malta, and 
northerly by the north bounds of lot number seventeen in Saratoga Patent, contin- 
ued in the same direction west to the town of Malta. 

The surface of the town is moderately hilly. The hills known as 
Bemus Heights lie partly in the northern part of the town. The flats 
along the Hudson are bordered by a range of bluffs from sixty to a 
hundred feet high. None of the streams are of importance. Saratoga 
lake occupies a small part of the northwestern corner of the town. 
Extending into the lake is a promontory known as Snake-head hill or 
Snake hill. At the south end of the lake is a famed mineral spring, 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— STILLWATER. 351 

known as the White Sulphur spring. In the .southwestern part of the 
town is a sandy tract interspersed with swamps. 

The first settlements north of Half-Moon Point, on the west side of 
the river, aside from those at Schuylerville, were made at Stillwater 
between 1730 and 1740. Forts had been erected in the town many 
years before. In 1709 Col. Peter Philip Schuyler built Fort Ingoldsby 
near the present site of Stillwater village. Isaac Mann, who located 
in town about 1750, was the first settler of whom anything definite is 
known. William Mead was an early innkeeper. Harmanus Schuyler, 
in 1770, built mills a short distance below the present village of Still- 
water. 

The industries of the town were greatly benefited by the opening of 
the Champlain canal, which traverses the eastern part of the town, 
running north and south. The Fitchburg railroad enters the town 
across the bridge at Stillwater, whence its branches extend southward 
to Mechanicville, and northwest to the shore of Saratoga lake. An 
electric railroad connects Stillwater and Mechanicville. 

Stillwater is the principal village. It is located near the centre of 
the eastern border of the town on the bank of the Hudson river. It was 
originally called Up-town, then Upton, as it was the first and for a long 
time the only settlement north of Waterford, excepting Schuylerville. 
A Presbyterian church and an Episcopal church were organized before 
1800, as was also a Masonic lodge, chartered in 1791, and a well patron- 
ized school. The village was incorporated in 1810. For many years, 
while Dirck Swart was county clerk, the county clerk's office was in 
the village. The first meeting of the board of supervisors of the 
county was held at his house in 1791. A fire company was organized 
and a hand engine purchased in 1875. Stillwater academy, founded in 
1847, was succeeded by the present union school system in 1873. The 
Congregational church, organized at Canaan, Conn., in 1752, removed 
to Stillwater in 1762; the First Baptist church was organized in 1762; 
the Presbyterian church in 1791; the Second Baptist church in 1836; 
the M. E. church in 1857, and the Catholic church in 1S7-1. 

The dam in the river at Stillwater furnishes power for a number of 
enterprises. Xewland & Denison established a knitting mill in 1873; 
William Mosher and Elihu Allen a paper mill in 1847; Ephraim New- 
land a hosiery mill in 1873; D. & W. Pemblc a straw-board mill in 
1866, and Gardner Howland & Sons a paper mill in 1863. The village 
now contains a new pulp and paper mill, two knitting mills, a flouring 



353 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

mill, two card board mills, two saw mills, a leather-board mill, a shank 
and counter mill, a dry dock and boat yard. 

Mechanicville lies partly in the town. The village is referred to 
more in detail in the gazetteer of Halfmoon. Ketchum's Corners is 
located in the northwest corner of the town. The Presbyterian church 
there was organized in 1866, and the M. E. church very early in the 
century. Wayville is a hamlet near by. Bemus Heights, Wilbur's 
Basin and Stillwater Centre are other hamlets in the town. 

The clerks of the town of Stillwater for many years have not kept 
the town records as the law provides, so it is impossible to give an 
authentic list of all the officers of the town. The list of supervisors 
was obtained from the county clerk's office. The names of the other 
town officers, as far as the records show, are also given. The super- 
visors have been : 

1791, Elias Palmer; 1792, Samuel Bacon; 1793-94, John Bleecker; 1795, Reuben 
Wright; 1796-98, Cornelius Vandenburgh; 1799-1804. John Hunter; 1805-18, Thomas 
Morey; 1819-30. Daniel Rogers; 1821-22, George Palmer; 1823, Richard Ketchum; 
1834, Daniel Rogers; 1825-33, George Palmer; 1834-37, Richard Ketchum; 1838, 
Abraham Leggett; 1839-45, Henry E. Barrett; 1846-48, William Baker; 1849, Abra- 
ham Y. Lansing; 1850, Abraham Leggett; 1851, Tyler Dunham; 1852, George W. 
Neilson ; 1853, Charles Moore; 1854, William Baker; 1855, William Denison ; 1856, 
Philip J. Powell; 1857, Edward Moore; 1858-59, Andrew Hunter; 1860, John W. 
Buffington; 1861-65, Henry W. Arnold; 1866-67, John T. Baker; 1868-70, Henry A. 
VanWie; 1871-72, John T. Baker; 1873-75, George A. Ensign; 1876, George W. 
Neilson; 1877, Lyman Smith; 1878, Peter A. Van Wie; 1879-80, William L. Deni- 
son; 1881, Edgar Holmes; 1883-83, Elias Hewitt; 1884-85, Clarence M. Curtis; 1886- 
87, Alfred P. Williams; 1888-89, William B. Neilson; 1890, Hiram Williams; 1891, 
Herbert O. Bailey; 1893, Alfred P. Williams; 1893, G. P. H. Taylor; 1894-95, Frank 
W. Neilson; 1896-97, John C. Baker; 1898, William S. Donnelly. 

The records show the names of the following town clerks: 

1795, Henry Davis; 1803, 1806 and 1807, William Seymour; 1809 and 1812, George 
Palmer; 1820, Charles Nelson ; 1821 to 1824, and 18-'6, William Seymour; 1834-36. 
Henry E. Barrett; 1837, Samuel F. Pruyn; 1838-1841, Ashbel Palmer; 1843-46, 
Morgan Munger; 1847, John Patrick; 1848, Archibald C. Tearse; 1849, John Hat- 
field; 1850-58, Morgan Munger; 1854, Ashbel Palmer; 1855-56, Lyman Smith; 1857, 
Jared W. Haight; 1858, Joseph Wood; 1859, J. W. Haight; 1860. Sylvenus Arnold; 
1861. George W. Flagler; 1863-68, Ashbel Palmer; 1869-73, Charles C. Neilson; 
1874, Joseph Wood; 1875-78, Morey G. Hewitt; 1886-93, Morey G. Hewitt; 1894-97, 
Frank Stumpf ; 1898, Wesley E. Stufflebean. Records missing, 1788 to 1794. 1796 to 
1803, 1804 to 1805, 1808, 1810 to 1811, 1813 to 1819, 1835, 1837 to 1833, and from 1879 
to 1886. 

The justices of the peace elected by the people, excepting those elected 
from 1879 to 188G, whose names are not obtainable, were as follows : 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— HALFMOON. 35;! 

1832. Ashbel Palmer; 1834, Cramer Vernam ; 1835, David Benedict; 1836, Ashbel 
Palmer; 1837, Richard Ketchum ; 1838, Cramer Vernam; 1839, David Benedict ; 1840, 
Ashbel Palmer; 1841, Charles Ensign; 1843, James Bradshaw; 1843, Hiram A. Fer- 
guson, George S. Finch; 1844, Ashbel Palmer, Alfred Elms; 1845, Samuel Cheever; 
1846, John Elmer; 1847, John W. Neilson ; 1848, Daniel Bradt, Thomas S. Gleason ; 
1849, William Denison; 1850 John Elmer; 1851. Samuel B. Hicks; 1853, Daniel 
Bradt, Alfred Elms; 1853, Alexander Flanney; 1854. Nathan Taber; 1855, Reuben 
H. Barber; 1856, Charles Moore, James Lee; 1857, Ale.xander W. Davis; 1.S58, John 
Elmer; 1859, R. H. Barber; 1860, Daniel Bradt; 1861, Theophilus Cook; 1863, John 
Elmer; 1863, R. H. Barber; 1864, Joseph Wood; 1865, Theophilus Cook; 1866, John 
Elmer; 1S67, R. H. Barber; 1868, Theodore Baker; 1869, Duncan Van Wie; 1870, 
John Elmer; 1871, R. H. Barber; 1872, Theodore Baker; 1873, Duncan Van Wie; 
1874, E. CorningChase; 1875, R. H. Barber; 1876, David A. Van Wie, Charles Hunt; 
1877, William S. Miller; 1878, Eugene E. Curtis; 1886, Eugene E. Curtis; 1887, 
Charles Hunt; 1888, David A. Van Wie; 1889 J. H. Massey; 1890, Eugene E. Cur- 
tis: 1891, Charles Hunt; 1893, George Perkins (short terni). B. E. Tabor (long term); 
1893, Roberto. Baxter; 1894,George Perkins; 1895, Charles Hunt ; 1896, B. E. Tabor ; 
1897, Robert C. Ba.xter; 1898, Eugene E. Curtis. 

TOWN OF HALFMOON. 

Halfmoon occupies a part of the southeastern corner of the county. It 
is bounded on the north by Malta and Stillwater, on the east by the 
east bounds of the county, on the south by Waterford and the sotith 
line of the county, and on the west by Clifton Park. The Revised 
Statutes define the town as follows: 

The town of Halfmoon shall contain all that part of said county bounded north- 
erly by Anthony's Kill, easterly by the east bounds of the county, southerly by 
Waterford and the south bounds of the county, and westerly by a line beginning at 
the outlet of Round Lake; then running south to the east side of William Gates' 
grist mill; then southerly through the centre of the mill pond across the bridge over 
said pond; then southerly to the west side of Joseph Merrill's dwelling house; then 
south to the Van Schaick line, then along said line to the Mohawk river, varying the 
same at the dwelling house of Ephraim Stevens so as to leave the same on the west 
side of the line. 

The surface is undulating and contains several small streams running 
in places through narrow ravines. The eastern section, extending 
along the river bank, is flat and fertile, as is most of the land. An- 
thony's creek and Dwaas' kill flow into the Hudson, and Steena kill 
into the Mohawk. The Erie canal passes through the western half of 
the southern part of the town, running nearly parallel to the Mohawk 
river. The Champlain canal traverses the eastern part of the town 
from north to south. The Delaware & Hudson Canal company's rail- 
road runs nearly parallel with this canal, and east of it, from Water- 

23 



354 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ford to Mechanicville, running thence in a westerly direction about 
parallel with the north line of the town. The Fitchburg railroad also 
extends westerly from Mechanicville nearly parallel with the northern 
line of the town. 

The earliest settlements in Halfmoon located on the banks of the Mo- 
hawk about 1680. Killiaen Vandenburgh built a home near Duns- 
bach's Ferry in 1718. The earliest building in Mechanicville doubtless 
was Gates's tavern. Henry Bailey had a tavern about a mile below, 
near the river, soon after the Revolution, perhaps earlier. Shubael 
Cross had another at Middletown before the Revolution. 

Mechanicville is the principal village in Halfmoon. It lies partly in 
the northeast corner of the town and partly in Stillwaier. It is a man- 
ufacturing and railroad centre of considerable importance. Here are 
located large shops of the Delaware & Hudson and the Fitchburg rail- 
roads, the immense plant of the Duncan company, manufacturers of 
fine paper; two large sash and blind factories, two large brick kilns, 
four knitting mills, a shirt factory, important lumber yards, a factory 
for manufacturing electrical goods, and other manufactures. The Dun- 
can company is supplied with power principally from a dam across the 
Hudson river. In 1897 and 1898 a second large dam was erected in the 
Hudson for the development of power for transmission to the works of 
the General Electric company at Schenectady, about fifteen miles away. 
The electric current will be transmitted from Mechanicville to Schenec- 
tady by heavy insulated wires. The village has excellent railroad fa- 
cilities, including, beside the steam roads mentioned, an electric line 
between Mechanicville and Stillwater. A line extending southward 
and connecting with Troy and Albany is in course of construction, and 
plans are being made for an extension to Saratoga Springs. The 
school system has undergone great improvements in recent years, and 
two new school buildings are soon to be constructed. There are five 
churches in the village — Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal, Presbyterian, 
Protestant Episcopal and Roman Catholic. There are also a Masonic 
lodge, and Odd Fellows lodge, three social clubs and several other fra- 
ternal organizations. It also has a well organized and equipped fire 
department. Mechanicville was not incorporated by law as a village 
until 1870. It was chartered by the County Court in July, 1859, and 
at the first election, September 10, following, ninety five votes were 
cast. These trustees were elected : Cyrus Gilbert, Stephen Burtis, 
Lewis Smith, Job G. Viall, A. A. Buckhout. The board of trustees 



i Q H 







%y 




EDWARD H. STRANG. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— HALFMOON. 305 

elected Lewis Smith chairman and William P. Harris clerk. Until 1870 
the chief executive officer of the village was the chairman or president 
of the board of trustees. These officers were: 

1859, Lewis Smith; 1863, William Clements; 18G3, Lyman Dwight; 1864, Isaac M. 
Smith; 186"), John W. Ensign; 1806, John Elmer; 1867, John C. Greene; 1868, John 
C. Greene (removed from village and succeeded by Alonzo Howland); 1869, Lewis 
E. Smith; 1870, William W. Smith, 

In 1870 the State Legislature granted a new charter foi' the village, 
when these officers were elected by the people direct : 

President, William W. Smith; trustees, William Johnson, Newton H. Ballon, 
William M. Warren, Charles Wheeler; clerk, J. Frank Terry; treasurer, Richard 
Richards ; collector, Michael Short. 

The following is a complete list of the village presidents since the in- 
corporation of Mechanicville: 

1871, William W. Smith; 1873-78, Lewis E. Smith; 1879, Newton H. Ballon; 1880, 
John C. Greene; 1881, Charles Wheeler; 1883, J. Frank Terry; 1883, Daniel E. 
La Dow; 1884. George R. Moore; 1885-86, George E. Lockwood; 1887, Obadiah 
Tompkins; 1888-89, William W. Smith; 1890. Edward H. Strang; 1891, John C. 
Greene; 1892, William C. Tallmadge; 1893, Herbert O. Bailey; 1894, John H. 
Massey; 1895, Albert H. Barnes; 1896, Hiram B. Mace; 1897, Emmons A. Starks; 
1898, William H. Allen. 

There are five hamlets in Halfmoon. Newton is located about two 
miles southwest of Mechanicville; Stnithtown about two miles south of 
Newton; Clifton Park west of the centre of the town near the Clifton 
Park town line; Crescent just north of the great bend in the Mohawk; 
and Middletown about a mile easterh- from Crescent. The First Bap- 
tist church of Halfmoon, located at Middletown, organized in 1835, 
succeeded the Baptist church at Newtown, long since extinct. The 
Second Baptist church of Halfmoon, at Clifton Park, was founded in 
1841, the M. E. church at Smithtown about 1870, the M. E. church at 
Crescent in 1852, the Reformed Protestant Dutch church of Middle- 
town (now extinct) in 1791, and the M. E. church at Coon's Crossing 
about 1858. 

Halfmoon was one of the original districts of Saratoga county, the 
other being Saratoga. In 1810 Waterford was set off, the name of 
Halfmoon then becoming Orange. The old name was restored in 1820. 
Clifton Park was taken off in 1828. The district of Halfmoon was or- 
ganized as a part of Albany county in 1772, as a town of Albany county 
in 1788, and as a town as at present constituted in 1828. In the follow- 



356 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ing list of supervisors, those serving from 1788 to 1838 came from various 
parts of the old town : 

1788-90, Jacobus Van Schoonhoven; 1791, Benjamin Rosekrans; 1793-94, Richard 
Davis, jr. ; 1795-1800, Benjamin Rosekrans; 1801-17, Zebulon Mott; 1818-20, Na- 
than Garnsey; 1821-37, David Garnsey; 1838-37, Asahel Philo; 1838-39, Isaac Smith; 

1840, Piatt Smith; 1841, Chauncey Boughton ; 1842^3, Abraham Travis; 1844-45, 
William Chute; 1846, Benjamin S. Cowles; 1847, David W. Wait; 1848, Lucius M. 
Smith; 1849-,50, James Noxon ; 1851-52, Stephen Emigh; 1853-54, Benjamin Wait ; 
1855, Shubael Taylor; 1856-57, Thomas Noxon; 1858, Nehemiah Philo; 1S59, Will- 
iam Cary; 1860-61, Thomas Noxon; 1862-63, C. J.Warrington; 1864^66, Thomas 
Noxon; 1867, John C. Greene; 1868, Charles H. Clute; 1869, Henry L. Haight; 
1870-71, M. O. Caldwell; 1873-73, Daniel R. White; 1874, Jacob C. Defreest;' 1875- 
76, Charles H. Clute; 1877-78, Henry L. Haight; 1879-82, George Rogers; 1883, 
Peter Smith; 1884-85, Cornelius R, Shefifer; 1886-87, Edward L. Haight; 1888-89, 
Melbourn H. Van Voorhees; 1890, Silas Hayner; 1891-97, Henry D. Safford; 1898, 
George H. Whitney. ~ 

The town clerks have been : 

1788-90, Jacob Fort; 1791-1818, Abraham Moe; 1819-21, Asahel Philo; 1833, 
Ephraim Stevens; 1833-31, Benjamin I. Hall; 1833, Nicholas Emigh, jr. ; 183.3-35, 
John P. Steenburgh; 1836-37, Robert Forbes; 1838-39, Chauncey Boughton; 1840- 
43, Nicholas E. Philo; 1844-45, Nehemiah Philo; 1846, Henry L. Landon ; 1847, 
Aaron A. Knight; 1848, Isaac Clements; 1849, James T. Wiley; 18.50, Lyman W. 
Clements; 1851-,53, L. B. Scherraerhorn; 1854-55, Selah Knight; 1856. Warren Ruli- 
son; 1857-59, C. J. Warrington; 1860, Henry Lape; 1861-63, Daniel R. White; 1863, 
Martin Sherman; 1864-67, Warren Rulison; 1868, M. O. Caldwell; 1869, James H. 
Clark; 1870, Jacob A. West; 1871, Warren Rulison; 1873-73, Jacob C. Defree.st; 
1874-75, S. S. Teachout; 1876-77, Henry Clark; 1878-82, J. Frank Terry; 1883-85, 
Edward L. Haight; 1886-90, William G. Davry; 1891-93, Norman W. Kelso; 1894- 
98, William T. Moore. 

The justices of the peace elected by the people have been : 

1831, William Fowler; 1832, William Clute; 1833, Stephen Varnum (or Vernam); 
1834, Asahel Philo ; 1835, William Fowler; 1836, Nathan A. Philo; 1837, Stephen 
Vernam; 1838, Benjamin S. Curtis; 1839, James Noxie; 1840, Nathan A. Philo; 

1841. James V. Bradshaw ; 1842, Stephen H. Sherman; 1843, Lewis E. Smith; 1844, 
Nathan A. Philo; 184.5, David W. Wait; 1846, B. S. Cowles; 1847, Moses Clements; 
1848, Eldert I. Van Woert; 1849, D. W. Wait; 1850, Samuel A. House; 1851, John R. 
McGregor; 1853, Abram Sickles; 1853, D. W. Wait; 18.54, Charles H. Fowler; 1855, 
William Ostrander, John O. Mott; 1856, Selah Knight; 18.57, William Hicks. Henry 
I. Dunsbach, Deodatus W. Hurd; 1858, Harmon J. Quackenbush ; 1859. Nathan Ta- 
bor; 1860, Abram Sickles; 1861, Samuel R. Mott; 1863, Melvin Van Voorhees; 1863, 
H. J. Quackenbush; 1864, Nathan F. Philo; 1865, Charles E. Dillingham, Smith L. 
Mitchell; 1866, James Clark; 1867, Charles E. Gor.sline, William Hicks; 1868, Selah 

* Died in office ; Charles H. Clute appointed to IiU out his term. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— BALLSTON. 357 

Knight; 1869, Charles E. Dillingham; 1870, Melvin Van Voorhees; 1871, Charles E. 
Gorsline, Charles E. Dillingham; 1873, Selah Knight; 1873, William A. T. Cassidy; 
1874, Melvin Van Voorhees"; 1875, William L. Potter; 1876, Selah Knight; 1877, Will- 
iam A. T. Cassidy; 1878. Henry Clark; 1879, William C. Tallmadge ; 1880, Selah 
Knight; 1881, William A. T. Cassidy; 1883, Henry Clark (long terra), William A. 
Mansfield (short term); 1883, William C. Tallmadge; 1884, James A. Knight; 1885, 
William A. T. Cassidy (long term), George W. Porter (short term); 1836, Fred I. 
Steenberg; 1887, Charles E. Hicks; 1888, George W. Porter; 1889, William A. T. 
Cassidy (long term), David F. Smith (short term); 1890, Fred 1. Steenberg; 1891, 
Nicholas Steenberg; 1892, John E. Thomson; 1893, John Baker; 1894, F. I. Steen- 
berg; 1895, David F. Smith; 1896, John E. Thomson; 1897, William A. T. Cassidy; 
1898, F. I. Steenberg. 

Under a law passed in 1894 a police justice has been elected every 
two years. In that year William G. Davey was elected to the office, 
and was re elected in 1896 and 1898. 

TOWN OF BALLSTON. 

The town of Ballston comprises the so-called " five-mile square," 
with a small addition to the south. It is bounded on the north by 
Milton, on the east by Malta, on the south by Clifton Park and Schen- 
ectady county, and on the west by Schenectady county and Charlton. 
The Revised Statutes define the town as follows: 

The town of Ballston shall contain all that part of said county comprehending the 
tract of land commonly called the five mile square, and the west line of the same ex- 
tended south to the bounds of the county; then along the bounds of the county to a 
line run from the south end of Long lake' south fifty-three degrees west; then along 
that line and the east shore of .said lake to the south bounds of the said five-mile 
square. 

The surface of Ballston is gently undulating. The Mourning kill" 
rises in the western part of the town and flows northeasterly through 
Ballston and Malta into the Kayaderosseras. The outlet of Ballston 
lake flows northeasterly, finally emptying into Round lake. Gordon 
creek is a small tributary of the Kayaderosseras rising in the north- 
western part of the town and flowing in a northeasterly direction. The 
Schenectady branch of the Delaware & Hudson Canal company's rail- 
road extends through the town from Ballston Lake station to Ballston 
Spa. The first settlement was made in 1763 by two brothers named 
Michael and Nicholas McDonald, who located near the west bank of 

' Now Ballston lake. 
* So named because of the tragedies which occurred during the early times in the section 
through which it runs. 



358 OUR COUXTY AND ITS PEOPI.E. 

Ballston lake. In 1770 Rev. EHphalet Ball, with his three sons — John, 
Stephen and Flamen — and several members of his congregation, re- 
moved from Bedford, N. Y., and settled in the vicinity of Academy 
Hill. Mr. Ball was induced to settle here by a donation of 500 acres 
of land from the proprietors of the five-mile square. He was the pas- 
tor of the first religious society formed in town. His father and Wash- 
ington's mother, Mary Ball, were first cousins. Soon after the arrival 
of the Ball family a large number of settlers came from New England, 
New Jersey, Scotland and the north of Ireland. Among these were 
General James Gordon, George Scott, Judge Beriah Palmer, Judge 
Epenetus White, Edward A. Watrous, Captain Kenneth Gordon and 
others. The Scotch families settled in Scotch Bush and Paisley Street. 
The first church in town (Presbyterian) was organized October 6, 1793. 
Ezekiel Horton was an early tavern keeper at Academy Hill. 

Ballston Spa is the principal village in the town. The larger portion 
of it lies within the limits of Milton. Christ Protestant Episcopal 
church stands just south of the Milton town line, in Ballston. V cor- 
ners is a hamlet half a mile further south. Ballston Lake is a hamlet 
at the west side of the south end of Ballston lake. Burnt Hills lies a 
mile west of Ballston Lake. East Line is a small hamlet about two 
and a half miles south of Ballston Spa, on the Malta town line. Balls- 
ton Centre is in the centre of the town. 

The Presbyterian church at Ballston Centre, the first church in town, 
was established September 22, 1775; Calvary Protestant Episcopal 
church at Burnt Hills May 7, 1849; the Baptist church of Burnt Hills 
about 1791; the Christian church of Burnt Hills about 1848; the Epis- 
copal church at East Line (now extinct) in 1876, and the Christian 
church of East Line (also extinct) in 1858. 

October 16, 1780, a party of four hundred regulars and Indians from 
Canada, under the Tory Major Munroe, attacked the Ballston settle- 
ment, killed one man and took twenty-four prisoners, including General 
James Gordon. The prisoners were taken to Canada, whence they 
subsequently escaped. In May, 1781, the notorious Joe Bettys, with 
about thirty refugees, captured several prisoners and carried them to 
Canada. They also afterward escaped. Bettys was subsecpiently cap- 
tured and hanged as a spy at Albany. 

Ballston was named in honor of Rev. EHphalet Ball, and was orig- 
inally called Ball's Town. In 1775 the district of Ballston was formed 
from Saratoga. In 1785 it became a town of Albany county, and in- 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— MALTA. ^59 

eluded (as it also did as a district) the present towns of Ballston, Mil- 
ton, Charlton, Galway, Providence, Edinburgh and a part of Green- 
field. Charlton, Milton and Galway were set oft" in 1793. The records 
of the district from 1775 to 1778 are not in existence, as far as can be 
learned. The first known are those of 1779, in which year these officers 
were chosen : 

Supervisor, James Gordon; clerk, Beriah Palmer; collector, Dr. Elisha Miller; 
assessors, Captain Elisha Benedict, Jabez Patchin. John Rogers, Beriah Palmer, jr., 
John Taylor; constables, Isaac Stow, Daniel Taylor; fence viewers. Lieutenant John 
Ball, Lieutenant Nathaniel Weed; overseers of the poor, Hezekiah Middlebrook, 
Jabez Hubbell; pathmasters, Nathaniel Weed, Jabez Hubbell, Elisha Benedict, Ja- 
bez Patchin, James Adams, Sunderland Sears, Nathan Raymond, Isaac Stow. 

Following is a list of the supervisors of Ballston since 1779: 
1779-80. James Gordon; 1781-83, none elected, on account of the war; 1784, Uriah 
Benedict; 1785, Andrew Mitchell; 1786, Benjamin Andrews; 1787-89, James Gordon; 
1790-91, Beriah Palmer; 1793, Uriah Benedict; 1793, Seth C. Baldwin; 1794-96, Ed- 
ward A. Watrous; 1797, Jabez Davis; 1798, Henry Walton; 1799, Beriah Palmer; 
1800, Seth C. Baldwin; 1801, John McCrea; 1803-04, Nathaniel Booth; 1805-08, Sam- 
uel McCrea; 1809-10, Samuel Young; 1811, Ebenezer S. Coon; 1813-13, Samuel 
Young; 1814, Abijah Hubbell; 1815, S. D. Hollister; 1816-33, James McCrea; 1834- 
35, Jesse Robertson; 1836-37, Anson Seeley; 1838, WilHam G. Verplanck ; 1839, An- 
son Seeley; 1840-41, Anson Buell; 1843-43, William H. Satterlee; 1844, Stephen Mer- 
chant; 1845, Anson Buell; 1846-48, Cady Hollister; 1849, Anson Seeley; 1850, John 
P. Roe; 1851, Henry P. Woolley; 1853, William H. Wendell; 1853-54, Abel Meeker; 
1855, John P. Roe; 1856-57, John Vibbard ; 1858-59, John Wait; 1860-80, George G. 
Scott; 1881-90, Robert O. Davis; 1891, George L. Thompson; 1893-93. Robert O. 
Davis; 1894^97, Douw F. Winney; 1898, George C. Valentine. 

TOWN OF MALTA. 

The town of Malta is bounded on the north by Saratoga Springs, on 
the east by Stillwater, on the south by Clifton Park and Halfmoon, 
and on the west by Ballston and Milton. Its surface is chiefly undulat- 
ing. The Kayaderosseras creek forms a part of the northern bound- 
ary. The Mourning kill passes through the northwestern corner of 
the town. The outlet of Ballston lake flows southeasterly through the 
northwestern part and empties into Round lake. Anthony's kill, the 
outlet of Round lake, flows easterly. These are the principal streams 
in the town. A portion of Saratoga lake occupies the northeastern 
corner of Malta, and Round lake lies in the extreme southern part of 
the town. The Delaware & Hudson Railroad enters the town at 
Round Lake and passes in a northwesterly direction to East Line, 
thence northward. 



300 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The first settlements in Malta were made by two men named Drum- 
mond and McKelpin, who located on the west shore of Saratoga lake. 
John Hunter and Ashbel Andrews located near Round lake about 1764. 
Michael Dunning settled at Dunning Street about 1771 and opened a 
tavern. Samuel Smith had an early tavern at East Line. 

Malta was formed from Stillwater March 3, 1802. A portion of 
Saratoga was added March 28, 1805. The first town meeting was held 
at the house of Michael Dunning, jr., April 6, 1802, when these officers 
were elected : 

Supervisor, Samuel Clark; clerk, Ashbel Andrews, jr.; assessors, Joseph Rock- 
well, Luther Landon, Dean Chase; commissioners of highways, Abraham Valen- 
tine, Ebenezer Dibble, Uriah Hawkins; overseers of the poor, William Dunning, 
Samuel Gates; constables, Pontius Hooper, Eleazer Millard, jr.; collector, Pontius 
.Hooper; overseers of highways, Obadiah Tompkins, Elisha Wood, Samuel Gregory, 
David Keeler, Reuben Doolittle, Jesse How, Cornelius Abeel, Stephen Ireland, Tim- 
othy Shipman; fence-viewers. Obadiah Mather, Robert Hunter; pound-keeper, 
William Dunning. 

The following have been supervisors of the town: 

1803, Samuel Clark ; 1803, Samuel Clark, jr. ; 1804-1813, Ashbel Andrews, jr, ; 1813- 
1818, John Dunning; 1819-1833, Palmer Cady; 1833-1836, Dennis Marvin; 1827, 
Samuel Hunter; 1838-1830, Palmer Cady; 1831^1832, Gould Morehouse; 1833-1835, 
Timothy Tripp; 1836, Gould Morehouse ; 1837, Timothy Tripp; 1838, George Rog- 
ers; 1889, Robert Hunter; 1840, Timothy Tripp; 1841, David Coggeshall; 1843, 
George Burr; 1843, George Burr (held over; no choice at election); 1844, Oliver P. 
Raymond; 1845, Samuel A. Doughty; 1846, Lewis J. Fish; 1847, William A. Colla- 
mer; 1848, David Rowley ; 1849, James Van Hyning; 1850, George Rogers; 1851, 
John M. 01m.stead; 1853. George Rogers; 1853, Peters Sickler; 1854, Robert K. Lan- 
don; 1855, William D. Marvin; 1856, David Rowley; 1857, James Tripp; 1858-1859, 
Henry Van Hyning; 1860, James Tripp; 1861-1863, A. Bentley; 1863, Peters Sickler; 
1864-1865, James Tripp; 1866, Charles Rogers; 1867, Robert K. Landon; 1868-1873, 
Henry Van Hyning; 1873-1874, William A. Collamer, jr. ; 1875, Thomas Sweet; 1876- 
1879, William A. Collamer, jr. ; 1880-1883, Daniel C. Briggs; 1883, David N. Colla- 
mer; 1884-1885, George W. Rowley; 1886, William A. Collamer; 1887-1889. James 
E. Lamb; 1890. Le Grand D. Bardin; 1891-1893, Everett W. Allen; 1893-1897, S.W. 
Pearse ; 1898, Lafayette B. Collamer. 

There are no villages in Malta. East Line is a small hamlet in the 
western boundary of the town. Dunning Street, or Malta, is near the 
centre. Maltaville is just north of Round lake. Malta Ridge is in the 
northern part of the town. Round Lake is the principal centre of pop- 
ulation. 

Round Lake. 

Round L,^ke occupies an anomalous position among the residential 




(.KORGE F. Tl Rl'ir 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS—MALTA. 3G1 

localities of Saratoga county and of New York State. About two hun- 
dred acres of land, most of which consists of a well kept grove of tall 
trees, the major portion of which is inclosed on all sides by a fence, 
contain the colony controlled by an incorporated body known as the 
Round Lake Association. The grounds lie west of the beautiful sheet 
of water known as Round lake, three miles in circumference, and are 
picturesquely situated, being surrounded by sloping hills and woods. 

The place is not an incorporated village and probably never will be- 
come such. It is located in the town of Malta, a little over nineteen 
miles from Troy, and thirteen miles from Saratoga Springs, on the 
Delaware & Hudson railroad. The grove, most of the available space 
in which is filled with summer cottages and substantial residences, 
some of which were erected at the expense of many thousand dollars, 
is cut up by picturesque avenues. The west side of the grounds is de- 
voted to spacious lawns and attractive beds of flowers. In the centre 
of all is the spacious auditorium, where, in the summer, are held many 
religious meetings, lectures, preachers' institutes and Sunda}' school 
assemblies, and a regular annual musical festival occupying nearly an 
entire week, in which noted vocalists and orchestras participate. Sev- 
eral fine hotels are located on the grounds, all but one of which, how- 
ever, are closed during the winter season. In the northwest corner of 
the grounds is Grififin Institute, built by Rev, Dr. William Griffin, for 
many years president of the Round Lake Association, This building 
is used for the Round Lake academy, a splendidly equipped school which 
is open all the year. On the edge of the bluff, in the southern part, 
stands the George West Museum of Art and Archaeology, a handsome 
and well equipped structure built by the Hon. George West of Ballston 
Spa, who has served the association as treasurer for many years. 
Garnsey Hall, Kennedy Hall, and Alumni Hall complete the public 
and semi-public edifices. The Burnham house, built for hotel pur- 
poses, came into the hands of the late Dr. Griffin, who directed that it 
be used as a dormitory for the academy. 

In the summer of 1867 Joseph Hillman of Troy interested a number 
of other prominent Methodist laymen in the project for forming an 
association to purchase a site for a camp-meeting ground. The present 
site of Round Lake was finally selected, and September 20 of that year 
the first meeting of the projectors was held there. Mayo, 18G8, the 
State Legislature passed an act constituting Mr, Hillman and his asso- 
ciates the first trustees of " the Round Lake Camp meeting Association 



362 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of the Methodist Episcopal Church of the Troy Conference. " ' The 
corporation was permitted to possess real estate, not exceeding $150,000 
in value, and to derive from its personal propertj^ an annual income 
not exceeding $30,000. At the first meeting of the trustees. May 4, 
1868, Joseph Hillman was elected president, Charles W. Pierce vice- 
president, Edgar O. Howland secretary, and George Bristol treasurer. 
April 1 following about forty acres of land located on the west side of 
Round lake was purchased from Rice Hall and John Moore. 

The first regular Troy Conference camp-meeting at Round Lake be- 
gan September 1, 1868, those in attendance living in tents or in wagons. 
Thirty discourses were delivered during the meeting. The attendance 
on Sunday, September 6, numbered about eight thousand persons. 

In 1869 the work of improving the grounds on an elaborate scale be- 
gan. More than a thousand young trees were planted along the ave- 
nues outside the wood and at other points, and thirteen cottages and 
eight or nine other buildings were erected." July 6 of that year the 
first meeting of the National Camp meeting Association began, nearly 
twenty thousand persons being in attendance in one day. 

From this time on many improvements and changes were made on 
the grounds. In 1872 the association granted the privilege of regular 
summer residence to those who owned or might rent cottages on the 
grounds, the season being limited to the time from July 1 to October 1. 
In the spring of 1873 the Delaware and Hudson Canal company built a 
spacious and attractive passenger station at the western entrance to the 
grounds. July 15, 1874, President Ulysses S. Grant visited the grounds 
and attended the first " fraternal camp meeting." He was introduced 
to the people assembled by Bishop James and was greeted with pro- 
longed applause. Later in the year the area of the grounds was greatly 
enlarged by the purchase of sixty five acres of land on the west side of 
the railroad. Subsequently fifteen acres were added on the north side 
of the property. Avenues and building lots were laid out on a part of 
the new purchase. 

1 The first trustees named in the act were Joseph Hillman, Gardner Howland. George Bristol, 
Ephraim D. Waldron, Phineas S. Pettit, Hiram A. Wilson, Roscius R. Kennedy, Edgar O. How- 
land, William Foote, Levi Weed, Robert N. Newton, Charles W. Pierce, Robert Coburn, James 
H. Earl, William Dalton, F. D. Hodgemen, Joseph E. King, D. D., Hazen W. Bennett, William 
McEchron, Jesse Wilson and George L. Clark. 

' The first cottages were built by Joseph Hillman, Troy; F. D. Hodgeman, Fort Edward; A. 
P. Blood, Ballston Spa; Rev. R. H. Robinson, Ballston .Spa; Jacob Travis, Cohoes; James P. 
Kurtis, Mechanicville; R. N. Newton and S. Martin, Albany; Pemble& Wood, Stillw.ater; Holmes 
& McEchron, Glens Falls; E. Lockwood, Mechanicville; Sanford Smith, Ballston Spa; Steves & 
Brown, Troy, and Cicero Barber, Fort Edward. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— MALTA. 363 

On Saturday, July 10, 1875, the work of drilling- a mineral well near 
the southwest corner of Burlington and George avenues was begun, 
the association having been assured by geologists that mineral water 
could be obtained by boring through the strata of Hudson river shale. 
September 11 the drill penetrated a spring at a depth of more than 
thirteen hundred feet from the surface. When the well had been 
drilled to the depth of fourteen hundred and three feet and was tubed, 
an analysis of the water showed that its composition differed little 
from the water of the Congress spring at Saratoga Springs.' Some 
time after the completion of the work a torpedo was exploded in tlie 
well, since which time there has been no flow of water. 

The first Sunday school assembly held on the grounds began its 
sessions July 22, 1877. The following year Rev. W.W.Wythe, M. D., 
the designer of the topographical representation of the land of Pal- 
estine at Chautauqua, constructed a similar structure on the west 
side of the lake. The plot was about five hundred feet in length, 
on a scale of two and a half feet to the mile." 

No meetings, excepting that of the Woman's Christian Temperance 
Union of New York State were held on the grounds in 1883 on account 
of the financial embarrassment of the association by reason of unre- 
munerative improvements. Affairs were finally adjusted and the 
meetings were resumed the following year. 

Alumni hall, located on the south side of Whitfield avenue, was ded- 
icated July 18, 1884. The building, a frame structure, cost $1,900, 
and the money was contributed by the alumni and the friends of the 
Round Lake Alumni association. The dedication of the new auditorium 
took place on Sunday, July 19, 1884, and was in charge of Rev. James 
P. Newman, D. D. The building, one hundred and four by eighty 
feet, erected at a cost of $3,152.18, furnishes sittings for two thousand 
people. The Summer school was established in 1886, the first director 
being James H. Worman, Ph.D., of Vanderbilt university. 

The Round Lake waterworks system was constructed in 1887, the 
committee in charge of the work consisting of Charles D. Hammond, 

'The sample of water analyzed contained, in one gallon of S.'il cubic inches: Chloride of 
sodium, 3M. •J!)*! grains; chloride of potassium, !l.4:i63 gr.; bromide of sodium, 1.4710 gr.; iodide of 
sodium, l.Iil.'ia gr.; fluoride of sodium, trace ; bicarbonate of lithia, 2.7494 gr.; bicarbonate of soda. 
48.9871 gr.; bicarbonate of magnesia. i).78*0 gr.; bicarbonate of lime, 13.4457 gr.; bicarbonate of 
strontia, 1.2<)38 gr. ; bicarbonate of baryta, O..").'i20 gr.; bicarbonate of iron, 0.0344 gr.; bicarbonate 
of manganese, 0.0708 gr.; sulphate of potassa, 1.027,5 gr.; phosphate of soda, 00328 gr.; biborate of 
soda, trace ; alumina, 0.a?46 gr.; silica, 1.2247 gr.; organic matter, trace ; total, 486.2608 gr. 
2 This structure was demolished several years ago. 



364 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

M. B. Sherman, Silas Owen, E. A. Hartshorn and the Rev. William 
Griffin, D. D. A receiving reservoir was constructed east of the supply- 
ing springs, west of the railroad, and fourteen hydrants were con- 
veniently erected. The storage tanks had a capacity of 37,000 gallons. 
The sewerage of the grounds was also satisfactorily accomplished, as 
no sewage contaminates the water of the lake. A new waterworks 
system was completed in 1896, and the place is now supplied with the 
purest of spring water. 

The M. B. Sherman Hose company was organized June 18, 1887, by 
the election of these officers: Charles P. Ide, president; Marshall L. 
Barnes, vice-president; Charles D. Rogers, secretary; J. Frank Fellows, 
treasurer; A. E. Batchelder, captain; Fred A. Converse, first assistant; 
T. N. Derby, second assistant. 

Griffin Institute, built by the Rev. William Griffin, D. D., at an ex- 
pense of more than $15,000, was completed in the summer of 1887.' It 
has a frontage of eighty six feet and a depth of more than fifty feet. 

The George West Museum of Art and Archasology, the gift of the 
Hon. George West of Ballston Spa, constructed in 1887, cost the donor 
$17,000. It contains paintings, statuary, antiquities, curiosities, etc. 
It is the most conspicuous building on the grounds. Garnsey Hall, 
built by Mrs. Caroline Garnsey, was erected in 1887 at an expense of 
$8,000. Kennedy Hall cost $7,500 and was erected in the same year 
by Mrs. Nancy M. Kennedy. 

A library of rapidly increasing proportions was established in 1896 
through the efforts of Mrs. William Barker and others. 

In 1890 the Regents of the University of the State of New York 
chartered the Round Lake Summer Institute and subsequently also ex- 
tended the charter to the Round Lake Academy. The officers of this 
institute were: Rev. Dr. William Griffin, president; Hon. George 
West, treasurer; Rev. B. B. Loomis, Ph. D., D. D., secretary; J. D. 
Rogers, registrar and assistant treasurer, and other members of the 
board of trustees of the association to make twenty-one trustees of the 
institute. The object of the institute was to carry on a system of sum- 
mer education in the various branches, secular and religious. The 
Griffin Institute, West Museum of Art and Archaeology, Garnsey and 
Kennedy Halls and Alumni Hall are now the property of the Summer 
Institute, having been deeded to the trustees of the institute. 

The late Dr. Griffin, who all through the latter years of his useful 
life had been giving his fortune to churches and education, left his 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— MOREAU. 365 

residuary estate to the Round Lake Association for the benefit of the 
Round Lake Summer Institute. It is doubtful if, anywhere in the 
country, there can be found an institute which has grown up from its 
comparatively small beginnings into so broad and varied facility for 
scattering blessings throughout a large portion of the surrounding 
country. 

The presidents of the Round Lake Camp-meeting association were: 
May 1, 1868, to April 37, 1881, Joseph HiUman; April 27, 1881, to 
October 19, 1886, Rev. Rodman H. Robinson, D. D. ; November 3, 
1886, to July 19, 1887, Rev. William Griffin, D. D July 19, 1887, the 
name was changed to that of " The Round Lake Association," its pres- 
ent title. Dr. Griffin became president of the new association, remain- 
ing as such until his death, March 36, 1898. May 11, 1898, Charles D. 
Hammond of Albany was elected to succeed him as president. Lewis 
Gage was superintendent of the association from 1868 to April 1, 1874. 
On that date he was succeeded by Captain John D. Rogers, who still 
retains that office, and for years has been secretary and financial secre- 
tary of the association. 

Gradually Round Lake has developed from a small summer colony 
into a large and prosperous community, with a winter population of 
from three to four hundred and a summer population averaging 3,000. 
It contains nearly three hundred residences, some of which were 
erected at considerable expense. Its future success as a summer resort 
is assured. 

TOWN OF MOREAU. 

Moreau is the most northerly town of the county. It is bounded on 
the north and east by the county line, on the south by Northumberland 
and Wilton, and on the west by Corinth and the county line. The Re- 
vised Statutes define the town thus: 

The town of Moreau shall contain all that part of said county bounded westerly 
by Corinth, southerly by Northumberland and Wilton, and northerly and easterly by 
the bounds of the county. 

The precipitous peaks of the Palmertown mountains occupy much 
of the western section of Moreau, while the central and eastern portions 
are hilly, with numerous creeks running through picturesque ravines. 
The southern part is drained by Snoek (or Snook) kill and its tribu- 
taries. Other small streams flow northerly and easterly into the Hud- 
son river, which is grandly picturesque at this point. Many rapids and 



366 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

falls in this stream afford excellent water power, which has been devel- 
oped to a remarkable extent. The scenery among the mountains in the 
western part of the town is magnificent, rivaling the wilder part of the 
Adirondack mountains, of which these heights are a part. There are 
numerous small but picturesque lakes and ponds in the town. The 
Delaware and Hudson railroad crosses the southeastern section of the 
town from southwest to northeast. 

The earliest settlement in town probably was made at South Glens 
Falls in ITG6 by Elijah Parks and his sons. The former built a saw 
mill at that point, the first mill of any kind in town. His home was 
attacked by Tories and Indians in 1777 and Elisha, one of his sons, mor- 
tally shot. The Jones family (one of the sons of which, David, was 
the betrothed of Jennie McCrea) located on the river bank in the south- 
ern part of the town before the Revolution. Captain Tuttle lived about 
the same time at the mouth of Snoek kill. A man named Marvin was 
the first settler at Fortsville in 1794. Edward and Elijah Dunham and 
Holly St. John were the first settlers at Clark's Corners. A man 
named Hamilton built the first grist mill about 1800. Abel Crandall 
had the first tavern, in 1797. The first church in town (Baptist) was 
built in 1792. 

South Glens Falls is the principal village in Moreau. It is located on 
the Hudson in the northeastern part of the town, across the river from 
Glens Falls, Warren county. It contains several important manufac- 
turing establishments. The large mills of the Morgan Lumber com- 
pany employ a great number of hands. The Glens Falls Paper com- 
pany is another great enterprise which has mills here. The village was 
laid, out in 1837. The first church established there was the Baptist 
church, referred to above. The second established there (M. E.) was 
organized in 18-13. Fortsville is located southeast of the centre of the 
town. Clark's Corners, in the southeastern part, was so named in 
honor of Dr. Billy J. Clark, one of the early physicians of the town, 
Reynolds's Corners is northeast of the centre. 

Moreau was organized as a town March 28, 1805, its territory being 
taken from Northumberland. At the first town meeting, held April 16 
following, these officers were elected: 

Supervi.sor, Thomas Rogers; clerk, Henry Martin; assessors, Amos Hawley, Na- 
thaniel Sill, Caleb Burrows; highway commissioners, Elijah Dunham, Irenaeus Hul- 
bert, Samuel Crippen; overseers of the poor, Amos Hawley, Abel Caldwell; consta- 
bles, Nicholas W. Angle, Paulinus Potter ; collector, Paulinus Potter. 




RAV S. SHERMAN. 



iCi 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— CORINTH. 307 

The supervisors since that time have been as follows: 

1805-08, Thomas Rogers; 1809. Billy J. Clark; 1810-12, Henry Martin; 1813-17, 
James Mott; 1818-19, Thomas Mott; 1820, Paulinas Potter; 1821-22, Gordon G. Sill; 
1823-30, Josiah G. Griswold; 1831, Billy J. Clark; 1832-33, George Reynolds; 1834, 
SethHawley; 1835-36, Josiah J. Hawley; 1837, Joshua Fish; 1838. George Reynolds; 
1839, Lucius Cary; 1840-43, Joseph A. Sweet; 1844-46, George Payne; 1847-48, 
Truman Hamlin; 1849, Heman K. Hopkins; 1850, George P. Reynolds; 1851, H. 
K. Hopkins; 1852-.53, J. A. Sweet; 1854, H. K. Hopkins; 1855, Hassan A. Hopkins; 
1856, J. A. Sweet; 1857, Truman HamHn; 1858-62, Austin L. Reynolds; 1863, L. B. 
Swartwout; 1864, Isaac G. Stillwell; 1865-66, A. L. Reynolds; 1867-70, George P. 
Reynolds; 1871, A. L. Reynolds- 1873, A. F. Hitchcock; 1873-74, S. Mott Sweet; 
1875, William A. Sherman; 1876, George W. Smith; 1877, S. Mott Sweet; 1878-79, 
John Campbell; 1880-81, Thomas Reynolds; 1882, Alaric F. Hitchcock; 1833, How- 
land Fish; 1884-85, Lewis W. Hamlin; 1886-87, A. L. Reynolds; 1888, George I. 
Jackson; 1889-92, L. W. Hamlin; 1893, Howland Fish; 1894-98, George I. Jackson. 

TOWN OF CORINTH. 

Corinth is bounded on the north by Day and Hadley, on the east by 
Warren county and Moreau, on the south by Wilton and Greenfield, 
and on the west by Edinburgh. The Revised Statutes define the town 
thus: 

The town of Corinth shall contain all that part of said county beginning at the 
southeast corner of the town of Edinburgh and running thence south along the east 
bounds of Providence to a point due west from the middle of a public highway south 
of and adjoining the late dwelling house of George Shove, deceased, then east to the 
middle of the said highway, then east to the northwest corner of Wilton, then north 
thirty-two degrees east to a place called Flat Rock on or near the western bank of 
said river, then north to the bounds of the county, then westerly and northerly along 
the bounds of the county to a point si.\ miles north of the south bounds of said town 
of Corinth, then west parallel to said south bounds to the east bounds of Edinburgh, 
and then south along the same to the place of beginning. 

The surface of Corinth is mountainous, abounding in wild, diversi- 
fied and e.xceedingly picturesque scenery. The Kayaderosseras range 
of mountains extend through the northern and western portion, and the 
Palmertown mountains occupy the southeastern part. In the extreme 
southeastern corner is the famous Mount McGregor, where Gen. 
Ulysses S. Grant died. This mountain, however, lies partly in Moreau 
and Wilton. In the northwestern part are several small lakes, among 
the larger being Hunt, Efnor, and Jenny lakes and Black pond. Early's 
creek runs along the foot of the Kayaderosseras range; Daly's creek, 
which is supplied by the lakes above named, flows northward across the 
western part of the town ; Clothier's creek flows along the northwest- 



368 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ern base of Mount McGregor; and the Kayaderosseras creek rises in 
the southern part and flows in a southerly direction into Saratoga lake. 
The great falls of the Hudson river lie about midway of the eastern 
boundar)'. The scenery at Palmer's Falls is probably unexcelled in 
New York State, except that the world of industry has laid its hand 
upon the waterpower there for manufacturing purposes. The Adiron- 
dack railroad runs nearly north and south east of the middle of the 
town. The Mount McGregor railroad enters the extreme southeastern 
corner, its track extending about a mile into the town. 

The first settlement in Corinth was made near Mount McGregor 
about 1775 by Ambrose Clothier. Samuel Eggleston located near by 
in the same year. Benjamin Ide came from Jonesville, in Clifton 
Park, in 1777. The first church (Baptist) was constituted in 1795. 
The first lumber mills in the town were built about 1800. Jonathan 
Deuel owned one at South Corinth in that year. The first clothing mill 
was built about 1805 on Kayaderosseras creek by Washington Chap- 
man. Hiram Chapman had the first store, at South Corinth, in 1826. 

Corinth is a village located in the northeastern part of the town. It 
has several manufactures, including paper mills. The village is of 
modern growth. It was incorporated in 1888; since which time the 
village presidents have been : 

1888, Warren Curtis; 1889-1890, S. C. Johnson; 1891, Daniel B. Ide; 1892, Charles 
H. Pitts; 1893, F. R. Walker; 1894, Charles H. Pitts; 1895, James B. Ross; 1896, 
Levi B. Dedrick; 1897-1898, W. Curtis, jr. 

South Corinth is a hamlet located in the southern part of the town, 
on the Adirondack railroad. 

Corinth was formed from Hadley April 20, 1818 At the first town 
meeting held in April, 1819, Benjamin Cowles was elected supervisor 
and John W. Taylor clerk. Since that time the supervisors of Cornith 
have been : 

1819-1820, Benjamin Cowles; 1821-1824, Samuel McCrea ; 1825, David Rogers; 1826, 
Benjamin Cowles; 1837-1828, William Jones; 1829, David Rogers; 1830-1832, Thomas 
Dibble; 1833-1834, Benjamin Cowles; 183.5-1837, Windsor Brown; 1838, Jeduthan 
Lindsay; 1839-1840, Obadiah Wood; 1841, William Ide; 1842, Benjamin Cowles; 
1843-1844, Benjamin F. Sims; 1845-1846. Theodore W. Sanders; 1847, Henry S. 
Efnor; 1848, Arden Heath; 1849, Benjamin Grippin ; 1850, Amasa B. Martin; 1851, 
Asahel Deuel; 1852, Arden Heath; 1853, Asahel Deuel; 1854, Arden Heath; 1855, A. 
C. T. Sherman; 1856, Arden Heath; 1857. N. W. Buckmaster; 1858, A. C. T. Sher- 
man; 1859, Nathaniel M. Boughton; 1860, Sylvanus Rugg; 1861-1802. Franklin Car- 
penter; 1863, N. W. Buckma.ster; 1864-1866, Tilly Houghton; 1867-1868, Franklin 





Ct4lvH XJ/y/^l^ 




. p 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— HADLEY. 369 

Carpenter; 1869, John C. Herrick; 1870-1874, John Ambler; 1875-1876, Isaac S. Mur- 
ray ; 1877, Gilbert C. Ide; 1878-1881, N. M. Boughton; 1882-1883, Warren Curtis; 
1884-1885, Gustavus W. Edwards; 1886-1890, Daniel B. Ide; 1891-1892, EzraSayre; 
1893-1895, John T. Rice; 1896-1898, Clarence L. Grippin. 

TOWN OF HADLEY. 

Hadley is one of the most northerly towns of Saratoga county. It 
is bounded on the north and east by the county line, on the south by 
Corinth and on the west by Day. The town is defined as follows in 
the Revised Statutes: 

The town of Hadley shall contain all that part of said county bounded, northerly 
and easterly, by the bounds of the county, southerly by Corinth, and westerly, by 
Day. 

The surface of the town is roujih and hilly and for the most part 
thickly Wooded. The Kayaderosseras range occupies the southern 
part of the town. Mount Anthony (the iron mountain), its highest peak, 
lies in the southeastern part of Hadley. The Sacandaga river winds 
through the southern part. There are no lakes or other streams of im- 
portance in the town. The Adirondack railroad runs nearly north and 
south through the extreme eastern part of the town. 

Richard Hilton, who came into the town in 1788, is reputed to have 

been the first settler in the town. Alexander Stewart came in 1790, 

\oJ^ DaaieTDayton in 1796 and Elijah Ellis in 1800. The latter built the 

first saw mill in town on the Sacandaga river. Jonathan Flanders had 

//? the first tavern. 

1 V^ Conklingville and Hadley are the only villages. The former is lo- 

cated on the Sacandaga in the western part of the town. It was founded 
in 18-18 by Gurdon Conkling. It has several industries, the most im- 
portant of which is the woodenware factory operated for many years by 
Benjamin Jenkins. Hadley lies at the mouth of the Sacandaga river, 
and is practically a part of the village of Luzerne in Warren county. 

The Free-Will Baptist church of Hadley was organized in 1826, the 
Wesleyan Methodist church in 1844, the Conklingville Presbyterian 
church in 1854, St. John's Episcopal church of Conklingville in 1868. 
An Odd Fellows lodge was instituted at Conklingville in 1851, and a 
lodge of Good Templars in 1869. 

Hadley was formed from Greenfield in 1801, but then comprised the 
present towns of Hadley, Corinth and a part of Day. In 1819 it was 
reduced to its present dimensions. The supervisors of the town have 
been: 

24 



370 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1801-14, Benjamin Cowles; 1815. Timothy Brown; 1816-18, Benjamin Cowles; 
1819-33, Jeremy Rockwell; 1834, Charles Stewart ; 183.5, Jeremy Rockwell,' Harmon 
Rockwell (appointed); 1836, Charles Stewart; 1837, David Stewart ; 1838-45, Harmon 
Rockwell; 1846-47. William W. Rockwell; 1848-49, Harmon Rockwell; 1850. Jeffer- 
son Jeff ers; 1851, Alexander K. Palmer; 1852, Manlius Jeflfers; 1853-54, Robert 
Humphrey; 1855, David Wait; 1856, Jefferson Jeffers; 1857-58, Manlius Jeffers; 
18.59, Robert Humphrty; 1860, Alexander H. Palmer; 1861, John J. Wait; 1862, 
Gurdon Conklin, jr. ; 1863, Manlius Jeffers; 1864, Gurdon Conklin, jr. ; 1865-66, John 
J. Wait; 1867, William H. Palmer; 1868-69, Benjamin Pickens; 1870, Manlius Jeff- 
ers; 1871, William H. Palmer; 1872, Stewart Early; 1873-74, John A. Kathan ; 18^5, 
Lewis E. Wait; 1876, Darius Martin; 18'i7-78, John J. Wait; 1879, John A. Kathan; 
1880-81, Edmund J. Wilcox; 1882, John A. Kathan; 1883-84, Charles H. Mills; 1885- 
90, Monroe L. Kathan; 1891, Patrick T. Moynihan; 1892-98, Francis J. Dunn. 

Following is a list of the town clerks since 1805: 

1805-09, Daniel Church; 1810, Elisha Brace; 1811, John W. Taylor; 1812-13, Or- 
lando Boardman; 1814-15, Elisha Wilson; 1816-18, Jeremy Rockwell; 1819-20, H. T. 
Carpenter; 1821-26, Henry Rockwell; 1827-28, Harmon Rockwell; 1829, David 
Stewart; 1830, Orange Dayton; 1831, George T. Rockwell; 1832-34, Harmon Rock- 
well; 1835, Hiram A. Perry, D. S. Graves; 1836, D. S. Graves; 1837-38, Peter Butler; 
1839. Carmi Lindsay; 1840-41, N. M. Houghton; 1842-43, David Stewart; 1844-45, 
Truman D. Stewart; 1846, Daniel B. Ketchum ; 1847-48, Manlius Jeffers; 1849, George 
Kenyon; 1850, Carmi Lindsay; 1851-52, George Kenyon; 1853, John Cameron; 1854, 
David Wait; 1855-56, George Kenyon; 1857-58. Abner D. Wait; 1859, David Wait; 
1860-61, Stephen Kenyon, jr.; 1862, George Kenyon; 1863-64, John J. Wait; 1865, 
Charles W. Reynolds; 1866, George Kenyon; 1867, Grove H. Moore; 1868, Martin H. 
Wilcox; 1869, A.J. Rockwell ; 1870, Stephen Kenyon; 1871, John A. Kathan; 1872-73, 
Joseph E. Morris; 1874, William P. Bunnell; 1875, Warren Johnson; 1876, James F. 
AusUn; 1877, Charles H. Mills; 1878-79, Clark Early; 1880, L. L. Quivey; 1881-83, 
Jacob C. Palmer; 1884-87, M. H. Wilcox; 1888, Albert Williams; 1889-90, P. T. Moy- 
nihan; 1891-92, B. S. Jenkins; 1893, J. C. Palmer; 1894-95, B. S. Jenkins; 1896-97, 
William Johnson ; 1898, Willard Kathan. 

The justices of the peace elected by the people since 1830 have been 
as follows: 

1830, Joel Dayton; 1831, Stephen Gray (long term), Uriah H. Kendall (short term); 
1832, Harmon Rockwell; 1833, Stephen Gray; 1834, Decalvas S. Graves; 1835, Uriah 
H. Kendall; 18:36, David Stewart; 1837, Stephen Gray (long term). Thomas Frost 
(.short terra); 1838, Harmon Rockwell (long term), Thomas Frost (short term); 1839, 
Thomas Frost; 1840, David Stewart; 1841, Stephen Gray; 1842, Harmon Rockwell; 
1843, Thomas Frost; 1844, David Stewart; 1845. John B. Aldrich; 1846, Ariel C. 
Loveless; 1847, Harmon Rockwell; 1848, Zina H. Cowles; 1849, Robert Humphrey 
(long term), Otis Kiblin (short term); 1850, Manlius Jeffers (long term), A. C. Loveless 
(short term); 1851, A. C. Loveless (long term), John Gilbert (short term); 1852, Har- 
mon Rockwell; 1853, Robert Humphrey; 1854, Manlius Jeffers; 1855, John A. Kettell; 

* Died in office. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— NORTHUMBERLAND. 371 

1856, Harmon Rockwell; 1857, Robert Humphrey (long term), George Kenyon (short 
term); 1858, Manlius Jeffers; 1809, Elijah Ellis; 1860, George Keuyon ; 1861. Robert 
Humphrey; 1862, Manlius Jeflfers; 1863, John A. Kettell (long term), A. H. Palmer 
(short term); 1864, Harmon Rockwell, L. D. Sabin (appointed); 1865, L. D. Sabin; 
1866, Manlius Jeffers; 1867, C. Kennedy (long term), Mark Beattie (short term); 1868, 
George Kenyon; 1869, Lemuel D. Sabin; 1870. H. S. Jenkins (full term), J. Gilbert 
and D. Martin (vacancies); 1871, Harmon Rockwell (long term), A. H. Palmer (short 
term); 1872, Ge<jrge Kenyon (long term), John Johnson (short term); 1873, Solon 
Bingham; 1874, David H. Yates; 1875, M. H. Wilcox (long term), Mark Beattie (short 
term); 1876, Joseph Dunn (long term), Joel Loveless (short term): 1877, Solon Bing- 
ham (full term), J. Scoville and J. Gilbert (vacancies); 1878, E. George Dunklee (long 
term), Oliver Lawton (short term); 1879, George Kenyon; 1880, Oliver Lawton ; 1881, 
Solon Bingham; 1882, J. R. Scoville; 1883, George Kenyon; 1884, Oliver Lawton; 
1885, E. George Dunklee; 1886, Solon Bingham; 1887, John A. Kathan ; 1888, Oliver 
Lawton (long term), John A. Kathan (short terra); 1889, George Kenyon; 1890, Solon 
Bingham ; 1891, John A. Kathan (long term), Ale.xander H. Palmer (short terra) ; 1892, 
Oliver Lawton ; 1893, A. H. Palmer ; 1894, John Hall, jr. ; 1895, John A. Kathan ; 1896, 
E. George Dunklee: 1898, E. J. Wilcox. 

TOWN OF NORTHUMBERLAND. 

Northumberland is one of the eastern tier of towns. It is bounded 
on the north by Moreau, on the east by the county line, on the south 
by Saratoga, and on the west by Wilton. The town is defined as fol- 
lows by the Revised Statutes: 

The town of Northumberland shall contain all that part of said county beginning 
in the east bounds of the county, at an easterly continuation of the north bounds of 
lot number four, in the twentieth general allotment of the patent of Kayaderosseras, 
and running thence westerly in the direction of said north bounds the distance of 
five miles and fifty-three rods from the west bank of Hudson's river; then southerly 
one degree east to the north bounds of the tenth allotment of said patent; then east 
along the same and continuation thereof to the bounds of the county; and then 
northerly along the same to the place of beginning. 

The surface of the town is gently rolling. A line of slate and claj'- 
bluffs from thirty to one hundred feet high extends along the Hudson 
river. The principal streams are Beaver Dam creek and Snoek kill. The 
Champlain canal crosses the extreine southeastern corner, and the Del- 
aware & Hudson railroad the northwestern corner. 

The town was first settled about ten years before the Revolution. 
Hugh Munroe came to Northumberland in 1765 and erected a saw mill 
on the bank of one of the creeks in the eastern part of the town at 
Gansevoort. He was a noted Tory. He lied to Canada and his prop- 
erty was confiscated. James Brisbin settled, also in 1765, about a mile 
and a half west of Fort Miller. Archibald McNeil probably was the 



372 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

first to locate at what is now Northumberland village. Fort Miller was 
built in this town in 1755, under the direction of Colonel Miller. It 
was located upon the flat, above the rapids, and was inclosed on three 
sides by the river. A blockhouse was built on the heights that com- 
mands the position on the west. Fort Miller bridge was first erected 
by a company incorporated March 16, 1803. A new bridge was built 
in 1845. John De Monts opened a store just above Fort Miller soon 
after the Revolution. Alexander Bacon had the first store at Bacon 
Hill and Charles Carpenter at Northumberland village. 

There are three small villages in Northumberland. Gansevoort was 
named after Colonel Peter Gansevoort, a Revolutionary hero who, at 
the close of the war, bought the estate of the Tory Hugh Munroe, dis- 
covered the irons of Munroe's mill and erected a saw mill and a grist 
mill. Bacon Hill was named after Ebenezer Bacon, who came from 
Connecticut and settled there in 1794, opening the first frame tavern 
in town that year. The place was formerl)' called Fiddletown and 
Pope's Corners. Northumberland lies on the Champlain canal in the 
extreme southeastern part of the town. 

The Reformed church of Northumberland, organized in 1820, was a 
branch of the pioneer church at Schuylerville. The Reformed church 
of Gansevoort was formed in 1839, the M. E. church of Gansevoort in 
1839. 

The town of Northumberland was formed from Saratoga March 16, 
1798. A part of Hadley was taken off in 1801, Moreau in 1805, and 
Wilton in 1818. The supervisors of the town have been: 

1798-1799, Sidney Berry; 1800-1806, Jared Palmer; 1807-1810, Herman Ganse- 
voort; 1811-1813, Isaac B. Payne; 1814, John Metcalf; 1815, Herman Gansevoort; 
1816, Daniel Hicks; 1817, James Olrastead; 1818-19, John Metcalf; 1820-32, James 
Cramer; 1823-24, Nathaniel McClellan; 183.5-27, Thomas Hovvland; 1828. James 
Vandewerker; 1829-32, Pasley Laing; 1833, Thomas Howland ; 1834, Jesse Billings; 
1835, Herman Gansevoort; 1836, Conrad Cramer; 1837, Sidney Thompson; 1838, 
Conrad Cramer; 1839, Thomas Howland; 1840, Hugh Thompson; 1841, Piatt C. 
Viele; 1842-43, Joseph Baucus; 1844, George Lansing; 1845, Augustus H. Pearsall; 
1846, Walter Doty; 1847, John R. Fake; 1848, David Purinton ; 1849, John Ter- 
hune; 1850-51, David Purinton ; 1852-53, Joseph Baucus; 1854, Earl H. Whitford; 
1855, J. H. Thompson; 1856, R. F. Houseworth; 1857, Harlow Lawrence; 1858. Hi- 
ram Cramer; 1859-64. Joseph Baucus; 1865-66, Hiram Cramer; 1867-08, Harlow 
Lawrence; 1869-71, Alexander B. Baucus; 1872, William Tice; 1873, George Wash- 
burn; 1874, Ale.xander B. Baucus; 1875, Edwin W. Town; 1876, Ale.xanderB. Baucus; 
1877, Daniel H. Deyoe; 1878, John R. Vanderwerker; 1879, Alexander B. Baucus; 
1880-81. William S. Deyoe; 1882, Wilson S. Fuller; 1883, John R. Vanderwerker; 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— CHARLTON. 373 

1884-85, George B. Thompson ; 1886-87, Augustus G. Deyoe; 1888, Warren A. Bliven; 
1889-93, Daniel Washburn: 1894-95, James H. Deyoe ; 1896-98, Henry C. Thompson. 

TOWN OF CHARLTON. 

Charlton lies in the southwestern corner of the count}^ It is bounded 
on the north by Galway and Milton, on the east by Ballston, on the 
soutlv by .Schenectady county, and on the west by Schenectady and 
Montgomery counties. The Revised Statutes define the town as fol- 
lows : 

The town of Charlton shall contain all that part of said county bounded westerly 
and southerly by the bounds of the county, easterly by Ballston, northerly by Milton 
and Galway. 

The surface is undulating, and is composed of an excellent quality of 
loam. Aal Plass creek flows southwesterly through the town, and a 
branch of the Mourning kill runs eastwardly into Ballston. 

Charlton was first settled by Joseph Gonzalez, who located in the 
southwestern part in 1770. In 1774: a number of Scotch-Irish families 
who had fled or been banished from Great Britain on account of their 
religious beliefs began the more thorough settlement of the town. 
Among them were Thomas Sweetman and David Maxwell. John 
Cavert, John Taylor, Joseph La Rue, James \^alentine, William Cham- 
bers, John McKnight and others came the following year. John 
Rogers built the first saw mill in town, on Aal-Plass creek, about 1778. 
In 1776 John Holmes built the first grist mill in town. 

Charlton village lies a short distance southeast of the centre of the 
town. West Charlton is a hamlet four miles northwest of Charlton. 
Blue Corners is a community in the northwest corner of the town. 
The Charlton academy was started at Charlton village about 1858 by 
the late Rev. Dr. James N. Crocker of Saratoga Springs. The teach- 
ers' association formed here in 1836 is believed to have been the first 
organization of the kind in New York State. 

Of the churches in this town, St. Paul's Episcopal church at Charlton 
was organized December 10, 1803; the Presbyterian church at Charl- 
ton (first called "the Presbyterian church of Freehold ") in 1786, the 
United Presbyterian church at West Charlton (commonly known as the 
old Scotch church) about 1784:, and the M. E. church of Charlton about 
1838. 

The town of Charlton was formed from Ballston March 17, 1792. It 
originally had been called New Freehold, most of the original settlers 



374 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

having come from Freehold, N. J,, where they made the first stop 
after leaving Great Britain. The snpervisors of the town have been: 
1782, John Boyd, jr. 1793, Alexander Gilchrist. 1794, John Taylor. 1795, John 
Munro. 1796, Alexander Gilchrist. 1797, Henry Corl, jr. 1798, John Taylor. 1799, 
Alexander Gilchrist. 1800-01, Chauncey Belding. 1802, Caleb Holmes. 1803, Na- 
than Hinman. 1804, John Anderson. 1805, Caleb Holmes. 1806, Joseph Brown. 
1807, John Rogers, jr. 1808, Joseph Brown. 1809-11, Somers Hiller. 1813, Daniel 
Ostrom. 1813, Samuel Belding. 1814-19, John Low. 1830, Calvin Isbell. 1831-33, 
John Low. 1833-36, Daniel Ostrom. 1837-38, Thomas Brown. 1839, Archibald 
Smith. 1840-43, Lawrence Gardiner. 1844, John A. Gilchrist. 1845, Lawrence 
Gardiner. 1846, Alexander Gilchrist. 1847, Henry Ostrom. 1848-49, James Richey. 
1850, John A. Sweetman. 1851, John Low. 1853, John A. Sweetraan. 1853-54, 
James N. Budd. 1855-58, Nathan H. Brown. 1859-60, John Consalus. 1861-06, 
Horatio S. Brown. 1867, George Bell. 186.S-70, Frederick Curtis. 1871-72, James 
N. Budd. 1873-74, Benjamin IL Knapp. 1875, William B. Consalus. 1876-77, John 
A. Sweetman. 1878, Peter Van Guysling. 1879-83. Thomas M. Gilchrist. 1883-89, 
George C. Valentine. 1890-93, J. Irving Parent. 1893-98, Walter I. Cavert. 

Following is a list of the town clerks since 1799: 

17991801, Ale.xander Ferguson. 1803-13, Samuel Belding. 1813-15, N. S. Hol- 
lister. 1816-17, N. D. Conde. 1818-38, Samuel Belding. 1839-41, Hiram Belding. 
1843, Henry M. Hulst. 1843-47, James Richey. 1848 49, M. B. Callaghan. 1850, 
James Richey. 1851-53, James H. Marvin. 1854-55, William H. Ely. 1856-62, Hi- 
ram Belding. 1863-65, William H. Ely. 1866-67, Hiram Belding. 1868-76, Norman 
Smith. 1877, George Conde. 1878, David F. Wicks. 1879-80, John M. Wells. 1881- 
82, Norman Smith. 1883-85, Walter L Cavert. 1886, C. S. Haynes. 1887-91, Joseph 
N. Hedden. 1893-95, William L. Slover. 1896-97, Robert F. Kernan. 1898, Charles 
E. Groot. 

The records of the justices of the peace elected by the people are 
missing up to the year 1854. Since the latter date those who have 
been elected to this office are: 

1854, Marvin E. Myers; 1855, Robert Crothers; 1856, Henry Ostrom; 1857, Alex- 
ander Davidson; 1858, Isaac Raymond; 1859. Robert Crothers; 1860, Robert Hallo- 
well; 1861, Alexander Davidson ; 1862, Alfred H. Hayes; 1863, James C. Bell; 1864, 
Elbert A. Wilkie; 1865, Alexander Davidson; 1866, Jesse Conde; 1867, James C. 
Bell; 1868, Elbert A. Wilkie; 1869, Benjamin H. Knapp; 1870, William H. Coons; 
1871, Sampson T. Mason; 1872, Elbert A. Wilkie; 1873, Cornwell M. No.xon; 1874, 
William H. Coons; 1875, Joseph H. Alexander, John A. Chambers; 1876. Elbert A. 
Wilkie; 1877, Cornwell M. Noxon ; 1878, John A. Chambers; 1879, Sampson T. 
Mason; 1880, Joseph H. Alexander; 1881, Richard Taylor; 1882, Cornelius B. Young; 
1883, William H. Ostrom; 1884. Joseph H. Alexander; 1885, Cornwell M. No.Kon ; 
1886, Cornelius B. Young; 1887, Cornelius Van Buren; 1888, Joseph H. Alexander, 
1889, Alexander Crane; 1890, Cornelius B. Young; 1891, Matthew Bunyan; 1892, 
Elmer Cavert; 1893, Alexander Crane; 1894, Cornelius B. Young; 1896, George F. 
Smith; 1897, Alexander Crane; 1898, Cornelius B. Young. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— CLIFTON PARK. S75 

THE TOWN OF CLIFTON PARK. 

Clifton Park is one of the most southerly towns of the county. It is 
bounded on the north by Ballston and Malta, on the east by Halfmoon, 
on the south by Albany and Schenectady counties, and on the west by 
Schenectady county and the town of Ballston. In the Revised Statutes 
the town is thus described: 

The town of Clifton shall contain all that part of said county bounded northerly 
by Ballston and Malta, easterly by Half Moon, southerly and westerly by the bovtnds 
of the county. 

The surface of the town is gently undulating. A line of rugged clay 
blutfs borders upon the Mohawk river in the southern part of the town. 
There are several small brooks in the town. The Erie canal enters 
the town at Rexford's Flats and flows southeasterly and easterly along 
the bank of the Mohawk river. The main line of the Delaware & 
Hudson Canal company's railroad passes through the extreme north- 
eastern part. The Schenectady branch of the same railroad runs 
through the northwestern corner. The Schenectady and Mechanic- 
ville branch of the Delaware & Hudson railroad and the main line of 
the Fitchburg railroad extend through the northern half of the town. 

The first settlements in Clifton Park were made near the Mohawk 
river before 1700. The exact date is unknown. In 1723 there were at 
least twenty inhabitants in the town, and probably more, as a census 
taken in that year shows that number of residents in the section then 
called Canastigione. Nicholas Fort kept a public house at Fort's Ferry 
before the Revolution. It is related that George Washington was 
ferried across the river at this point and stopped at Fort's tavern while 
on his northern tour in 1783. Eldert Vischer established the ferry 
which still bears his name, before the Revolution. Edward Rexford 
settled at Rexford's Flats before the Revolution. Saw mills and grist 
mills were established at an early day, many years before the Revolu- 
tion. 

Clifton Park village lies on the eastern boundary of the town, partly 
in Halfmoon. Vischer's Ferry, Fort's Ferry and Rexford's Flats are 
located on the Erie canal. Groom's Corners is in the southwestern part 
and Jonesville (or Elnora) is in the northern part. At the latter place 
there flourished for many years a noted academy. At Rexford's Flats 
the Erie canal crosses the river from Schenectady county by means of 
an aqueduct of considerable size. 

The Reformed church of Amity (Vischer's Ferry) was organized in 



376 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1802, the Baptist church of CHfton Park in 1795, the M. E. church at 
Groom's Corners about 1838, the M. E. church at Rexford's Flats in 
1833, the M. E. church at Jonesville in 1825, and the M. E. church at 
Clifton Park in 18-13. 

Clifton Park was formed from Halfmoon March 3, 1838, as "Clifton." 
Its name was changed to Clifton Park March 31, 1829. It is the last 
town organized in Saratoga county. The first town meeting was held 
in 1828, when the following officers were elected : 

Supervisor, Ephraim Stevens. Clerk, Henry Clow. Collector, Michael Weldon. 
Assessors, Joseph Reed, Abram Pearse, Isaac E. Garnsey. Overseers of the poor, 
Joseph Arnold, Tennis Cragier. Highway commissioners, Jacob Vol wider, Elisha 
King, Stephen H. Wakeman. Committee of common schools, Cornelius Failing, 
Seth W. Higgins, Solomon C. Peck. Inspectors of common schools, Levi Garnsey, 
William E. Noxon, Leonard Shepherd. Constables, William H. Brown, James 
Knight, jr., John Cole. Pound keepers, Ephraim Stevens, Eleazer Re.Kford. Fence 
viewers, Andrew Evans, David Garnsey. 

Since that time the supervisors of Clifton Park have been as follows: 

1838, Ephraim Stevens. 1829, Nathan Garnsey. 1830, Ephraim Stevens. 1831, 
David Garnsey. 1833-34, Ephraim Stevens. 1835, William Gates. 1836-37, James 
Groom. 1838-39, Joseph Arnold, 1840-41, Henry Clow. 1842-44, Roscius R. 
Kennedy. 1845-46, John Peck. 1847-48, Christopher C. Hegeman. 1849, John 
Peck. 1850, J. W. Van Vranken. 1851, Har%'ey H. Rogers. 1853-53, William 
Shepherd. 1854, Nanning F. Vischer. 1855, Nelson Cole. 1856, Isaac Schauber. 
1857, Roscius R. Kennedy. 1858, Nicholas Vischer. 1859, David W. Wait. 1S60, 
Gradus Vischer. 1861-66, Cyrus W. Rexford, 1867-69, Nicholas J. Clute. 1870, 
Garret Craiger. 1871, Cyrus W. Rexford. 1873, N. J. Clute. 1873-74, Barney R. 
Caldwell. 1875, Hiram Parker. 1876-80, Adam Mott. 1881-83, Samuel Groom. 
1884, John C. Losee. 1885-87, William H, Van Vranken. 1888, George Losee. 
1889, Wallace L. Hubbs, 1890-91, Hiram A. Champion. 1893-96, Emmor J. Cald- 
well. 1897-98, J. Howard Arnold. 

The town clerks have been : 

1828, Henry Clow. 1839, William Shepherd. 1830-1831, Solomon C. Peck. 1833- 
1835, James Groom. 1836, John Thomas. 1837-1838, William Hollister. 1839, 
James E. Jones. 1840, William L. Potter. 1841-1842, Thomas M. Peters. 1843, 
Joseph S. Wood, 1844-1845, William A. Peters. 1846, John Arnold. 1847, Aaron 
Wood. 1848, Silas H. Sweatland. 1849, Francis N. Vischer. 1850-1851, Lorenzo 
H. Sprague. 1853, Staats V. S Fonda. 1853, Hiram P. Jones. 1854, William P. 
Rogers. 1855, John Arnold. 1856, Nicholas Vischer. 1857, John Peck, 3d. 1858, 
Edwin Lyon. 1859-1860, John Peck, 3d. 1861-1864, Samuel Groom. 1865-1868, 
John Peck. 1869, Samuel Groom. 1870, Henry J. Wetzel. 1871-1876, Samuel 
Groom. 1877-1879, Edward S. Hubbs. 1880, W. H Van Vranken. 1881-1882, C. 
R. Sheffer. 1883, Michael Dennis. 1884-1885, George H. Smith. 1888-1888, T. F. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— GALWAY. 377 

Bryar. 1889-1890, George H. Smith. 1890-1893, C. E. Cairuth. 1894-1898, Richard 
Carr. 

The justices of the peace for Clifton Park since 1830 have been: 

1830, John Clute. 1831. Cornelius Failing, Samuel B. Edwards. 1833, Joseph 
Reed. 1833, Cornelius Hegeman, Henry Clow. 1834, Henry Clow. 1835, Solomon 
Brown. 1836, Seth W. Higgins. 1837, Samuel Wilber. 1838. Henty Clow. 1839. 
Benajah D. Arnold. 1840, Abijah Peck, Nelson Cole. 1841. William L. Potter. 
1842, Henry Clow. 1843, Thomas N. Peters, Nelson Cole. 1844, Abijah Peck. 
1845. Thomas N. Peters. 1846, Henry Clow. 1847, John Philo. 1848. Aaron Wood. 
1849, Abijah Peck, Thomas N. Peters. 1850, Henry Clow. 1851, Nelson Cole. 
1852, Urias Williams, Abram V. Fowler. 18.53, Norman B. Prentiss, John W. Van 
Vranken. 1854, William A. Potter 1855, Nathan D. Garnsey. 1856, Silas P. 
Shepherd, Benjamin Howd. 1857, Abram V. Fowler. 1858, Elijah F. Reed. 1859, 
Nelson Cole, 1860, Silas P. Shepherd. 1861. Rufus Palmer. 1863. Adam Mott. 
1863, Norman B. Prentiss. 1864, Samuel Langdon. 1865, John W. Van Vranken. 
1866, Adam Mott. 1867, Cyrus W. Rexford. 1868, Samuel Langdon. 1869, Tunis 
C. Pearse, Samuel Langdon. 1870, Adam Mott. 1871, William E. Rogers. 1872. 
James Edwards. 1873, Tunis C. Pearse, John Peck. 1874, John Peck. 1875, Will- 
iam E. Rogers. 1876. Julian Fish. 1877, Tunis C. Pearse. 1878. John Peck. 1879, 
M. A. Doughty. 1880, Julian Fish. 1881, Tunis C. Pearse. 1882, S. M. Turner. 
1883, M. A. Doughty. 1884, John J. Best. 1885, Tunis C. Pearse. 1886, John 
Peck. 1887. Emmor J. Caldwell. 1888. E. R. Forte. 1889. Tunis C. Pearse. 1890, 
T. F. Bryar. 1891, Emmor J. Caldwell. 1892, E. R. Forte. 1893, W. H. Van 
Vranken. 1894, T. F. Bryar. 1895, Jeremiah Sheldon. 1896. E. R. Forte. 1897, 
W. H. Van Vranken. 1898, T. F. Bryar (full term), E. U. Wait (to fill vacancy.) 

TOWN OF (;alway. 

Galway is one of the western tier of towns. It is rectangular in shape ; 
is bounded on the north by Providence, on the east by Milton, on the 
south by Charlton and on the west by the county line. The town is 
defined as follows by the Revised Statutes: 

The town of Galway shall contain all that part of said county bounded easterly by 
Milton, southerly by a line running from the southwest corner of Milton west, along 
the south bounds of the fourteenth allotment of the patent of Kayaderosseras to the 
west bounds of the county; westerly by the bounds of the county; and northerly by 
Providence. 

In the southern part of the town the surface is gently undulating. 
In the northern part are rounded hills of the Kayaderosseras range. Chuc- 
tenunda creek rises near the northeast corner, flows southward and 
supplies a reservoir used by the manufacturers of Amsterdam, N. Y. 
This reservoir is located a mile and a lialt west of Galway village. 
Feegowesee creek rises north of the centre and flows in an easterly 
direction into the Kayaderosseras creek. A branch of the Mourning 



378 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

kill rises in the southeast and flows eastwardly into the Kayaderosseras. 

Galway was first settled in the fall of 1774: about a mile south of Gal- 
way village by a number of Scotch emigrants who accompanied the 
body who settled Charlton. Among the first to come were William 
Kelly, John and James Major and John McHarg. In 1778 Rev. Simeon 
Smith and others came from Centrehook, R. I., and settled near York's 
Corners. Soon after the Revolution John Hinman, James Hayes, Peter 
Anderson, Richard Paul, Dudley Smith and otliers from Elizabeth, N. 
J., settled at Jersey Hill, in the southwestern part. Lewis Stone came 
from New York in 1794. The first church, Scotch Presbyterian, was 
located at the point of first settlement, known as Scotch Street. Rev. 
James Mairs was the first pastor. An academy was established at Gal- 
wa)' in 183G, In 1850 it was converted into a female seminary. After 
being unoccupied for eight years the building was burned November 
30, 1871. The churches in the town are: First Baptist, organized in 
about 1788; Second Baptist, 1789; First Associate Presbyterian, 1807; 
M. E. church of Galway, 1836; M. E. church of East Galway, 1858; 
First Christian church, 1814, and the Catholic church. 

Galway is the principal village. It was incorporated April 18, 1838, 
and the charter was amended April 27, 1869. East Galway (York's 
Corners), Mosherville, North Galway, West Galway and Whiteside 
Corners are hamlets. West Galway is locally known as TopNotch. 

The town of Galway was formed from Ballston March 7, 1792. It 
then comprised the territory now embraced within the limits of Gal- 
way, Providence, Edinburgh and the western part of Day. It was first 
known as "New Galloway." Providence was taken off in 1796. Prov- 
idence at first contained all the balance of the original town of Galway. 
The supervisors of the town since its organization have been: 

1792-94. John McClelland. 1795-1802, John Munro. 1803 04, Isaac Gere. 1805-08, 
Nehemiab Conde. 1809-10, A. Starkweather. 1811-12, Perez Otis. 1813, Stephen 
Wait. 1814, Perez Otis. 1815, A. Starkweather. 1816, Perez Otis. 1817, Gilbert 
Swan. 1818, Perez Otis. 1819. Thomas Alexander. 1820-21, Isaac Gere. 1822 25, 
Nathan Thompson. 1826-27, Perez Otis. 1828-33, Nathan Thompson. 1834-35, 
Dudley Smith. 1836, George Davidson. 1837-39, Azariah E. Stimson. 1840, Jesse 
H. Mead. 1841, Azariah E. Stimson. 1842-43, Lewis Stone. 1844, William B. 
Knox. 1845. John Whiteside. 1846 47, James Fuller. 1848, James M. Barker. 1849, 
Josiah Pulling. 1850, Benjamin Blair. 1851-52. Aaron Cook. 1853, Alexander H. 
Hicks. 1854, Morgan Lewis. 1855-57, Thomas Mairs. 1858, Benjamin Blair. 1859, 
Thomas Mairs. 1860, Ira Brockett. 1861, Harrison Allen. 1862, John Whiteside. 
1863-64, John N. Slocum. 1865, Thomas Mairs. 1866 69, Isaiah Fuller. 1870-71, 
William Buckwell. 1872 73, Samuel Cook. 1874, James D. Hays. 1875-76, William 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— EDINBURGH. 379 

Crouch. 1877, Lauren O. Kennedy. 1878, James D. Hays. 1879-80, Lauren O. 
Kennedy. 1881-82. William Buckwell. 1883, John H. Seabury. 1884-85, Harvey 
Crouch. 188G 87, Smith B. Cook. 1888-89, Frank L. Smith. 1890-92. Robert Kelly. 
1893, John H. Seabury. 1894, Samuel Kemp. 1895-97, Robert Shaw. 1898, Scott 
Glenn. 

TOWN OF EDINBURGH. 

Edinburgh is one of the towns of the western tier. It is bounded on 
the north by Day, on the east by Day, Corinth and Greenfield, on the 
south by Providence, and on the west by the county line. The Revised 
Statutes define the town as follows: 

The town of Edinburgh shall contain all that part of said county bounded south- 
erly by Providence, westerly by the bounds of the county, northerly by Day and 
easterly by Corinth. 

The town consists of hilly highlands, through the centre of which the 
Sacandaga river runs from the southwest corner in a northeasterly 
direction. The principal tributaries of this river in Edinburgh are 
Batcheller creek and Beecher's creek. 

The first settlements were not made until after the close of the Rev- 
olution. In 1787 Abijah Stark, a nephew of Gen. John Stark, the hero 
of Bennington, settled on the west side of the Sacandaga river about a 
mile from the Providence line. Soon after Jonathan Anderson, Na- 
thaniel Bass, Sylvanus Westcot and Samuel Randall settled in the same 
neighborhood. James and Amy Partridge settled on the hill on the 
opposite side of the river in 1795. Isaac Deming located about this 
time in the eastern part, near the Day line. John Sumner built the 
first saw mill in the town, about 1800, at Batchellerville. Isaac Dem- 
ing built the first grist mill and store. 

There are but two hamlets in Edinburgh. The most important is 
Batchellerville, located east of the Sacandaga near the centre of the 
town. Across the river lies Edinburgh, more commonly known as 
Beecher's Hollow. Both were formerly villages of considerable im- 
portance, but their industries are now small. The churches are: Pres- 
byterian church of Batchellerville, organized in 1808; Edinburgh Hill 
M. E. church, 1823-1834; M. E. church of Beecher's Hollow, 1820 to 
1825. 

The town of Edinburgh was erected from Providence March 13, 
1801, as Northfield. The name was changed to Edinburgh April 6, 
1808. The western part of Day was taken off in 1819. At the first 
town meeting, held in 1801, these officers were elected; 



380 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Supervisor, Robert Sumner. Assessors, Willard Trowbridge, Jordan Sprague, 
Jonathan Smith. Commissioners of highways, Thurston Wells, Sampson Hosley, 
Ephraim Potter. Overseers of the poor, Daniel Washburn, jr., John Sumner. Col- 
lector, Jordan Sprague. Constables, Jordan Sprague, Abel Brown. Overseers of 
highways, Daniel Washburn, jr., Charles Rhodes, Joshua Wells. David Cole, Jona- 
than Townsend, John Hamilton, Arba Perry, Samuel Rogers, James Andrus, Reu- 
ben Cornwell, Nathaniel Bass. Fence viewers, James Goodwin, Elisha Mix, Daniel 
Washburn, jr. Poundkeepers, William Fellows. Isaac Deming. 

Since the organization of the town the supervisors have been : 

1801-1804, Robert Sumner. 1805-1808, Ely Beecher. 1809-1810, Willard Trow- 
bridge. 1811-1812, Ely Beecher. 1813-1816, John Hamilton. 1817-1818, Amos 
Cook. 1819-1823, Ely Beecher. 1824, Amos Cook. 1825-1829, Ely Beecher. 1830, 
Amos Cook. 1831, Solomon Ellithorp. 1832, Amos Cook. 1833, Ely Beecher. 
1834-1835, Isaac Noyes. 1836, Solomon Ellithorp. 1837, Isaac Noyes. 1838, Samuel 
Manning. 1839-1840, Sherman Batcheller. 1841, Isaac Noyes. 1842-1843, Joseph 
Covin. 1844, Samuel Batcheller. 1845, Isaac Noyes. 1846, Samuel Batcheller. 
1847, Henry M. Torrey. 1848, Joseph L. Snow. 1849-1850, Solomon Ellithorp. 
1851-1852, Ira Beecher. 1853, Samuel Batcheller. 1854, John K. Anderson. 1855- 
1856, Sherman Batcheller. 1857, James Partridge. 1858, Joseph Covill. 1859, 
Eugene Damon. 1860-1861, Levi S. Noyes. 1862, William W. Hunt. 1863, Wins- 
low E. Snow. 1864, Isaac Noyes, jr. 1865, Leman Partridge. 1866, Winslow E. 
Snow. 1867-1868, Cyrus Sumner. 1869. Winslow E. Snow. 1870, Silas H. Torrey. 
1871. Winslow E. Snow. 1872, James Green. 1873, John W. Latcher. 1874, Lucien 
De Golia. 1875-1876, Silas H. Torrey. 1877, Leman Partridge. 1878-1879, Irwin 
De Golia. 1880, H. Ransom Colson. 1881-1883, Samuel E. Brownell. 1883, David 
A. Torrey. 1884-1885, George W. King. 1886, Solomon Sumner. 1887, Faulkner 
E. Noyes. 1888-1889, John W. Olmstead. 1890-1891, George W. Ostrander. 1892- 
1893, Marion H. Frasier. 1894-1895, William H. Mosher. 1896-1897, John C. Stead. 
1898, Samuel Brownell. 

TOWN OF GREENFIELD. 

Greenfield lies north of the centre of the count}'. It is bounded on 
the north by Corinth, on the east by Wilton, on the south by Saratoga 
Springs and Milton and on the west by Providence and Edinburgh. 
The town is defined as follows by the Revised Statutes: 

The town of Greenfield shall contain all that part of said county beginning at the 
southeast corner of lot number seven, in the seventeenth allotment of the patent of 
Kayaderosseras, and running thence westerly along the north bounds of the six- 
teenth allotment of said patent to the southeast corner of Providence ; then north on 
the east line of the same to the southwest corner of Corinth; then easterly along the 
south bounds of Corinth to the west bounds of the twenty-third allotment; then 
along the same southerly to the north bounds of the seventeenth allotment; then 
along the same southwesterly to lot number seven in said seventeenth allotment; 
then .southerly along the east bounds thereof to the place of beginning. 




CLIFFORD E. C'\L)Y 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— GREENFIELD. 381 

From the northern boundary of the town the Kayaderosseras moun- 
tain range extends in a southwesterly direction to the southwest corner. 
In the eastern part are hills forming a part of the Palmertown range. 
Between the two lies a valley averaging six miles in width. The 
historic Lake Desolation lies on the western boundary. Kayaderos- 
seras creek flows southerly through the central and southwestern part of 
the town. The Adirondack railroad enters the southeastern corner of 
the town, runs west, then north through the centre. 

Tradition says that Greenfield was first settled prior to 1778 by An- 
thony Haggerty and Thomas Root. The first settlements of which 
anything definite is known were made in 178G by Gershom Morehouse, 
Charles Dake, William Dake, John Dake, Benjamin Dake and others 
near Middle Grove; by William Scott at Scott's Corners, now North 
Greenfield; by Isaac Reynolds, near Greenfield Centre, and the Fitch 
family at St. John's Corners. Gershom Morehouse built the first saw 
mill in town, at Middle Grove, in 1780. In 1793 he built the first grist 
mill in town. Benjamin Clinch had the first store in town, at Porter's 
Corners, in 1787. Joel Reynolds came to Greenfield Centre in 1789 
and opened the first tavern. The place is now the property of Dr. 
lanthus G. Johnson. 

Middle Grove, or Jamesville, is in the southwestern part of the town, 
on the Kayaderosseras creek. Important paper mills, described else- 
where, are located here. Greenfield Centre is a little east of the centre. 
Porter's Corners lies a little northwest of the centre. All are hamlets. 
The churches of Greenfield are : First Congregational church, organ- 
ized in 1790; First Baptist, 1791; Baptist church of Jamesville, 1846; 
M. E. church of Greenfield Centre, 1800 to 1810; Universalist church 
of Porter's Corners, 1816; M. E. church of Porter's Corners, 1840. St. 
John's lodge No. 22, F. & A. M., the oldest Masonic lodge of the county, 
was chartered February 20, 1802. Greenfield Centre lodge No. 308, 
I. O. O. F., was organized February 28, 1872. 

Greenfield enjoys the distinction of being the largest township in 
Saratoga county. Before the erection of the county its territory lay 
partly in the district of Saratoga and partly in the district of Ballston. 
In 1791 it belonged to the towns of Saratoga and Ballston. In 1792 
the western half formed a part of the town of Milton. The town was 
erected March 12, 1793, and a part of Hadley, Corinth, and the eastern 
part of Day were taken off in 1801. The first town meeting was held 
April 1, 1794. Since that year the supervisors of Greenfield have been 
as follows : 



383 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

17-94, William Scott. 1795, John St. John. 1796, William Scott. 1797-1801, Asahel 
Porter. 1802-03, John St. John. 1804-07, Salmon Child. 1808-09, Asa C. Barney. 
1810-11, John Prior. 1813 15, John Pettit. 1816-17, Samuel McCrea. 1818-19, Charles 
Dake. 1830, Elisha Wing. 1831-34, Nehemiah Wing. 1835-29, Jonathan Lap.ham. 
1830-31, Henry Miller. 1833-34, Adam Bockes. 1835-38, Edwin C. Weed. 1839-40, 
Levi Smith. 1841, Freeman Tourtelot. 1842, E. C. Weed. 1843, Joseph Wood. 1844, 
Chester Foote. 1845, Calvin W. Dake. 1846, F. Tourtelot. 1847-49, Frederick J. 
Wing. 1850-51, Benjamin F. Prior. 1853-53, Harmon G. Sweeney. 1854, Oscar 
Granger. 1855, G. Sweeney. 1856, Hiram S. Freeman. 1857-58, Lewis Wood. 1859- 
60. Abiel C. Allard. 1861-62, Alonzo Russell. 1863-64, lanthus G. Johnson. 1865, F. 
Tourtelot. 1866-67, Warren Dake. 1868-69, De Witt C. Hoyt. 1870, Warren Dake. 
1871-72, Warren Bockes. 1873, John H. Smith. 1874-75, James V. Smith. 1876-77, 
Josiah L. Rowland. 1878, John R. Harris. 1879, Charles \V. Spaulding. 1880, John 
R. Harris. 1881-83, Benjamin S. Robinson. 1884, Warren Dake. 1885-86, Augustus 
E. Allard. 1887-88, Jedediah Kilmer. 1889-93, Charles W. Spaulding. 1894 97, Clif- 
ford E.Cady. 1898, Darrow. 

Following is a list of those who have served as town clerks: 

1794-97, Zenas Winsor. 1798, George Shove. 1799 1801, Lewis Graves. 1803-00, 
John Bockes. 1807-08, John King. 1809-11, Giles Robinson. 1813-15, Elihu Wing. 
1816, Charles Lewis. 1817-18, John Williams. 1819-31, John Bockes. 1822, John 
Williams. 1833, Elihu Gifford, Elihu Wing (vice Gilford, removed from town). 1824 
Asahel P. Cronkhite. 1825-37, Nehemiah Wing. 1838-39, Solomon Dake. 1880, 
Nehemiah Wing. 1831, Levi Smith. 1833-33, Darius Johnson. 1834-38, Levi 
Smith. 1839-40, John S. Peacock. 1841-43, Warren Bockes. 1844, N. D. Morehouse. 
1845, Joseph Carr 1846 48, William H. Bushnell. 1849-51. Theron Barrows. 1853, 
Charles B. Wing. 1853, James V. Smith. 1854, Ambrose Young. 1855-56, Richard 
Hewitt. 1857, Andrew M. Young. 1858. Richard Hewitt. 1859-63, George W. 
Hazard. 1863-64, Henry C. Olds. 1865-68, Benjamin S. Robinson. 1869, John H. 
Smith. 1870, Charles S. Tubbs. 1871, Stuart Early. 1873-74, Charles S. Tubbs. 
1875-77, Melvin Spaulding. 1878-79, James G. Weedon. 1880-81, Lee A. Smith. 
1883, A. Edson Hall. 1883, Edward Rood. 1884, B. S. Robinson. 1885-88. A. Ed- 
son Hall. 1889-91, Allen F. Davis. 1893, Arthur W. Johnson. 1893, A. F. Davis. 
1894-97, Byron S. Johnson. 1898, Edwin Crosthwait. 

The following have served as justices of the peace: 

1831, John Morehouse. 1832, Staflford Lapham, Ale.\ander H. Scott. 1833, Staf- 
ford Lapham. 1834, Nathan Daniels. 1835, Henry Miller. 1836, Ale.xander H. 
Scott. 1837, John Williams. 1838, Nathan Daniels. 1839, Henry Miller. 1840, A. 
H. Scott, John Morehouse. 1841, John Williams. 1843, Andrew McGaffey. 1843, 
John Morehouse, Asa Ingerson. 1844, John Gifford. 1845, John Williams. 1846, 
Richard Hewitt. 1847, Devine H. Young. 1848, John Gifford. 1849, John Will- 
iams. 1850, Richard Hewitt. 1851, Hiram S. Freeman. 1852, John Gifford, Lewis 
Wood. 1853, Nelson D. Morehouse. 1854, Moses Ballou. 1855, Joel B. Morehouse. 
1856, John Gifford. 1857, Nelson D. Morehouse. 1858, William H. Ingerson. 1859, 
Moses Ballou, Alexander Scott. 1860, James V. Smith. 1861, Seymour B. Ingham. 
1863, A. H. ScotL 1863, Moses Ballou. 1864, Daniel Palmer. 1865, Seymour B. 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— DAY. 383 

Ingham, John Wagman. 1866. James V. Smith, Benjamin F. Weed. 1867, B. F. 
Weed, A. H. Scott. 1868, A. H. Scott, Calvin W. Dake. 1869. S. B. Ingham. 
1870, Charles S. Latham. 1871, Calvin W. Dake. 1872, Benjamin S. Robinson, 
John H. Smith. 1873, Theodore Comstock. 1874, Charles S. Latham. 1875, James 
M. Dake. 1876, B. S. Robinson, Starks Dake. 1877, Theodore Comstock. 1878, 
Charles S. Latham. 1879, Charles D. Gardnier. 1880, Elihu Wmg.' 1881, George 
H. Hodges, J. V. Smith, William C. Smith. 1883, Charles S. Latham. 1883, William 
Gray. 1884, J. V. Smith, Charles D. Gardnier. 1885, William C. Smith. 1886, 
Charles S. Latham. 1887. Moses D. Rowell. 1888, William G. Boggs, B. S. Robin- 
son. 1889, William C. Smith. 1890, Charles S. Latham. Charles D. Gardnier. 1891, 
Charles D. Gardnier. 1892, B. S. Robinson. 1893, George H. Hodges. 1894. 
Charles S. Latham. 1895, William G. Boggs. 1896, Lee A. Smith. 1897, George 
H. Hodges. 1898, Charles S. Latham. 

TOWN OF DAY. 

Day is the most northwesterly town of Saratoga county. Its nortli- 
ern boundary is the county line; it is bounded on the east by Hadley, 
on the south by Corinth and Edinburgh, and on the west by Edinburgh 
and the western boundary of the county. The town is described as 
follows by the Revised Statutes: 

The town of Day shall contain all that part of said county, beginning at the east 
corner of the farm of Walter Hunt, on the north bank of the west branch of the Hud- 
son river, and running from thence north thirty degrees and forty minutes west to 
the rear line of the river division of Palmer's Purchase; then along the said rear 
line westerly until it intersects the west bounds of the county; then along the said 
west bounds of the county, nortberly, to the north bounds of the county; then along 
the same until a course of south thirty degrees and forty minutes east will strike the 
most northerly corner of lot No. 50, in Palmer's Purchase; then south thirty degrees 
and forty minutes east, to and along the easterly bounds of the lot marked H. T. P. 
to the said corners of said lot No. 50; then along the east bounds of said lot to the 
Sacandaga river; then on a course that will strike the east bounds of lot No. 3, in 
the subdivision of the twenty-fourth allotment of the Kayaderosseras patent; then 
south along the said east bounds to the town of Corinth; then west along the bounds 
of Corinth to the west corner thereof; and thence to the place of beginning. 

Day is the most mountainous and most picturesque town in the 
county. The centre and southern half is occupied by a part of the 
Kayaderosseras range. Some of the peaks are quite lofty. Oak moun- 
tain and Bald mountain, both northwest of the centre of the town, reach 
an altitude of over 900 feet above the Sacandaga river, and probably 
1,500 feet above the level of the sea. Rockwell's mountain, near Day 
Centre, is 200 feet lower. The Sacandaga river winds its way in a 

' Did not qualify. 



384 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tortuous channel easterly through the southern part, the valley being 
most picturesque in places. Its principal tributary, Paul creek, drains 
Livingston lake, on the northern boundary, and flows south. Besides 
Livingston lake, which is the largest body of water in Day, Sand lake 
lies near the northern boundary, two and one-half miles west of Liv- 
ingston lake; Mud lake lies about three miles south of Sand lake. The 
town consists largely of wild forest, with few highways except in the 
southern part. Deer, bears and other game abound. 

The town was first settled in 1797 by David Johnson, a Revolutionary 
soldier, who located in the extreme eastern part, on the banks of the 
Sacandaga. Jonas Bond and Phineas Austin settled a short time after- 
ward on the north side of the river, about a mile east of Day Centre. 
Henry Paul came in 1801, and in 1805 built a saw mill and grist mill, 
the first in town, at the mouth of Paul creek. 

The western part of the village of Conklingville lies in Day. Besides 
this village, West Day (Huntsville) is a hamlet on the river in the 
southwest corner; Day Centre is about three miles further down the 
stream, and Crowville is a small hamlet on Sand creek, three and a 
half miles from its mouth. The Presbyterian church of Day was or- 
ganized in 1842 as the Reformed Protestant Dutch church; the M. E. 
church of Day Centre in 1865; the First Christian church in 1833; the 
Christian church of West Day in 1857. 

Day was erected from Hadley and Edinburgh April 17, 1819 and 
was at first named Concord. The name was changed in 1827 in honor 
of Eliphaz Da)', a prominent lumberman who had died a short time 
before. The supervisors of the town have been : 

1830-26, Eliphaz Day; 1827-38, Stephen Dawson; 1829-34, Samuel Stimsou; 1835, 
George Hunt; 1836-37, Amos Lawton ; 1838, James D. Delong; 1839-42, Eliphaz M. 
Day; 1843-47, Zopher I. Delong; 1848. John J. Wait; 1849-55, Samuel Y. Rockwell; 
1856, George Baker; 1857, Samuel Y. Rockwell; 1858-59, Zopher I. Delong; 1860-61, 
Peter V. Fraker; 1862-63, Isaac N. Scott; 1864-67, Samuel Y. Rockwell; 1868, Isaac 
N. Scott; 1809, Hiram Deming; 1870-73, F. G. Macomber; 1874, Erastus Darling; 
1875. Irving W. Guiles; 1876-77, Erastus Darling; 1878, Isaac N. Scott; 1879, Sam- 
uel Y. Rockwell; 1880-81, Hiram Darling; 1882, Erastus Darling; 1883, Samuel Y. 
Rockwell; 1884, James Green; 1885-86, Timothy Sullivan; 1887-88, Irving W. Guiles ; 
1889-90, Lewis Salmon; 1891-93, Benjamin F. Johnson; 1893, Frank Marcellus; 
1894-95, Eugene F. Guiles; 1896-97. Hiram C. Denton; 1898, Charles H. Van 
Avery. 

The town clerks have been as follows since 1847. The records up to 
that time are missing: 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— WILTON. 385 

1847-48, Gordon Dimick. 1849, George Baker. 1850, Gordon Dimick. 1851- 
53, Warren A. Randall. 1853-54, H. C. Palmer. 1855, Warren A. Randall. 1856- 
58, William Scott. 1859-61, Isaac N. Scott. 1862, John F. Stirason. 1863, James O. 
Paul. 1864-68, Hiram Deming, 1869-70, Edgar L. Deming. 1871-73, Erastus 
Darling. 1873 74, Edgar L. Deming. 1875, Thomas D. Yates. 1876, George F. 
Paul. 1877, Charles Van Avery. 1878, Hiram Darling. 1879-81, A. H. Paul. 
1883 83, George F. Paul. 1884, E. F. Guiles. 1885, George F. Paul. 1886 Austin 
Howe. 1887-88, Charles Putnam. 1889-93, E. F. Guiles. 1894-98, Van R. Rhodes. 

The following justices of the peace have been elected by the people: 

1845, John Yates. 1846, Anthony Allen. 1847, Samuel Y. Rockwell. 1848, Zo- 
pher I. Delong. 1849, John Yates. 1850, Anthony Allen (long term), George Baker 
(short term). 1851, Samuel Y. Rockwell. 1852, George Baker. 1853, Joseph A. 
King. 1854, William Wait. 1855. John J. Wait. 1856, Samuel Y. Rockwell. 1857, 
Joseph A. King. 1858, George Baker (long term), L. H. Frasier (short term). 1859, 
L. H. Frasier. 1860, S. Y. Rockwell (long term) Zopher I. Delong (short term). 
1861, Hezekiah Smith (long term), S. Y. Rockwell (short term). 1862, Thomas 
Frost. 1863, P. L. Johnson. 1864, George Baker (long term), William Scott (short 
term). 1865, Hezekiah Smith (long term), A. Allen and S. Y. Rockwell (vacancies). 
1866, S. Y. Rockwell. 1867, J. S. Johnson (long terra), S. Y. Rockwell and J. S. 
Johnson (vacancies). 1868, Charles L. Marcellus. 1869, John Fay Stimson. 1870, 
S. Y. Rockwell (long term), John J. Wait (short term). 1871, Calvin Allen (long 
term), S. Y. Rockwell (short term). 1873, C. L. Marcellus. 1873, George Baker. 
1874, S. Y. Rockwell (long term), J. F. Stimson (short term). 1875, Seth Aldrich. 
1876, Warren A. Randall. 1877, J. M. Perqua. 1878, S. Y. Rockwell. 1879, B. F. 
Johnson (long term), I. J. Flansburgh (short term). 1880, Seth Aldrich. 1881, 
George Baker. 1883, I. J. Flansburgh. 1883, Seth Aldrich (did not qualify). 1884, 
John Curley (long term), B. F. Johnson (short term). 1885. Eugene Frost (long 
term), J. M. Perqua (short term). 1886. Charles A. Yates. 1887, B. F. Johnson. 
1888, L. B. Shepard. 1889, Eugene Frost. 1890, Charles A. Yates. 1891, O. E. 
Kathan. 1892, L. B. Shepard. 1893, Eugene Frost. 1894, Charles A. Yates. 1895, 
O. E. Kathan. 1896, James Green. 1897, W. W. Paul. 1898, Charles A. Yates. 

TOWN OF WILTON. 

Wilton' lies northeast of the centre of the county. It is bounded on 
the north by Corinth and Moreau, on the east by Northumberland, on 
the south b_v Saratoga and Saratoga Springs, and on the west by Green- 
field. The town is thus defined by the Rev-ised Statutes: 

The town of Wilton shall contain all that part of the said county bounded north- 
erly by the north bounds of Northumberland continued west to the northeast corner 
of Greenfield, easterly by Northumberland, southerly by a westerly continuation of 
the south bounds of Northumberland, and westerly by Greenfield. 

> In colonial times this region was known as Pahncrtown. For many years it was a much 
more important community than Saratoga Springs. 
•25 



386 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The central and southwestern parts of Wilton are undulating or 
broken b)' low ridges. In the northwestern part are mountains of the 
Palmertown range of the Adirondacks. Mount McGregor, one of the 
highest peaks of this range, lies partly in this town, in the extreme 
northwestern corner. The principal streams are Snoek kill. Bog 
Meadow brook and Cold brook. There are a few mineral springs in 
the town. Perry's pond, which is drained by Snoek kill, is the princi- 
pal body of water. The main line of the Delaware and Hudson Canal 
company's railroad passes through the southeastern half, running south- 
west and northeast, and the Mount McGregor railroad runs north and 
south through the western part. 

Wilton, then known as Palmertown, was first settled by William and 
Samuel Brisbin, brothers, about 1764. On the south branch of Snoek 
kill they built a saw mill, but abandoned the place when the Revolu- 
tion began. Rowland Perry and his eight sons came in 1770. James 
and William McGregor, brothers, located in the northwestern part of 
the town in 1787. Benjamin Phillips and Stephen King kept the first 
taverns. John Laing built a saw mill near Emerson's Corners in 1775. 
Isaac Ostrom opened the first store, in 1795. The first grist mill was 
built by Miller McGregor. 

Wilton being almost exclusively an agricultural town its villages are 
small and unimportant. Wilton, in the northeastern part, is the largest. 
South Wilton is in the southern part. Emerson's Corners is located 
southeast of Wilton. At the latter place the first church was built, 
about 1805, by the Congregational society. The Baptist church of 
Wilton was organized in 1817, the M. E. churches of Emerson's Cor- 
ners and of South Wilton before 1850, and the Loudon Protestant Meth- 
odist church in South Wilton in 1833. 

Wilton was formed from Northumberland in 1818. At the first 
town meeting, held in March, 1819, the principal officers elected were: 

Supervisor, Dudley Emerson. Clerk, Henry Reynolds. Assessors, Benjamin 
Dimmick, Jason Adams, William Comstock. Commissioners of highways, William 
Forbes, Lyndes Emerson, William Ingerson. Overseers of the poor, James Mc- 
Gregor, James Bullard. Inspectors of schools, George W. Fish, Cornelius I. Fonda, 
John J. Swartwout, Enoch M. Place, Samuel Hoag, Thomas Sherman. Commis- 
sioners of schools, Jabez Reed, Selden Emerson, Cornelius I. Swartwout. 

Since that time the supervisors of the town have been as follows; 

1819-23, Dudley Emerson. 1824. William Comstock. 1825-20, Seth Perry. 1827 
John J. Swartwout. 1828-29, Seth Perry. 1830-31, Dudley Emerson. 1832-34, 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— WILTON. 387 

Lyndes Emerson. 1835, Cyrus Perry. 183G, William McGregor. 1837-38, Sir 
Launcelot Garner. 1839-41, Lyndes Emerson. 1843, Henry Reynolds. 1843-44, 
David Carr. 1845, Lyndes Emerson. 1846, Hiram Dimmick. 1847-48, Seth E. 
Calkins. 1849-r)0, Lyndes Emerson. 1851, Richard F. Buckbee. 1852, Hiram 
Dimmick. 1853, William Rouse. 1854, David Carr. 1855, William Rouse. 1856- 
57, Tabor B. Reynolds. 1858, Henry E. Wagman. 18.59, Jarvis Butler. 1860-62, 
Daniel M. Gailor. 1863-67. Tabor B. Reynolds. 1868, Caleb Boyce. 1869-70, 
Ananias Boyce. 1871-73, Warren B. CoUamer. 1873, Ananias Boyce. 1874-75, 
David E. Chase. 1876-77, Bartlett B. Grippin. 1878-79, Warren B. CoUamer. 1880- 
81, Bartlett B. Grippin. 1882-83, Byron J. Murray. 1884, B. B. Grippin. 1885, 
Chauncey B. Ide. 1886, B. B. Grippin. 1887-89, Roger H. Staples. 1890, B. B. 
Grippin. 1891-93, Harry M. Lincoln. 1893, B. B. Grippin. 1894-95, Edgar J. 
Smith. 1896-97, B. B. Grippin. 1898, Ransom Varney. 

Following is a list of the town clerks: 

1819-1821, Henry Reynolds. 1833, CorneUus I. Swartwout. 1823-1834, Henry 
Reynolds. 1835, John Fitzgerald. 1836, Cyrus Perry. 1837, James McGregor. 
1828, David Brill. 1839-30, S. T. Van Deryee. 1831-1833, Theodore Y. Comstock. 
1833, Eli Stiles. 1834, Giles Dimmick. 1835, Augustus H. Pearsall. 1836, Aaron 
C. Giflford. 1837, William H. Taylor. 1838, Henry Reynolds. 1839-1840, T. Y. 
Comstock. 1841, Giles Dimmick. 1843, David Carr. 1843-1844, David E. Chase. 
1845, David R. Taylor, 1846, Staflford S. Carr. 1847, James T. Cornell. 1848, 
Sherard K. Chase. 1849, George W. Perry. 1850, William W. Comstock. 185], 
James T. Cornell. 1853-1855, William W. Comstock. 1856, Oscar F. Stiles. 1857, 
William W. Comstock. 1858, Edwin G. Perry. 18.59, Miles B. Grippin. 1860. Will- 
iam H. Taylor. 1861, William L. Cooper. 1863, George H. Traver. 1863, M. B. 
Grippin. 1864-1865, G. H. Traver. 1866-1867, John E. Forbes. 1868-1870, Daniel 
■ Washburn. 1871-1874, Sidney B. King. 1875, William H. Goodale. 1876-1879, S. 
B. King. 1880-1883. Charles H. Pitts. 188;:!-1884, Edgar D. Clements. 1885-1886, 
R. H. Staples. 18S7-1890, C. C. Van Rensselaer. 1891-1893, R. H. Staples. 1893- 
1895, C. C. Van Rensselaer. 1896-1898, Edgar D. Clements. 

These have served as justices of the peace since such officers have 
been elected by the people: 

1830, Cornelius I. Fonda. 1833, Robert Place, William Comstock. 1833, John J. 
Swartwout. 1834, Cornelius I. Fonda. 1835, Robert Place, Peter Angle. 1836, 
Peter Angle. 1837, Obadiah Green, Jason Adams. 1838, Seth Perry. 1839, Dudley 
Emerson. 1840, Peter Angle, Cornelius J. Boyce. 1841, Obadiah Green. 1842, 
Abner Garrison. 1843, Luther French. 1844, Stephen Olney. 1845, Obadiah 
Green. 1846, Isaac T. Green, John A. Brackett,' Gideon Sherman.' 1847, Luther 
French. 1848, Daniel Wait, Adam Boyce. 1849, Obadiah Green. 1850, Perry P. 
Billings. 1851, Isaac F. Green. 1853, Daniel Wait. 1853, Jesse Murray, George D. 
Angle. 1854, Ananias Boyce. 1855, Obadiah Green, 1857, Isaac F. Green. 1858, 
David Carr. 1859, John Quick. 1800, Jacob Boyce. 18G1, George C. Morehouse. 
1862, Philip Varney. 1863, Caleb Boyce, David Carr. 1864, David Carr. 1865, G. 

' Tie vote: records du nuL show who served. 



388 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

C.Morehouse. 1866, Philip Varney, Moses Miller. 1867,'Jarvis Butler. 1868, David 
Cam 1869, James M. Gallon 1870, Milon Seeley. 1871, Caleb Boyce. 1873, David 
Carr. 1873, Jarvis Butler. 1874. George H. Traver, J. W. Marshall. 1875, Caleb 
Boyce. 1876, Philip Varney. 1877, John L. Buchanan. 1878, G. H. Traver, 1879. 
G. C. Morehouse. 1880, G. C. Van Denburgh, Phihp Varney. 1881, G. C. Van 
Denburgh. 1882. O. N. Lockwood. 1883, Caleb Boyce. 1884, Philip Varney, A. 
M. Hays, Oscar Cook. 1885. G. C. Van Denburgh. 1886, Oscar Cook. 1887, A. 
M. Hays. 1888, Frank D. Roods. 1889. G. C. Van Denburgh. 1890, Franklin H. 
Smith. 1891, Olney L. Brown. 1893, F. D. Roods, A. M. Hays. 1893, Gardner 
Perry. 1894, Ransom Varney. 1895, George H. Pratt. 1896, F. D. Roods. 1897, 
Gardner Perry. 1898, Elmer Freeborn, John H. Westfall, 

TOWN OF PROVIDENCE. 

Providence occupies a central position in the western tier of towns. 
It is botinded on the north by Edinburgh, on the east by Greenfield, 
on the south by Galway and on the west by the county line. The Re- 
vised Statutes describe the town as follows: 

The town of Providence shall contain all that part of said county beginning at the 
northwest corner of Milton, and running thence a west course on a parallel line with 
the north bounds of the town of Charlton to the west bounds of the county ; then 
north along the same six miles; then easterly on a straight line parallel with the 
south bounds to a line running north from the northwest corner of Milton ; then 
south along said line to the place of beginning. 

Providence consists principally of hilly lands. In the western part 
the land is more nearly level. The entire northern part is occupied by 
a high table-land known as the Maxon mountain. Near the centre of 
the town lies Round lake, which is drained by Hans creek. Lake Des- 
olation lies on the eastern border, partly in Greenfield. Its outlet is 
Kennyetto or Hagedorn's creek, which flows southwesterly through the 
town. Frenchman's creek rises west of the centre and flows southwest. 

Nathaniel Wells and Seth KeHogg are said to have been the first 
settlers, coming at the close of the Revolution, but nothing further is 
known of them. Thomas Shankland, who located at Hagedorn's mills 
in 178G, built there the first saw mill in town. Soon afterward he built 
a grist mrll. Shankland also kept the first tavern. Martin Sleezer and 
Jonathan Finch were other early inhabitants. The first mill at Fay 
ville was built by Van Hoesen about 1800. The first woolen fac- 
tory was built in 180G or 1807 by Isaiah Fuller, half a mile west of 
Hagedorn's mills. 

There are several hamlets in Providence. Barkerville lies south of the 
centre; Glenville is northwest of the centre; Fayville is in the northwest 



GAZETTEER OF TOWNS— PROVIDENCE. 389 

corner, near the Edinburgh line; West Providence and Hagedorn's 
mills are in the southwestern part, and Providence is southwest of Bark- 
erville, on the Galway line. 

The Baptist church of Providence was organized in 1790, the Chris- 
ian church of Barkerville in 1845, the M. E. church at West Providence 
in 1871. 

The town of Providence was organized February 5, 1790, and was 
taken from Galway. At the first town meeting held in April following, 
these officers were elected : 

Supervisor, Stephen Wait; clerk, Peleg Hart; commissioners of highways, Daniel 
Washburn, jr.. Edmund Wait, Ebenezer Hill; assessors, John Rhodes, Edmund 
Wait, Zebedee Potter; collectors, SuUivant D. Hubbell, Thurston Wells; commis- 
sioners of schools, James Goodwin, Benjamin St. John, Ebenezer Hill; overseers of 
the poor, Elisha Mix, John Thomas. 

Since that date the following have served as supervisors of Provi- 
dence: 

1796-1800, Stephen Wait. 1801-06, William Carpenter. 1807, Jonathan Shipman. 
1808, Othniel Alien. 1809-13, Calvin Wheeler. 1814, Jonathan Shipman. 1815-16, 
Othniel Allen. 1817-28, Calvin Wheeler. 1829, Jonathan Hagedorn. 1830, 
Calvin Wheeler. 1831-33, Seabury Allen. 1834, David Page. 1885-37, Calvin 
Wheeler. 1838-41, Hiram Carpenter. 1842, Nehemiah St. John. 1843, Hiram 
Carpenter. 1844, Nehemiah St. John. 1845, Hiram Carpenter. 1840-47, Abram 
Manchester. 1848. William V. Clark. 1849-50, Stephen Rockwell. 1851-52, William 
V. Clark. 1853, William S. Nash. 1854-55, William V. Clark. 1856-57, S. L. Hage- 
dorn. 1858, William V. Clark. 1859-60, James Sumner, jr. 1861, S. L. Hagedorn. 
1862, Stephen Rockwell. 1863-65, William V. Clark. 1866, Mosher Chase. 1867-72, 
William V. Clark. 1873, Stephen Rockwell. 1874-75, William V. Clark. 1876, 
Philip Mead. 1877, Stephen Rockwell. 1878-79, Joseph B. Sowl. 1880, Stephen 
Rockwell. 1881, Hiram H. Follett. 1882, Stephen Rockwell. 1883, William S. 
Nash. 1884, Philip Mead. 1885. Hawley Follett. 1886, Mosher Chase. 1887, 
Henry Trevett. 1888-90, Reuben W. Knapp. 1891-92. John W. Cook. 1893, Philip 
Mead. 1894-97, Henry L. Trevett. 1898, Hawley Follett. 

The town clerks' records have been wretchedly maintained, as in 
many other towns in the county, and it is possible to give a partial list 
only of the other principal officers. Among these are the following 
town clerks: 

1796-99, Peleg Hart. 1812, Artemus Chase. 1840. S. L. Hagedorn. 1849, Ezra 
T. Austin. 1850, William A. Sleezer. 1851. William S. Nash. 1852-53, Abram 
Manchester. 1854, Jeremiah Manchester. 1855-57, James Merrihew. 18.58, J. W. 
Briggs. 1859, Joseph H. Dudley. 1860, William B. Carpenter. 1861, James L. 
Hagedorn. 1862, William O. Sumner. 186:?-65, J. W. Briggs. 1866, James Merrihew. 
1867-69, J. W. Briggs. 1870-73, J. L. Hagedorn. 1874-75. Asher Cook, jr. 1876, 



390 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Willard Monroe. 1877, Henry M. Lewis. 1878, WiUard Monroe. 1879-80, H. H. 
Follett. 1881, Herman V. Briggs. 1882 Daniel Shaw. 1883, Major Monroe. 1884, 
Hawley Follett. 1885-86, William T. James. 1887, Walter Matteson (resigned and 
Orlando E. Sism appointed). 1888, Ami E. Brown. 1889-90, Harper C. Rogers. 
1891-93, Charles Trevett. 1893, Charles Hagedorn. 1894-95, Arthur W. Terry. 
89 6-97, J. O. Sleezer. 1898, WiUard H. Wait. 

The justices elected by the people, as far as the records .show, have 
been: 

1856, Robert Cornell. 1857, Lyman Gates. 1858, Seneca Deuel. 1859. Abram 
Manchester. 1860, Jacob Clute. 1861, J. C. Robertson. 1863. William M. Stark, 
Seneca Deuel. 1863, Henry Sandford. 1864, Jacob Clute. 1865, Anson B. Pease. 
1866, Jacob Clute. 1867, Henry Sandford. 1868, Anson B. Pease. 1869, Henry 
Sandford. Eli.sha Alvord. 1870, Joseph B. Soule, Abram Manchester. 1871, Jere 
C. Bogart. 1873, John Rosevelt. 1873, Charles E. Deuel. 1874, Joseph B. Soule. 
1875, Jere C. Bogart. 1870, Joseph Clute. 1877, Charles E. Deuel. 1878, Howland 
Briggs. 1879. John F. Mastin. 1880, Jacob Clute, Henry M. Lewis. 1881, Jacob 
Clute. 1882, L. L. Gibbs, Tliomas H. Shaw. 1883, Henry L. Trevett, Jere C. Bo- 
gart. 1884, Jacob Clute. 1885. E. A. Clossoii. 1886, Henry L. Trevett. 1887, Jere 
C. Bogarl. 1888, Daniel Shaw. 1889, Alexander Van Dyke, Lansing Finch. 1890, 
Henry L. Trevett, Alexander Van Dyke. 1893, Alexander Van Dyke. 1894, Elmer 
Van Pelt, O. E. Sism. 1896, Daniel Shaw. 1897, Amos Rhoades. 1898, Albert 
Allen. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

The Discovery and Development of the Celebrated Mineral Springs of Saratoga 
County. — High Rock, "the Medicine Spring of the Great Spirit," First Seen by a 
French Officer — Sir William Johnson's Visit — George Washington, Philip Schuyler 
and Joseph Bonaparte Also Early Visitors — Analysis of the Principal .Springs of 
Saratoga — Discovery of the First Spruig at Ballston Spa in 1771 — Development of 
the Resort — Saratoga Gains the Lead as a Re.sort and Holds it — Analysis of the 
Ballston Springs. 

The mineral springs of Saratoga county, which are located princi- 
pally in Saratoga Springs and Ballston Spa, are among the most cele- 
brated in the world, on accoimt of the valuable medicinal properties 
they possess. To the presence of the springs the village of Saratoga 
Springs owes its prestige as one of the most famous summer resorts in 
the world. The inineral springs are located, for the most part, in an 
irregular valley several miles in length. Those at Ballston Spa are 



•THE MINERAL SPRINGS. y91 

located mostly in the valley, but one rising in comparatively high 
ground. The White Sulphur spring is located near the eastern shore of 
Saratoga lake. A spring, now inactive, is located at Round Lake. 

The narrow valley at Saratoga Springs in which the most important 
springs are located is at the base of the chains of mountains toward the 
northwest. Beneath it is a " fault " or fracture in the earth's crust, 
which penetrates several geological strata. The rocks on the east side 
of the "fault" are several hundred feet below those on the west side, 
this displacement preventing the free flow of waters past the "fault," 
thus throwing the mineral water towards the earth's surface. 

The historic spring of Saratoga is High Rock. Long before the 
white man visited the Western Continent it was known and appre- 
ciated by the red man, who called it the "medicine spring of the 
Great Spirit." Probably the first white man who visited the spring 
was a sick officer of the French army, carried thither by the Indians 
from Fort Carillon. Sir William Johnson was carried there on a litter 
in 1767, having been persuaded by the Indians that its waters would 
cure an illness of long standing he frequently suffered in consequence 
of an old wound. General Philip Schuyler erected, in 1784, the first 
frame house built at the springs. 

Sir William Johnson at this time — August, 1767— was the British 
government's general superintendent of Indian affairs in North Amer- 
ica, colonel of the Six Nations of New York and a major-general in the 
British army. He then resided at Johnson hall, his splennid baronial 
mansion at Johnstown. His wife was MoUie Brandt, an Indian prin- 
cess, a sister of the great Mohawk war-chief, Ta-en-da-ne-ga, or Joseph 
Brandt. His first wife, to whom he had never been formally wedded, 
was Lana Wallaslous, a German girl employed as a servant by Alexander 
and Harmon Phillips, who resided two miles below Johnson's residence 
on the south side of the Mohawk." 

When Sir William visited High Rock spring in 1767 he was carried 
there by an escort of his Mohawk braves, the wound received at the 
battle of Lake George never having healed. The party descended the 
Mohawk as far as Schenectady in canoes. Thence they journeyed to 

' Sir William at this time lived on the north bank of the Mohawk, the site of the western sub- 
urbs of the city of Amsterdam. Lana Wallaslous, or Catherine Weisenberg [histories do not 
agree as to her name], was the mother of Sir John John.son, and two daughters, who married re- 
spectively Colonel Clausand Colonel Guy Johnson.— .See .Simms's " Border Wars of New York." 

Sir William's so-called marriage to Mollie Brandt was celebrated in true Indian style, but he 
never acknowledged her as his legal wife. 



393 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the home of the McDonalds, the first settlers at Ballston lake, where 
they remained over night. The following day he was carried on a 
litter to the springs, where he remained several days. So greatly was 
he benefited by drinking of the waters that on his return journey he 
was able to walk most of the way over the rugged trail that led to the 
Mohawk. The intelligence of the remarkable cure effected in the case 
of such a distinguished personage immediately caused the springs of 
Saratoga to come prominently before the public, and visitors began to 
journey to them in ever-increasing numbers thereafter. 

In 1783 General Philip Schuyler constructed a road from his country 
seat, at the mouth of Fish Creek, now Schuylerville, to the now famous 
High Rock spring. That summer he encamped near the spring for 
several weeks. The season following he brought his family and erected 
a rough frame house on the bluff to the south of the spring. He was 
thereafter a regular summer visitor up to the time of his death. 

The most distinguished of the early visitors to the spring was no less 
a personage than George Washington, who drank from the bubbling 
spring in 1783. He was then at his headquarters at N.ewburgh waiting 
for the conclusion of the negotiations which ended in a treaty of peace 
between Great Britain and her colonies. Time hung heavily on his 
hands and he determined, by way of diversion, to visit the mineral 
waters of which he had heard such marvelous reports. In company with 
Governor Clinton, General Alexander Hamilton and others he sailed to 
Albany, proceeded on horseback to Bemus Heights and inspected the 
scene of Burgoyne's surrender; thence continued on to Lake George, 
returning home by way of High Rock spring. From Lake George to 
the spring Washington and his party were escorted by General Schuyler, 
who entertained them at his summer home there. The distinguished 
party returned home by way of Ballston Spa, Ballston lake and Clifton 
Park, going thence down the Mohawk to Alban)'-, and from there to 
Newburgh by way of the Hudson. At Ballston they were entertained 
by General Gordon, who accompanied the party to Schenectady. A 
year or two after his visit General Washington made an endeavor to 
purchase the springs and the land surrounding them, but was not suc- 
cessful, for the Waltons and l^ivingstons had already secured perfect 
titles of the land. 

Joseph Bonaparte, ex-king of Naples and of Spain, also made an 
attempt to gain possession of the springs in 1824, while an exile, in- 
tending to establish a magnificent country seat there; but he was not 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 393 

successful. However, he continued a frecjuent visitor to the now most 
popular resort, and used to travel thence from his home in Borden- 
town, N. J., in state. 

High Rock spring is one of the most remarkable natural curiosities 
in the world. The rock through which the water flows at the surface 
is over twentj'-four feet in circumference at its base, and nearly four 
feet high above the surface. The water bubbles up through an aper- 
ture in the centre of the rock, remaining ten inches below the top, 
where the opening is about a foot in diameter. The walls of the rock 
are of nearly uniform thickness. The water originally overflowed the 
rock, which has been formed from the mineral deposits held in solution. 
A chemical analysis of the water of High Rock spring shows the follow- 
ing ingredients in one gallon of 231 cubic inches: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 390.137 

Chloride of potassium 8.497 

Bromide of sodium 0.731 

Iodide of sodium 0.086 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Sulphate of potassa 1.608 

Bicarbonate of baryta trace 

Bicarbonate of strontia trace 

Bicarbonate of lime 131.739 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 54.924 

Bicarbonate of soda . 34.888 

Bicarbonate of iron __. 1.478 

Phosphate of lime trace 

Alumina 1.223 

Silica 3.260 

Total - 628.039 

Carbonic acid gas 409.451 cub. in. 

Congress spring was discovered in 1792 by Governor John Taylor 
Oilman' of New Hampshire, while he was on a hunting expedition. 
Governor Gilman had been a delegate to the Continental Congress, and 
in his honor his friends at once named his discovery Congress spring, 
the name by which it has always been known. Its medicinal value 
was instantly apparent, and the demands upon it became very great. In 
a few years it was found that the supply of water was insufficient, so 

' Some writer gives the credit for the discovery to Nicholas Gilman, a younger brother of tlie 
^covernor. who had been assistant adjutant-general of General Horatio tiates. It is said he found 
the spring while visiting the scene of Burgoyne's surrender, but the date of such visit is not 
known. 



394 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

in 1804 Gideon Putnam, the owner, discovering indications of gas near 
the spring, at once sunk a wooden tube to confine the water and 
gas. Congress spring, and the splendid park surrounding it, known 
as Congress Park, for many years has been owned by a stock company. 
An analysis of the spring shows that one gallon of water contains; 

Grams. 

Chloride of sodium 400.444 

Chloride of potassium 8.049 

Bicarbonate of magnesia - 121. 757 

Bicarbonate of lime._ - - 143.399 

Bicarbonate of lithia. 4.761 

Bicarbonate of soda _ 10.775 

Bicarbonate of baryta 0.928 

Bicarbonate of iron _ _ 0. 340 

Bicarbonate of strontia trace 

Bicarbonate of sodium 8.569 

Iodide of sodium 0. 138 

Sulphate of potassa 0. 889 

Phosphate of soda 016 

Fluoride of calcium _ trace 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina- trace 

Total - : 700.895 

Carbonic acid gas 392.289 cub. in. 

The Columbian spring is located in Congress Park, near Congress 
spring. A gallon of water contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium. _ 267.00 

Bicarbonate of soda _ 15.40 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 46. 71 

Hydriodate of soda .. 2.06 

Carbonate of lime 68.00 

Carbonate of iron - 5.58 

Silex .. 2.05 

Hydro bromate of potash .slight trace 

Solid contents in a gallon 407.30 

Carbonic acid gas. 272.06 cub. in. 

Atmospheric air - 4.50 cub. in. 

Total - 276. 56 cub. in. 

The Excelsior spring is located in the eastern part of the village of 
Saratoga Springs. It is surrounded by an attractive park, called Ex- 
celsior Park, formerly known as the " Valley of the Ten Springs." 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 395 

The spring- was retubed in 1850 by H. H. Lawrence, tlie owner, and 
since that time its waters have become well-known to the public. A 
gallon of water contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 370. 642 

Carbonate of lime 77.000 

Carbonate of magnesia _ 33.333 

Carbonate of soda 15.000 

Silicate of potassa __ _ , 7. 000 

Carbonate of iron _ 3.315 

Sulphate of soda _ 1.331 

Silicate of soda __ 4. 000 

Iodide of soda 4. 235 

Bromide of potassa trace 

Sulphate of strontia trace 

Total _ 514.746 

Carbonic acid gas 350 cub. in. 

Atmosphere 3 cub. in. 

Total 353 cub. in. 

The Empire spring was not properly tubed until 1846, though it is 
considered one of the best springs in Saratoga. The water resembles 
that of Congress spring, and for a time it was known as the New Con- 
gress spring. A gallon of water contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 506.630 

Chloride of potassium _. _ _.. 4.392 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 43. 953 

Bicarbonate of lime 109.656 

Bicarbonate of lithia , _ 3. 080 

Bicarbonate of soda. 9.022 

Bicarbonate of baryta 0.075 

Bicarbonate of iron __. _ 0,793 

Bicarbonate of strontia _ trace 

Bromide of sodium _ _ 0.366 

Iodide of sodium _ 006 

Sulphate of potassa _ 2.769 

Phosphate of soda 0.023 

Silica...- 1.145 

Alumina . 0.418 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Biborate of soda trace 

Organic matter. trace 



Total 680.436 

Carbonic acid gas i 344.099 cub. in. 



396 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

The Union spring, located in Excelsior Park, was originally known 
as the Jackson spring. The spring was properly retubed in 1868, since 
which time there has been a fine flow of water. The water is remark- 
ably free from iron. A gallon contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium •_ 458.299 

Chloride of potassium- _ 8.733 

Bromide of sodium 1.307 

Iodide of sodium __ __ 0.039 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia-. 2.605 

Bicarbonate of soda 17.010 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 109. 685 

Bicarbonate of lime 96.703 

Bicarbonate of strontia.. trace 

Bicarbonate of baryta 1.703 

Bicarbonate of iron _ _ __ 0. 209 

Sulphate of potassa _ 1.818 

Phosphate of soda 0.026 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina 0.324 

Silica--- -.- - 2.663 

Organic matter - trace 



Total 701.174 

Carbonic acid gas 384.969 cub. in. 

The Ge3'ser, or "spouting spring," one of the most remarkable 
springs in the world, was discovered in 1870. It is located a little more 
than a mile southwest of Saratoga Springs, and is surrounded by Gey- 
ser Park, which includes Geyser lake. The water spouts from the sur- 
face in a stream high in the air. The spring rises from an orifice 
drilled in the rock, one hundred and thirty-two feet deep. This orifice 
is tubed to the depth of eighty-five feet, in order to carry the water 
through the soft slate formation, as the tremendous pressure and force 
of gas would dissolve the slate, thereby causing impurities in the water. 
A gallon contains: 

Grain.s. 

Chloride of sodium 562.080 

Chloride of potassium 24.634 

Bromide of sodium- - 2.212 

Iodide of sodium -- __ 0.248 

Fluoride of calcium - ^ trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia - - . 9 004 

Bicarbonate of soda -. 71.232 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 397 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 149.343 

Bicarbonate of lime 168.393 

Bicarbonate of strontia ._ 0.425 

Bicarbonate of baryta 2.014 

Bicarbonate of iron 0.979 

Sulphate of potassa. 9.318 

Phosphate of soda trace 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina trace 

Silica 0. 665 

Oaganic matter trace 

Total 991.546 

Carbonic acid gas 454.082 cub. in. 

The Champion spouting spring is located about a quarter of a mile 
southwest of the Geyser, and was discovered a year after the Geyser 
was found. A shaft was sunk three hundred feet in the ground when 
a column of water six and one half inches in diameter shot twenty-five 
or thirty feet in the air. The water is now partially confined, but when 
it is released it shoots seventy or eighty feet in the air. A gallon of 
water contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 703.339 

Chloride of potassium 40.446 

Bromide of sodium 3. 579 

Iodide of sodium ._ 0. 234 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bircarbonate of lithia 5.647 

Bicarbonate of soda 17.634 

Bicarbonate of magnesia -193.912 

Bicarbonate of lime 227.070 

Bicarbonate of strontia 0.088 

Bicarbonate of baryta .- _. 3. 083 

Bicarbonate of iron 0.647 

Sulphate of potassa 0.253 

Phosphate of soda- - 0.010 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina _ _-_ 0.458 

Silica 699 

Organic matter -- trace 

1,195.582 
Carbonic acid gas __- 465.458 cub. in. 

The Hathorn spring was discovered in 1869 by workmen employed 
in placing the foundation of the brick block containing the ball room of 



398 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Congress Hall. It is named in honor of Hon. Henry H. Hathorn, who 
first developed the spring and rebuilt Congress Hall hotel. A gallon 
of water contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium .509.968 

Chloride of potassium _ __ 9. 597 

Bromide of sodium 1.534 

Iodide of sodium 0. 198 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia 11.447 

Bicarbonate of soda 4. 388 

Bicarbonate of magnesia _176.463 

Bicarbonate of lime 170.646 

Bicarbonate of strontia trace 

Bicarbonate of baryta 1.787 

Bicarbonate of iron _ __ 1.138 

Sulphate of potassa _ _ none 

Phosphate of soda 0. 006 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina __ 0.131 

Silica - - - 1 . 260 

Organic matter trace 

888.403 
Carbonic acid gas 375.741 cub. in. 

The Vichy spouting spring, located near the Geyser, was discovered 
in 1872 by drilling in the solid rock one hundred and eighty feet. It 
contains more soda and less salt than any other Saratoga water, being 
very similar to the Vichy waters of France. A gallon contains; 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 128.689 

Chloride of potassium. ._ 14.113 

Bromide of sodium 0. 990 

Iodide of sodium trace 

Fluoride of calcium ._ - trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia 1.760 

Bicarbonate of soda - 82.873 

Bicarbonate of magnesia _ 41.503 

Bicarbonate of lime 95.522 

Bicarbonate of strontia trace 

Bicarbonate of baryta .-_ _-_ 0. 593 

Bicarbonate of iron - _ 0.052 

Sulphate of potassa _ trace 

Phosphate of soda trace 

Biborate of soda trace 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 399 

Alumina 0.473 

Silica 0.758 

Organic matter trace 

Carbonic acid gas 883.071 cub. in. 

The Carlsbad spring is located about two and a half miles southwest 
of Saratoga Springs, and is one of the group of the spouting springs at 
The Geysers Analysis of the water shows the following ingredients 
in one gallon : 

Grains. 

Sodium chloride. - - 244.925 

Potassium chloride 7. 092 

Sodium bromide ,. 1.063 

Sodium iodide .-. _. 1.430 

Bicarbonate of sodium 47.890 

Bicarbonate of lithium 1.627 

Bicarbonate of magnesium 58.896 

Bicarbonate of calcium _ 115. 283 

Bicarbonate of strontium trace 

Bicarbonate of barium .051 

Bicarbonate of iron .427 

Sodium phosphate trace 

Alumina trace 

Silica __ .571 

Total 479.255 

Carbonic acid gas 408.632 inches. 

The Star spring was not fully developed until 1863. It was formerly 
known as the President and the Iodine. A gallon contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 378.962 

Chloride of potassium 9.229 

Bromide of sodium __ 55. 650 

Iodide of sodium _. 20.000 

Sulphate of potassa _ 5.400 

Bicarbonate of lime 124.459 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 61.912 

Bicarbonate of soda... 12.662 

Bicarbonate of iron 1.213 

Silica 1.283 

Phosphate of lime trace 

Total 6 1 5. 685 

Carbonic acid gas 407.55 cub. in. 

The Kissingen spring, formerly known as the Hyperion spouting 



400 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

spring-, has sprung into public favor in recent j-ears. A gallon con- 
tains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 338.509 

Chloride of potassium ._ '.^ 16. 980 

Bromide of sodium 1.800 

Iodide of sodium 042 

Fluoride of calcium. _ trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia_ 5.129 

Bicarbonate of soda 67.617 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 70.470 

Bicarbonate of lime 140.260 

Bicarbonate of strontia trace 

Bicarbonate of baryta 0. 992 

Bicarbonate of iron 1.557 

Sulphate of potassa trace 

Alumina trace 

Silica 1.280 

Total 644.627 

Carbonic acid gas 361.5 cub. in. 

The Royal spring is located on the corner of Lake avenue and Henry 
street, opposite the Fitchburg railroad station, and the great, and ap- 
parently inexhaustible, supply was tapped on the 25th of September, 
1886, after months of patient drilling. It is 603 feet in depth. Abel 
Putnam, jr., is president of the Royal Spring company. Analysis of a 
gallon shows : 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 265. 5384 

Chloride of potassuim. 8.8244 

Bromide of sodium 0. 8879 

Iodide of sodium.. 0.0124 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia 2.2317 

Bicarbonate of soda 6.6133 

Bicarbonate of ammonia 1.3551 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 81. 8688 

Bicarbonate of lime 146. 2355 

Bicarbonate of iron 1.2275 

Sulphate of potassa 3.1381 

Phosph ate of soda trace 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina 0.0548 

Silica -. 0.8223 

Organic matter trace 



Total 518.2602 

Carbonic acid gas 500.8579 cub. in. 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 401 

The Putnam spring was discovered in March, 1888, and is 230 feet 
deep. The water is a strong cathartic. One gallon contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of .sodium _ 269.9205 

Chloride of potassium _._ 11.9095 

Bromide of sodium -- - 0.6778 

Iodide of sodium 0.1543 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of ammonium 2.0050 

Bicarbonate of lithia 2. .3199 

Bicarbonate of soda 18,7644 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 89.1967 

Bicarbonate of lime 129. 4174 

Bicarbon ate of strontia trace 

Bicarbonate of barj'ta trace 

Bicarbonate of iron 1.2173 

Bicarbonate of manganese 0.4844 

Sulphate of potassa 0.4434 

Biborate of .soda __ trace 

Alumina 0.0467 

Silica 1.0264 



Total 518.1833 

Carbonic acid gas 417.0776 cub. in. 

The Lincoln spring, four huudred and twenty-five feet in depth, is 
located on South Broadway, one mile from Convention hall. Analysis 
shows these ingredients: 

Grains. 

Sodium chloride 315.2088 

Potassium chloride 22. 9.500 

Sodium bromide 10.7404 

Sodium iodide- 2338 

Calcmm (luoride - ._ traces 

Potassium nitrate _ 1053 

Ammonium bicarbonate _ 4109 

Sodium bicarbonate _ 32.8614 

Lithium bicarbonate. 2.7678 

Magnesium bicarbonate 108. 5719 

Bicarbonate of lime 176.2835 

Bicarbonate of strontium - traces 

Bicarbonate of barium 1.4008 

Bicarbonate of iron .6440 

Bicarbonate of manganese 1 009 

Potassium sulphate _ traces 

Biborate of sodium traces 

Sodium phosphate - 0914 

2G 



403 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Alumina _ 0348 

Silica 1.9495 

Total 674.3552 

Carbonic acid gas ._ 416 cub. in. 

The Victoria spring was discovered in May, 1892, at a depth of three 
hundred and four feet. It is situated at the Geysers, two miles south 
of Saratoga Springs. An analysis of a gallon shows: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 186.200 

Chloride of potassium - 16. 150 

Bromide of sodium 3.599 

Iodide of sodium _ . 056 

Fluoride of calcium _ trace 

Nitrate of potassium .031 

Bicarbonate of ammonium . 151 

Bicarbonate of lithium 1. 633 

Bicarbonate of sodium _ 33. 830 

Bicarbonate of magnesium- 79.870 

Bicarbonate of lime -.112. 500 

Bicarbonate of strontium trace 

Bicarbonate of barium.. 003 

Bicarbonate of iron . 324 

Bicarbonate of manganese .004 

Sulphate of potassium .037 

Biborate of sodium - trace 

Phosphate of sodium... 016 

Alumina 436 

Silica .513 

Organic matter trace 

Albuminoid ammonia. none 

Total 424.331 

Carbonic acid gas 368.431 cub. in. 

The Washington spring is over si.xty years old. It is heavily im- 
pregnated with iron, as the following analysis shows: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 182. 735 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 65.978 

Bicarbonate of lime 84.096 

Bicarbonate of soda 8.474 

Bicarbonate of iron 5.059 

Chloride of calcium 208 

Chloride of magnesium 680 

Sulphate of magnesia 051 

Iodide of sodium 2.343 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 4(« 

Bromide of potassium _ _ 474 

Silicic acid 1.500 

Alumina -- - trace 

Grains.... 351. 980 

Carbonic acid gas ._ 363.77 cub. in. 

The Magnetic spring was developed by boring in 1873. It is fiftj' 
feet deep. The magnetic character of the water was discovered almost 
simultaneoush- with the striking of the vein. Analysis of the spring 
shows : 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium — 69.031 

Chloride of potassium... .-_ 8.031 

Bromide of sodium. .. 058 

Bicarbonate of lilhia 305 

Bicarbonate of soda 16.075 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 35. 073 

Bicarbonate of lime. 86,740 

Bicarbonate of baryta trace 

Bicarbonate of iron .030 

Sulphate of potassa trace 

Alumina 371 

Silica .367 

Total solid contents .-306.049 

Carbonic acid gas -.308.050 cub. in. 

The Peerless spring, though located within ten feet of the Magnetic, 
is totally dissimilar. It is 150 feet deep. One gallon of its water con- 
tains: 

Grain.s. 

Chloride of sodium 191.4119 

Chloride of potassium 10.42.59 

Bromide of sodium 1.2109 

Iodide of sodium 0.0039 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia 1.3839 

Bicarbonate of soda 25.3384 

Bicarbonate of ammonia 0.8133 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 55.5101 

Bicarbonate of lime 130. 3206 

Bicarbonate of iron 1.039] 

Sulphate of potassa 1.3431 

Phosphate of soda : trace 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina 0.1473 



404 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Silica 0.9914 

Organic matter trace 

Total 419.6257 

Carbonic acid gas 502.9154 cub. in. 

Among the other springs at Saratoga Springs are the PaviHon spring, 
the Red spring (discovered soon after the Revolutionary war), the 
Hamilton spring, the Saratoga "A" spring, the Eureka spring, the 
United States spring, Elmwood spring, the Triton "spouter," the 
Seltzer spring, the Crystal spring, and the Favorite spring, all having 
their peculiar values respectively, and each differing in some respect 
from the others. The Magnetic spring is equipped with conveniences 
for bathing. 

In addition to these springs, carbonic acid gas, which escapes from 
the immense reservoirs beneath the earth's surface by means of drilled 
wells, properly tubed, is now imprisoned in strong metallic receivers, 
after condensation by artificial means, and shipped to all parts of the 
United States for use in charging soda fountains and for other pur- 
poses. This work has recently developed into a considerable indus- 
try, giving employment to a number of persons. 

The mineral springs of Ballston Spa, while not so numerous as 
those of Saratoga Springs and not so well advertised, nevertheless 
still stand as among the most valuable, from a medicinal standpoint, 
in the world. There was a time when the prestige which now h;is 
become one of the attributes of Saratoga belonged to Ballston Spa; 
but the energy and enterprise of the inhabitants of the now most 
celebrated of American vSpas won from Ballston the laurel, and the 
rivals in the race changed places. But the springs of the lesser place 
remain as efficacious as ever, as thousands of persons in various parts 
of the country attest. 

Early in the summer of 1771 several surveyors employed by the 
commissioners appointed to survey and partition amongst its thirteen 
proprietors the great patent of Kayadrossera were engaged in running 
the north line of the " Five Mile Square," now the line between the 
towns of Milton and Ballston. In the inuldle of the day several mem- 
bers of this corps, becoming hot and thirsty, went down to the banks 
of the creek now known as Gordon creek, and there they found a min- 
eral spring.' The discovery of this spring, the waters of which were 

* There appears to be a doubt as to whether this was the present public spring, or the old 
spring, now quiescent, which was located near the junction of liallston avenue and Charlton 
street. 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 405 

considered most palatable, soon became generally known in that region, 
and visitors began to visit the place from all directions. But it was 
not until three or four years after the close of the Revolution that per- 
manent settlements or improvements were made at or near the spring. 
Travelers had come and gone in the meantime, but the unsettled con- 
dition of the country had rendered this community somewhat uninvit- 
ing as a place of permanent residence. In 1787 Benajah Douglas, 
father of the Hon. Stephen A. Douglas, removed to Ballston Springs, 
as the place was then known. He had lived in the town of Stephen- 
town, Rensselaer county — then considered to be in Massachusetts. 
Douglas's father, Asa Douglas, had been the proprietor of a tavern, 
and the pioneer of Ballston Springs determined to make the best of the 
experience he had had while with his father. Thus it came that in 
1787 he erected a commodious log tavern near the public spring, on a 
farm of one hundred acres which he had purchased. He also erected 
a smaller house near by for the accommodation of visitors who brought 
their own meals. Soon after Douglas erected his tavern Micajah 
Benedict opened another hostelry about a mile further south, near 
what is now known as the V Corners. Others began to come to the 
springs and built, and by the end of seven or eight years the summer 
travel to the famous spring had become so great that it was found 
necessary to furnish greatly increased accommodations for the public. 
In 1794 Mr. Merrill put up a frame house for the entertainment of 
guests, and in that year all the houses in the village, public and private, 
were filled to overflowing. People came from New York, Philadelphia, 
Boston, and even from the West Indies. For many years thereafter 
the springs of Ballston Spa were the most famous in the country, and 
were visited every season by people of wealth and culture residing in 
all parts of the world. But the development of Saratoga Springs and 
the temporary loss, by natural or artificial means, of the springs at 
Ballston, gave Saratoga an advantage and Ballston a set-back which 
the former has ever since enjoyed and from which the latter has never 
recovered. 

In the fall of 1 805 a company of speculators began to bore for oil in 
the northeastern part of the village, prospectors having assured them 
that it could be found. The work was completed the following year, 
but instead of the petroleum they expected to find they struck a fine 
stream of mineral water at a depth of five hundred and fifty-two feet. 
This proved to be the same water which, in previous years, had made 



406 OUR COU.NTV AND ITS PEOPLK. 

Ballston Spa famous,' but the surface flow of which had mainly dis- 
appeared. The drilling of the well was continued until a depth of six 
hundred and fifty-two feet had been reached, but the qualit)' of the 
water remained the same. Thi.s spring is known as the Artesian Lithia 
spring. An analysis shows the presence of the following ingredients 
in a United States gallon of 231 cubic inches: 

Grains, 

Chloride of sodium 750.030 

Chloride of potassium _ 33.276 

Bromide of sodium. _ 3.643 

Iodide of sodium 0.124 

Fluoride of calcium ._ trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia • 7. 750 

Bicarbonate of soda 11.928 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 180.602 

Bicarbonate of lime __ 238.156 

Bicarbonate of strontia _ 8C7 

Bicarbonate of baryta _ 3.881 

Bicarbonate of iron. 1.581 

Sulphate of potassa 0.520 

Phosphate of soda _ 0.050 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina 0.077 

Silica .- 0.761 

Organic matter trace 

Total 1,233.246-^ 

Carbonic acid gas 426.114 cub. in. 

' "The mineral springs from which this village derives its importance and celebrity were dis- 
covered in lTf)T. [Kxactlya quarter of a century before Congress spring in Saratoga was dis- 
covered by Governor John Taylor (iilman of N'ew Hampshire. — Kd.] In 177"^ Mr. Douglass erect- 
ed a small log-house here for the accommodation of visitors. During the Revolutionary war 
settlements in this part of the country were suspended, but about I'i'Mi Mr. Douglass enlarged his 
accommodations. In 1804 Nicholas Low, Esq., raised the well-known Sans Souci hotel. In 18()7. 
several other springs, and in 1817, four springs of diflferent qualities, were found near the great 
manufactory built by Mr. Low. 

" The spring in the rear of the Sans Souci, and that in the rear of the village hotel, and the 
original spring at the west of the village [the old iron spring] contain, as essential ingredients, 
the carbonates of soda, of lime, iron and magnesia; the tonic (jualities of the iron, and the spark- 
ling and enlivening intluencc of the Jixed air thai they possess in an extraordinary degree, have 
a wonderful etTect upon enervated, bilitius, and debilitated constitutions. 

" The use of the mineral waters here and at Saratoga is especially beneficial in all those affec- 
tions termed bilious and dyspeptic, in calculous and nephritic complaints, in chronic rheumatism, 
gout, in ulcers and cutaneous disorders, .scrofula, in mercurial diseases and strumous affections, 
in recent dropsy, paralysis, chlorosis, etc." — Historical Collections, by John W. Barber and Henry 
Howe, 18-n. 

' It will be .seen that this analysis shows that the water of this spring contains a greater per- 
centage of mineral ingredients c)f a medicinal nature than is to be found in the water of any of 
the springs at Saratoga Springs. The springs at Ballston generally are much richer in minerals 
than those of Saratoga. 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 407 

The Franklin spring,' located in the eastern part of the village, was 
drilled in 18G8-G9. When a depth of seventy-five feet had been reached 
the water rushed forth with frightful velocity, throwing it between 
fifty and sixty feet in the air, and sustaining that height for six minutes. 
Since that time the supply has been exhaustless. The water is said 
to be a specific remedy for colds, rheumatism, influenza, gout, etc. A 
gallon contains: 

Grams. 

Chloride of sodium 659. 344 

Chloride of potassium 33.930 

Bromide of sodium. _ ._ _. ., 4.665 

Iodide of sodium. 0.235 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of lithia _. 6. 777 

Bicarbonate of soda 94. 004 

Bicarbonate of magnesia.. .177.808 

Bicarbonate of lime _ .202.232 

Bicarbonate of strontia 002 

Bicarbonate of baryta ._ 1.231 

Bicarbonate of iron 1. 609 

Sulphate of potassa 0. 702 

Phosphate of soda 0. 001 

Biborate of soda trace 

Alumina 0.263 

Silica 0.735 

Organic matter _ _ trace 

Total -. 1,184.368 

Carbonic acid gas 460.066 cub. in. 

The Washington Lithia spring' is situated near the central part of 
the village. It was drilled to a depth of six hundred and twelve feet 
in 18G8. The following analysis of a gallon was made before the work 
of drilling was finished and while fresh water intruded: 

drains. 

Chloride of sodium 645.481 

Chloride of ])otassium. 9.232 

Bromide of sodium 2. 368 

Iodide of sodium... 0.925 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bircarbonate of lithia 10. 514 

Bicarbonate of soda 34. 400 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 158. 348 

Bicarbonate of lime 178.484 

'Now known also as Hill's spring. 
'This spring was abandoned several years ago, and its water now runs to waste. 



408 OUR COUNTV AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Bicarbonate of strontia - 0. 189 

Bicarbonate of baryta 4.739 

Bicarbonate of iron 2.296 

Sulphate of potassa none 

Pliosphale of soda 0.003 

Bicarbonate of soda trace 

Alumina _ 0..")95 

Silica 1.026 

Organic matter _ trace 

Total _ 1,047.700 

Carbonic acid gas 338.345 cub. in. 

The Sans Souci spouting spring was drilled in 1870 in the rear of the 
Sans Souci hotel, the proprietor desiring to furnish fresh mineral water 
to his guests. The drill struck water at a depth of six hundred and 
ninety feet. It is a strong cathartic. A gallon contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of .sodium. _ 572.306 

Chloride of potassium 5.860 

Bromide of sodium .. 1.055 

Iodide of sodium 0.620 

Bicarbonate of soda 4.7.57 

Bicarbonate of lithia 11.793 

Phosphate of lime _ 3. 175 

Bicarbonate of lime 193.179 

Bicarbonate of magnesia 181. 106 

Bicarbonate of iron 9.239 

Alumina trace 

Silica 1.140 

Bicarbonate of baryta 1.790 

Bicarbonate of strontia - trace 

Chloride of rubidium _ trace 

Total. 986.345 

Carbonic acid gas 538.074 cut), in. 

The public spring, commonly known as " the old iron spring," located 
in the western part of the village, at the head of Front street and within 
forty feet of Gordon Creek, is six hundred and forty-seven feet in depth 
and was drilled in 1874. It is owned by the village and its waters are 
free to all. Analysis shows the constituents of one gallon of this water 
to be: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium 98.83 

Hydriodate of soda (iodine) 18.057 

Carbonate of iron 26.51 



THE MINERAL SPRINGS. 409 

Sulphate of soda..- _ 24.05 

Manganese 21.70 

Bicarbonate of lithia . _ 9. 33 

Silex and alumina __ '('.25 

Total solid contents 210.727 

Carbonic acid gas _ .310.71 cub. in. 

Atmospheric air 7.08 cub. in. 

Gaseous contents 328.78 cub. in. 

In the rear of the bag mill owned by Hon. George West is a spring 
of considerable strength, which is usually free of access to the public, 
though the private property of Mr. West. It is commonly known as 
West's spring. Each gallon of water contains: 

Grains. 

Chloride of sodium. __ .663.801 

Chloride of potassium 18.507 

Bromide of sodium _ - 3.828 

Iodide of sodium _ -- .218 

Fluoride of calcium trace 

Bicarbonate of lithium _ 3.261 

Bicarbonate of sodium 4.394 

Bicarbonate of ammonia 10.396 

Bicarbonate of magnesium 173.200 

Bicarbonate of lime 240.047 

Bicarbonate of barium 3. 669 

Bicarbonate of strontium trace 

Bicarbonate of iron 1.203 

Bicarbonate of manganese 017 

Sulphate of potassium trace 

Phosphate of sodium -. .034 

Borate of sodium _ 

Nitrate of potassium . 092 

Nitrite of potassium none 

Alumina _ 209 

Silica -.- 3.460 

Organic matter trace 

Albuminoid amnnmia _ .. none 

Total 1,126.390 

Carbonic acid gas .436.440 cub. in. 

The White Sulphur spring, located near the southeastern point of 
Saratoga lake, is justly celebrated. One gallon, or 237 cubic inches of 
water, contains 10.739 cubic inches of gas, havmg the proportions of 

Nitrogen gas 4.680 

Oxygen gas - 0.498 

Carbonic acid 11.290 

Hydro-sulphuric acid - 0.271 



410 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Fifty thousand grains of this water contains 115.735 grains of saline matter con- 
sisting of 

Sulphate of lime 67.168 

Sulphate of magnesia _ _ 30.364 

Chloride of magnesium 0.859 

Carbonate of lime .-. 6.060 

Organic matter (dried at 213" F.) 3.740 

Carbonic acid 4.584 

Silicates (sihca, 1.34; potash, 0.18). 



CHAPTER XVTI. 

History of the Bench and Bar of Saratoga County — The Early Courts of the 
County and the Changes in Them Wrought by the Revised Constitutions — First 
Sessions of the Original Courts— Building of the First Court House at Court House 
Hill— Destroyed by Fire— The First Court House at Ballston Spa— The Modern 
Structure — Leadmg Lawyers of the Early Days of the Century — Men in the Profes- 
sion Who Have Become Eminent. 

REVISED IIY HON. JOHN K. I'HTNAM. 

At the time of the organization of the count}- of Saratoga in 1791, 
the courts of the State were as follows: 

The Court of Errors, consisting of the president of the Senate, the 
senators, the chancellor, and the judges of the Supreme Court. The 
Court of Errors had sole power to try impeachments, and a general 
appellate jurisdiction of appeal from the vSupreme Court and Court of 
Chancery. 

The Court of Chancery, which had exclusive jurisdiction in equity 
causes. 

The Supreme Court of Judicature, consisting of a chief justice and 
three puisne judges, which sat to hear appeals from the lower courts. 

The Circuit Court, held by one of the judges of the Supreme Court 
in each county at least once every year, having jurisdiction over all 
issues of law and fact. 

A Court of Common Pleas in every count\% consisting of a first judge 
and at least three justices, having jurisdiction over all actions arising 
within the county where the matter in demand exceeded jQri. 

The Court of Oyer and Terminer, for the trial of criminal catises, 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 411 

presided over by a Circuit judge and two or more of the judges and 
assistant judges of the Court of Common Pleas. 

The Court of General Sessions, a court for tlie trial of minor criminal 
causes, held by any three justices of the peace in the county, and of 
which a judge of Common Pleas must always be a member. 

Attorneys of the degree of counselors were permitted to practice in 
any court in the State. Attorneys of the Supreme Court could appear 
in that court, in the Circuit Court and Court of Oyer and Terminer. 
Practitioners in the courts of Common Pleas or General Sessions were 
required to be specially admitted to practice in those counties in which 
such courts were held. 

Upon the organization of the county of vSaratoga Governor Clinton 
immediately appointed John Thompson of Stillwater first judge; James 
Gordon and Beriah Palmer of Ballston, Jacobus Van Schoonhoven of 
Half moon and Sidney Berry of Saratoga, judges. The latter was also 
appointed surrogate, Jacob Fort, jr., of Halfmoon was appointed sheriff, 
and Dirck Swart of Stillwater clerk. 

The first session of the Court of Common Pleas met May 10, 1791, at 
the residence of Samuel Clark, justice of the peace, in that part of 
Stillwater now included in Malta. First Judge Thompson, Judges 
Gordon, Palmer, Van Schoonhoven and Berry, with John Varnam, 
Epenetus White and Eliphalet Kellogg, associate judges, presided. 
Maj. Ezra Buell of Stillwater, a veteran of the Revolution, was ap- 
pointed court crier, and these attorneys were admitted to practice: 
Cornelius Vandenburgh, Guert Van Schoonhoven, Peter E. Elmendorf, 
Myndert Van Everen, jr., John V. Henry, John D. Dickinson, Gam- 
aliel Wendall, Harmonis H. Wendall, John W. Yates, Nicholas Fonda, 
Abraham Hun, Peter I). \'an Dyck, John Woodworth, Moss Kent, 
John Lovett and Joseph C. Yates.' 

On the same date the first Court of General Sessions met at the same 
place, Judge Gordon presiding, with John Varnam, Epenetus White, 
Eliphalet Kellogg, Richard Davis, jr., Douw I. Fonda, Elias Palmer, 
Nathaniel Douglas, John Ball and John Bradstreet, justices of the 
peace, as associates, 'i'his court swore the first grand jury in the 
county, which consisted of Richard Davis, jr., Joshua Taylor, John 
Donald. Henry Davis, Hezekiah Ketchum, Seth C. Baldwin, Ezra 

' Joseph C Vates was born in Schenectady November 9, 17fi8; became mayor of that city in 
1798; State senator in 1805; judge of the Supreme court in 1808; governor of the .State of New 
York in 18^. He died March 10, 18;jr. 



412 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Flallibart, John Wood, Samuel Wood, Edy Baker, Elisha Andrews, 
Gideon More, Abraham Livingston and John Bleecker.' 

The first Circuit Court and Oyer and Terminer was held at the liouse 
of Jedediah Rogers in Halfmoon, now Clifton Park village, July 7, 
1791. Chief Justice Robert Yates presided, assisted by all the judges 
of the Court of Common Pleas and Justices of the Peace Epenetus 
White and Adrian Hagerman. 

The various courts of Saratoga county were held at private res- 
idences until the completion of the first county court house, at Court 
House Hill, in the town of Ballston, in 179G.' The first court to hold a 
session there was the May, 1796, term of the Court of Common Pleas 
and Sessions. The first Circuit Court and Oyer and Terminer held 
there met in 1799, and was presided over b)'' Judge John Lansing, 
afterwards the chancellor whose sudden disappearance a few years 
later forever remained a mystery. 

In 1809 Judge John Thompson, having attained the age of sixty 
years, was rendered ineligible for further service by the constitution. 
Salmon Child of Greenfield was appointed to succeed him by Governor 
Tompkins, and held office until 1818. Up to the latter year there was 
no limit to the number of judges, but in 1818 the State Legislature 
limited the number to a first judge and four associate judges. 

The first county building at Court House Hill, around which a thriv- 
ing village had begun to develop, was destroyed by fire in 1816. The 
event was described as follows by the Independent American of March 
.27, 1810, published in Ballston Spa: 

On Sunday morning last at one o'clock a fire broke out in the northwest corner of 
the court house in the town of Ballston which had so progressed before it was dis- 
covered that all attempts at quelling it proved abortive. The air was very still, 
otherwise the contiguous buildings must have .shared the same fate. One of the 
prisoners, named George Billings, who was chained to the floor, was unfortunately 
consumed. Four prisoners, Shearer, Davis, (colored). Cole and Drapoo made their 
escape. Two of them have since been re-taken, to wit: Shearer and Davis. A 
court of inquiry was instituted in this village on Monday, and from their examination 
on the subject of the fire did not hesitate to give it as their opinion that the fire was 
communicated to the building by one or more of the prisoners. 

Immediately after the destruction of the first court house, the citizens 
of Ballston Spa held a mass meeting, at which it was resolved to ask 

' For much of the information in this chapter rehitive to the courts of the county the author 
is indebted to linos R. Mann's History of the Bench and liar of Saratoga C'ounty. 

2 See Chapter Vlll. 



THE BENCH AND BAR, 413 

the judges of Common Pleas to order that the courts of the county 
should be held for the time being in the academy building which stood 
upon what is now Science street in that village, the free use of which 
was tendered the county. Judge Child and his associates accepted the 
tender. May 1-4, 1817, the Legislature passed an act designating Elisha 
Powell and James Merrill of Milton, Isaac Gere of Galway, John Gibson 
of Ballston and Gilbert Waring of Saratoga a commission to re-locate 
the county seat and to build a court house and jail at an expense of ten 
thousand dollars. Nicholas Low of New York gave the county the 
title to the land on which the court house and county clerk's office now 
stand, and the commission decided upon this site as the best for the 
new buildings. The new brick court house was built by Stephen S. 
Seaman, and was completed in time for the Circuit Court held in the 
spring of 1819. 

In the meantime the Legislature of ISIS had passed an act by which 
the then judges of the Courts of Common Pleas and General Sessions 
were set aside and their tenure of office declared terminated. June IG, 
1818, Governor De Witt Clinton, by direction of the Council of Appoint- 
ment, commissioned James Thompson of Milton to be first judge, and 
Salmon Child of Greenfield, Abraham Moe of Halfmoon, James McCrea 
of Ballston and John Prior of Greenfield to be judges in the Courts of 
Common Pleas and General Sessions and ex-officio members of the 
Court of Oyer and Terminer. 

Two years before this change, while the courts were being held in 
the old academy building in Ballston Spa, the Court of Oyer and Term- 
iner held in vSeptember, 1816, was called upon to dispose of the first 
murder trial in the history of the county. The presiding judge was 
Smith Thompson, the noted jurist." The accused was Daniel Northrup 
of Galway, who was charged with having murdered, in the spring of 
1816, a farmer named Cornelius Allen, who resided in the southern 
part of that town. Northrup, a man of low mental order, lived in the 
family of Allen. At the breakfast table one morning angry words 
passed between the two men, and Northrup, grasping a knife, reached 
across the table and stabbed Allen, inflicting mortal wounds. At his 
trial he was defended by Samuel Cook and John W. Taylor, while the 
people were represented by Attorney-General Thomas J. Oakley and 

* Judge Smith Thompson was chief justice of the Supreme Court of New York from J814 to 
1818; secretary of the navy from 1818 to 1823, and associate justice of the United States Supreme 
Court from 183:} till bis death in 1813. 



414 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

James Thompson. The defense was insanit_v, but the accused was 
convicted and sentenced to be hanged. Judge Smith Thompson united 
with many others in a petition for a pardon, and this the Legislature 
granted. Northrup was soon afterward adjudged a lunatic and con- 
fined in a private asylum until his death in 1838. 

The first court in the county whose sentence of death in a murder 
case was fulfilled was the May, 1830, term of the Circuit Court and 
Oyer and Terminer. The court consisted of Judge Jonas Piatt, First 
Judge James Thompson and Judges Salmon Child, James McCrea and 
John Prior. The prisoner was Benjamin Bennett, who was accused of 
killing Seth Haskins in Corinth September 4, 1819. Richard M. Liv- 
ingston appeared for the people, and Zebulon R. Shipherd of Green- 
wich for the defense. Bennett was convicted and sentenced to be 
hanged July 31, 1830. Though he gave evidence of insanity during 
and after his trial, he nevertheless was hanged, this service being per- 
formed in person by General Dunning of Dunning Street, then sherifif. 

The March term, in 18-17, was the last held under the old constitu- 
tion. The old courts were superseded by the new ones established, 
.which were to go into effect July 1, 1847. Under the provisions of the 
new constitution the Legislature passed an act May 13, 1817, providing 
for the several courts. These were: 

The Court of Impeachment, consisting of the president of the Senate, 
State Senate and judges of the Court of Appeals. 

The Court of Appeals, consisting of four'judges to be elected by the 
people and four to be selected from the judges of the Supreme Court. 

The Supreme and Circuit Courts, to be held by the thirty-three 
justices of the Supreme Court. 

The County Court, to beheld by the county judge. 

The Court of Oyer and Terminer, to be held at the times appointed 
for holding Circuits, by a justice of the .Supreme Court, with the 
county judge and two justices of the peace elected by the people to 
hold Courts of Sessions. 

The Courts of Sessions, to be held at the same times designated for 
holding County Ctjurts, by the county judge and justices of the 
sessions. 

At the special election held June 7, 1847, Hon. Augustus Bockes of 
Saratoga Springs was chosen county judge and John Lawrence district 
attorney. 'I'he first County Court and Court of vSessions was held Sep- 
tember 20 of that year, with Justices William T. Seymour and Abel A. 
Kellogg assisting in the latter. 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 415. 

By the constitution of 1894, which went into effect January 1, 1895, 
the Supreme Court was continued with general jurisdiction in law and 
equity. Provision was made for an Appellate Division of the Supreme 
Court, consisting of seven justices in the first department, and five in 
each of the other three departments into which the State was divided, 
to be designated bj' the governor. Provision was also made for special 
courts in New York, Brooklyn and Buffalo. Circuit Courts and Courts 
of Oyer and Terminer were abolished after December 31, 1895, and 
their jurisdiction vested in the Supreme Court. The Court of Appeals 
was continued, but its jurisdiction limited to the review of questions of 
law. The County Courts and Surrogate's Courts were also continued. 
The Court for the Trial of Impeachments was defined as being com- 
posed of the president of the Senate, the senators or the major part of 
them, and the judges of the Court of Appeals, or the major part of 
them. Justices of the peace. Courts of Special Sessions and inferior 
local courts were not materially changed. 

For several years prior to 1890 the old court house was generally 
looked upon as inconvenient and otherwise ill}' adapted to the sessions 
of the various courts. The agitation in favor of a new building cul- 
minated in 1889, when the board of supervisors made an appropriation 
of $4:(),000 for the purpose of constructing a new edifice. September 
10 of that year the work of razing the old building was begun, and on 
October 21, 1889, the corner stone of the new building was laid. Stephen 
C. iMedbery, county treasurer, and Abijah Comstock, then supervisor 
of the town of Milton, were leaders in the movement for the new build- 
ing. M. F. Cummings of Troy was the architect of the structure, John 
M. Yandenburgh of Ballston was the contractor for the mason work, 
Wentze & Co. were the carpenters, and Charles A. Crossley supplied 
the steam heating plant. The total cost of the building, including the 
jail and jailer's residence, was about $35,000. The committee in charge 
of the work comprised Abijah Comstock, A. W. Shepherd, Robert O. 
Davis, George C. Yalentine and Hector A. McRae. 

The new edifice was completed in the spring of 1890, and on Mon- 
day, April 31, of that year, the dedication took place. Hon. John R. 
Putnam, justice of the Supreme Court, presided over the exercises, 
which were of a most interesting character. On the bench were seated 
also Hon. Augustus Bockes, Hon. Judson S. Landon and HtJn. J. W. 
Houghton. Prayer was offered by Rev. A. R. Olney, pastor of the 
Presbyterian church at Ballston Spa, following which A. W. Shepherd 



416 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of Saratoga .Springs delivered the address of presentation. Judge 
Houghton made the address of welcome, a^ the conclusion of which 
Counselor Edwin Quackenbush of Ballston Spa delivered a most elo- 
quent dedicatory address. Remarks were also made by the judges 
present, leading members of the bar and others. The concluding ad- 
dress was delivered by Rev. Charles Pelletreau, rector of Christ Protes- 
tant Episcopal church of Ballston Spa. The exercises were inter- 
spersed with music, including a dedication hymn composed for the occa- 
sion. 

EMINENT JUDGES AND LAWYERS OF THE COUNTY. 

The county of Saratoga, since its organization in 1791, has been the 
birthplace or adopted home of some of the most distinguished lawyers 
of the State. At one period it contained a galaxy of eminent judges 
and members of the bar and was a most important legal centre. At 
the time referred to Reuben Hyde Walworth lived and held the terms 
of the Court of Chancery here. Before him appeared from time to 
time such men as Daniel Webster, Millard Filmore, Charles O'Connor, 
Daniel Lord, Samuel Stevens, and others, the most eminent practition- 
ers of the nation. The Court of Errors frequently was in session at 
Saratoga Springs. There were also, then, living in the county. Judges 
Esek Cowen and John Willard, Nicholas Hall, William A. Beach, John 
K. Porter, Augustus Bockes, Stephen P. Nash, Judiah Ellsworth, 
George G. Scott, the eminent reporter Oliver K. Barbour, and other 
well known and distinguished advocates. 

To the bench the county has had the honor of sending erudite judges; 
while many of its practitioners before the bar have been recognized as 
among the most eloquent and successful in the nation. It will be our 
pleasure to touch briefly upon the lives and services of a few of the 
most illustrious representatives of this profession whom Saratoga coun- 
ty, during the past century, has claimed as her own. Many of these 
men lived and died in this county, while others, seeking more fruitful 
fields for the practice of their profession, or answering the call of the 
people, ascending to the bench, have from time to time taken up their 
abode elsewhere. All, however, have been either native or adopted 
sons of Saratoga county, whose names have shed an undying lustre 
over the field of jurisprudence in America. 

Of the early lawyers some of the most prominent have already been 
referred to. Between 1815 and 1830 Samuel Young, Alpheus Good- 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 417 

rich, Azariah W. Odell, Oran G. Otis and Thomas Palmer were promi- 
nent lawyers located at Ballston Spa; Esek Cowen, William L. F. 
Warren and Aaron Blake at Saratoga Springs; Nicholas B. Doe, the 
Van Schoonhovens, Joshua Bloore, Joshua Mandeville, George W. Kirt- 
land, Samuel G. Huntington and John L. Viele at Waterford; George 
Palmer at Stillwater, and Wessell Gansevoort, William Metcalf and 
John Metcalf of Northumberland. 

Reuben Hyde Walworth is justl}^ regarded as one of the great arti- 
sans of our equity laws. He was born October 26, 1788, at Bozrah, 
Conn., the third son of Benjamin Walworth, and a descendant of the 
famed Lord Mayor of London who, during the reign of Richard H, slew 
the noted rebel. Watt Tyler. At the age of four years Reuben Hyde 
Walworth was brought by his parents to Hoosick, N. Y. At seventeen 
he began the study of the law, at twenty was admitted to practice, and in 
1811, having settled at Plattsburgh the year before, was appointed mas- 
ter in chancery and one of the county judges of Clinton, N. Y. In the 
war of 1813 he was an officer of volunteers, and participated in the 
siege of Plattsburgh in 1814 as acting adjutant-general on the staff of 
General Mooers. From 1821 to 1823 he was a member of Congress, 
and in the latter year was appointed a circuit judge by Governor Joseph 
C. Yates. After five years' service in the Circuit Court he was ap- 
pointed, in 1828, chancellor of the State of New York, holding this 
office until it was abolished by the constitution of 1847. As chancellor 
of New York State he rendered most distinguished service. His de- 
cisions as chancellor are contained in eleven volumes of Paige's 
Reports and three volumes of Barbour's Reports. His opinions de- 
livered in the Court for the Correction of Errors are contained, for the 
most part, in twenty-six volumes of AVendell's Reports, the seven 
volumes of Hill's Reports and the five volumes of Denio's Reports. 

Chancellor Walworth removed to Saratoga Springs in 1825, but 
located in Albany in 1828. Five years later he returned to the former 
place, where he resided until his death November 28, 1866. His first 
wife was Maria Ketchum Avery, whom he married while located at 
Plattsburgh. Their children were four daughters and two sons. Both 
the latter became men of distinction. Clarence H. Walworth embraced 
the Roman Catholic faith and entered the priesthood, for many years be- 
ing recognized as one of the most talented divines in Albany. Mansfield 
Tracy Walworth became a novelist of distinction. Chancellor Wal- 
worth's second wife — Sarah Ellen Smith, widow of Colonel John |. 



418 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLK. 

Hardin — brought with lier to Saratoga two sons and one daughter, the 
latter being Mrs. Ellen Hardin Walworth, who afterward acquired 
distinction as a brilliant writer. 

One of Chancellor Walworth's biographers pays him this tribute: 

In some sense he was the Bentham of America, without the bold speculations and 
fantastical theory which, to a certain extent, characterized the great English jurist. 
What Bentham did in removing the defects in English jurisprudence, Walworth did 
in renovating and simplifying the equity laws of the United States. Before his day 
the Court of Chancery in this State was a tribunal of very illy defined powers and 
uncertain jurisdiction, in a measure subservient to the English Court of Chancery in 
its procedure. Chancellor Walworth abolished much of its stolidity, many of those 
prolix and bewildering formalities which had their origin in the rising Mediaeval 
Ages, and reduced the practice of his court to certain standing rules, which he pre- 
pared with great mdustry. ' 

Esek Cowen was born in Rhode Island February 24, 1784. His father, 
Joseph Cowen, was the son of John Cowen, a Scotch emigrant who settled 
in Scituate, Mass., in 16oG. Young Cowen removed with his family to 
Greenfield, Saratoga county, about 1793. Later he resided for a while 
at Hartford, Washington county. Remarkable as it may seem, the only 
early educational advantages he enjoyed were six months' attendance in a 
di-strict school. At the age of sixteen he became a student in the law of- 
fice of Roger Skinner at .Sandy Hill, later continuing his studies with 
Zebulon Shipherd. In 1810 he was admitted to the bar, and entered 
upon the practice of his profession with Gardner Stowe, in Northum- 
berland. Subsequently he formed a law partnership with Wessell Ganse- 
voort. Removing to Saratoga vSprings in 1812 he rapidly attained a 
position of prominence. From 1824 to 1828 he was reporter in the 
Supreme Court and Court of Errors, .and upon the expiration of his 
term was appointed circuit judge by Governor Martin Van Buren. In 
1835 he was appointed to succeed Judge Savage on the Supreme bench, 
continuing in that office until his death, which occurred at Albany 
February 11, 1844, at the age of sixty. 

While a resident of Saratoga Springs Judge Cowen had served as jus- 
tice of the peace and supervisor, and from 1817 to 1824 had been in 
partnership with Judge William L. F. Warren. His reports, embrac- 
ing nine volumes, are highly prized by the profession. Beside com- 
piling these, he was the author of " Treatise on the Practice in Justice's 
Courts" and "Cowen and Hill's Notes on Phillips' Evidence." In the 
preparation of the latter, on which he labored for eleven years, he was 

' WiUiam L. Stone's " Reminiscences of Saratoga." 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 419 

assisted by Nicholas Hill, a lawyer of great ability, and by his son, 
Sidney J. Cowen. Judge Cowen married a daughter of Sidney Berry 
in 1811, and their children were vSusan Berry, Sidney Joseph and Pat- 
rick Henry. From every viewpoint Judge Cowen was a self-made man. 
It has been said of him : 

As a writer he was plain, but accurate; as a judge, prompt, acute, learned and up- 
right. But it was as a jurist tliat lie was best known. Of his opinions, which so 
eminently distinguish him as a jurist, it has been said that "in their depth and 
breadth of research, and their strength and reason of bearing, they are not excelled 
by those of any judge in England or America." His opulent mind, his love of re- 
search, caused him to trace every legal opinion to its fountain head. Like Lord 
Mansfield, to whom he has frequently been compared, he was accustomed, in the 
preparation of his opinions, to a liberal expenditure of mental capital — an excess of 
intellectual labor which renders them the triumph of a great genius, impelled l)y an 
unprecedented industry. 

His two sons, Sidnej' J. and Patrick Cowen, became lawyers. Sid- 
ney was admitted prior to his father's decease, and was of great assistance 
to him in the preparation of his legal works. He was a young man 
of distinguished ability and had attained a recognized position in his 
profession at the time of his death, which occurred soon after the de- 
cease of his father. Patrick served in the war of the Rebellion, and 
at its close commenced the practice of his profession at Saratoga 
Springs, where he successfully continued until his death a few years 
ago. 

John Willard was for many years a prominent member of the State 
judiciary. Born in Guilford, Conn., May 20, 1792, his paternal an- 
cestry dates back to the settlement of that town in 1659, coming 
from original Puritan stock. Being graduated in 1813 from Middle- 
bury college at Middlebury, Vt., he studied law, was admitted to 
practice in 1817, and locating at Salem, N. Y., soon became known as 
a sound lawyer. In 1833 he was appointed first judge of Washington 
county, and three years later was appointed circuit judge to succeed 
Judge Esek Cowen, who had been transferred to the Supreme Court, 
holding this office and that of vice-chancellor until it was abolished 
by the constitution of 1846. Upon receiving the latter appointment 
he removed to Saratoga Springs. In 18-17 he was elected to the new 
office of justice of the Supreme Court for the fourth district, and 
upon the expiration of his term of si.\ years retired from the bench. 
In 1 850 President Pierce appointed him a member of the commission 
to examine into the validity of the Mexican land grants in California, 



420 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

This duty was performed in a most thorough and satisfactory man- 
ner, and the United States Supreme Court was guided by his findings 
in making its decisions on several important claims. In 1861 Judge 
Willard was elected to the vState Senate, but before the completion 
of his term of office he died — on August 31, 1862. His life was a 
pure one, and well spent, and his integrity and great ability won for 
him universal esteem. He was the author of Willard's Equity Juris- 
prudence. 

Augustus Bockes, who is still living at the age of eighty-one years, 
inherited from his father, Adam Bockes, jr., of Greenfield, and from his 
gi'andfather, Adam Bockes, a brilliant intellect, a sturdy determination 
and a high moral tone, all of which contributed to render him a man of 
sterling worth and capable of attaining the highest measure of success 
in whatever undertaking in life he might have decided upon. That 
undertaking happened, fortunately for his fellow-men, to be the pursuit 
of the legal profession, in which he rose to heights attained only by the 
great minority. 

Judge Bockes was born in Oreenfield, October 1, 1817, studied law 
with Judiah Ellsworth, Esek Cowen and William A. Beach, and was 
admitted to practice in 1843, entering upon his professional career in 
partnership with the late Stephen P. Nash. He became the first judge 
of Saratoga county under the constitution of 1847 and continued in this 
office until 1854. On January 1, 1855, Governor Myron H. Clark ap- 
pointed him a justice of the Supreme Court for the fourth judicial dis- 
trict. On the expiration of his term he was elected and continued 
in the office by re-elections until disqualified by reason of the consti- 
tutional limit as to age, on January 1, 1888, serving for several years 
on the General Term bench. Upon no judge of any court in any county 
has the judicial ermine rested with more spotless purity than upon 
the shoulders of Judge Bockes. He never stinted himself in the ex- 
penditure of mental labor in the preparation of his opinions, and was 
always noted for the plainness of his phraseology and, above all, the 
accuracy of his deductions. His indomitable energy and remarkable 
powers of endurance are other characteristics which contributed to his 
success, enabling him to turn out a large quantity of work. Judge 
Bockes is venerated to-day as a high-minded, pure and just judge, and 
his counsels are frequently sought by some of the most eminent legal 
lights in the State. 

John Risley Putnam (born at "Putnam Place," the old family home- 




O^VWL "K^ \ wJtAVtXAA^A^ 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 421 

Stead, Saratoga Springs, N. Y.) is the son of Benjamin Risley Putnam 
and Eunice Morgan, and is lineally descended from John Putnam, an 
English Puritan who settled in Danvers, Mass., in 1034. Judge Put- 
nam's grandfather, Gideon Putnam, the son of Rufus and Mary Put- 
nam of Sutton, Mass., a cousin of General Israel Putnam, is described 
as a man of strong nerve, comprehensive powers of invention, an in- 
domitable will, the virtual creator and originator of the beautiful village 
of Saratoga Springs. He was born in Sutton, Mass., in 1764; married 
Doanda, daughter of Hon. Benjamin Risley of Hartford, Conn., and in 
1789 settled in Saratoga Springs. In 17'.(1 and subsequently, he bought 
large tracts of land at the Springs and began to develop the village, 
discovering and tubing the celebrated Congress spring in 180'.), and 
erecting Union Hall and Congress Hall. While engaged in the con- 
struction of the last named ho'.el, he died December 1, 1812. Although 
he closed his labors at the early age of forty-nine, he had already ac- 
complished a great work. The impetus he gave to the village was last- 
ing and his libera! public gifts of lands for religious and educational 
purposes were productive of great good in the community. His wife, 
a woman of rare personal excellence, died February 10, 1835. 

Benjamin Risley Putnam was the oldest son of Gideon, and was born 
in Rutland, V^t. , where his parents were residing temporarily at the 
time. This gentleman was a well known and prominent figure in Sara- 
toga Springs, where he passed his life, and followed the footsteps of 
his father in his activity in connection with the village of Saratoga 
Springs. He married Eunice, daughter of Daniel Morgan of Saratoga, 
a cousin of the hero of Cowpens. 

John Risley Putnam was their youngest son. He received an 
academical education in Saratoga Springs and studied law with Hon. 
Charles S. Lester and Hon. John C. Hulbert, was admitted the bar, 
and afterwards, in 1855, commenced the practice of his profession. He 
was industrious and painstaking in the work of his profession, and soon 
acquired a large and lucrative practice, and thereafter was engaged in 
many of the important litigations arising in the county. 

In the year 1875 Judge Putnam entered into a partnership with Will- 
iam H. Eustis, now the candidate of the Republican party of Minne- 
sota for governor, the business being conducted for about eight years 
under the name of Putnam & Eustis. Judge Putnam afterwards asso- 
ciated with himself John L. Henning, the partnership being conducted 
under the name of Putnam & Henning. 



432 OL'R COUNTY AN'I) ITS FEOPLIC. 

Soon after his admission to the bar, he served one term of four years 
as justice of the peace, and also acted for a period as one of the trustees 
of the village of Saratoga Springs. 

In the autumn of 1887 Judge Putnam received a nomination for jus- 
tice of the Supreme Court of the Fourth Judicial District by both the 
Republican and Democratic judicial conventions, and was thereafter 
elected without opposition, his term commencing January 1, 1888, on 
the termination of that of Hon. Augustus Bockes. For about four 
years after his term of office commenced. Judge Putnam was engaged 
in presiding at Circuit Courts and Courts of Oyer and Terminer and 
Special Terms within his district. In 1891 he was appointed by Gov- 
ernor Hill to the General Term of the Third Department, and contin- 
ued in that position until the adoption of the late constitution, when he 
was designated b}' Governor Morton as one of the justices of the Appel- 
late Division for the Third Department. 

The opinions written by Judge Putnam as an appellate judge may be 
found in the last thirty volumes of Hun's Supreme Court reports and 
the twenty-nine volumes of the reports of the Appellate Division. 

Judge Putnam was married in 1SG7 to Mary vSteiner, daughter of R. 
M. Shoemaker, one of the most prominent of railroad magnates of Ohio. 
They have three sons. 

John Thompson, first judge of the first Court of Common Pleas, was 
born in Litchfield, Conn., March 20, 1749, and was a member of the 
Litchfield colony which emigrated to Stillwater in 17G3. Upon the 
erection of the county of Saratoga in 1791 Governor Clinton, upon the 
recommendation of General Philip Schuyler, appointed him first judge. 
In 1798 he was elected a Representative in Congress; in 1801 he served 
as a member of the constitutional revision convention; was reelected 
to Congress in 180G and 1808, and retired from the judgeship, by 
reason of having reached the limit of age, in 1819. He died in 1823. 
Judge James Thompson of Milton was his son. 

First Judge Salmon Child of Greenfield, Judge John Thompson's 
successor, was born in Connecticut in 1702; joined Washington's armj- 
in 1781, and after the erection of Saratoga county served in nearly 
every office within the county's gift. He served two terms in the State 
Assembly, was a member of the constitutional convention in 1821, and 
in the electoral college of 1828 cast his vote for John Quincy Adams. 
He died in Wisconsin in 185G. 

First Judge James Thompson was the son of l-'irst Judge John 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 423 

Thompson, and was born November 30, 1775. In 1799 he was ad- 
mitted to the bar, soon after married a daughter of Abel Whalen of 
Milton, and opened an office in his residence in Milton, now owned by- 
Miss Rhoda Thompson. He became first judge in 1818, and was re- 
appointed for two successive terms. February 7, 1823, he was chosen 
Regent of the University, holding that office until his death December 
19, 1845. George Thompson, John W. Thompson, for many years 
president of the Ballston Spa National bank, and James Thompson, all 
of Ballston Spa; and Edward D. Thompson of Lawrence, Kansas, were 
his sons. Samuel Thompson, Frank Thompson and the late George L. 
Thompson of Ballston Spa, sons of John W. Thompson, are his grand- 
sons. Prof. Taylor Lewis esteemed him as "the father of the Sara- 
toga county bar." 

Colonel Samuel Young was born at Lenox, Mass., in 1779, and at 
about the close of the Revolution he came with his parents to that part 
of Saratoga, then Albany county, now included in the town of Clifton 
Park. After gaining an elementary education in the district" schools, 
he began the study of the law with Levi H. Palmer, at Ballston. After 
being admitted to the bar he opened an office at Academy Hill, in the 
town of Ballston, soon gaining an extensive and lucrative practice. He 
served as justice of the peace and several terms as supervisor; in 1813 
was elected to the Assembly on the Democratic ticket; became an aide 
on the staff of Governor Tompkins, and in the session of 1815, having 
been reelected to that body, was chosen its speaker. In the fall of 
that year he was again a candidate for the Assembly, but was defeated 
by Esek Cowen. In 181G he began a term of twenty years' service as 
canal commissioner. In 1819 he was chosen senator from the eastern 
district. In 1831, with John Cramer, Salmon Child and Jeremy Rock- 
well, he was elected a delegate to represent Saratoga county in the 
constitutional revision commission, in which distinguished body he 
stood among- the foremost. In April, 1834, Colonel Young was nomi- 
nated for the governorship by the Democratic legislative caucus, but 
was defeated by De Witt Clinton, who ran on an irregular ticket. The 
following year Colonel Young was returned to the Assembly and again 
chosen its speaker, in 1836. In 1830 the Democrats of Saratoga county 
nominated him for Congress, but he was defeated by a small majority 
by John W. Taylor. In 1833 he was appointed first judge of the county 
courts, his term expiring in 1838, when he declined a reappointment, 
lie served two terms as senator, from 1834 to 1840, and as secretary 



424 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE, 

of State from 1S42 to 1845. Again he was a State senator from 1845 
to 184T, and while serving as such, in 1840, without his knowledge the 
Democrats of Chemung county nominated him to represent them in the 
constitutional convention held that year, but was defeated. His retire- 
ment from the Senate in 1847 terminated his official career, and he re- 
tired to his residence in Ballston, where he died suddenly of heart disease 
November 3, 1850, in the seventy-third year of his age. One of his biog- 
raphers has said of him : 

His integrity was never questioned, and above most men it was his delight to war 
against and expose both political and official corruption in whichever party it existed. 
When exposing corruption in the Senate of the United States he was styled by Gen- 
eral Jackson, " the Cato of the New York Senate." He was gentle, affable, loving, 
fond of some amusements, society of the young, the cultivation of his garden, the 
beauties of the natural scenery around it. He was so free from political jealousies, 
and so unmindful of the contests in which he had been defeated, as often not to recol- 
lect the names of his successful opponents. He retained the vigor and serenity of 
his mind to the last, and after passing the age of sixty commenced the study of sev- 
eral of the modern languages. 

John Cramer of Waterford was one of the really remarkable products 
of Saratoga county. He was a son of Conrad Cramer, and was born 
in the town of Saratoga, May 14, 1779. In 1800 he began the practice 
of the law in Waterford, where he spent the remainder of his life. 
Early in his career he took an interest in politics, and as presidential 
elector in 1804 cast his ballot for Thomas Jefferson. He served in the 
State Assembly in 1806, 1811, and again in 1842. In 1821 he was a 
delegate to the constitutional convention; in 1823 represented the old 
fourth district in the State Senate. In 1832 he defeated John W.Taylor 
for Congress, though the latter was generally considered invincible, 
and was re-elected in 1834. In 1840 he was again a candidate, but was 
defeated. Up to within a few years before his death in 1870, he re- 
mained very influential in politics. He was a natural leader, and for 
over half a century he exercised a controlling influence in political 
matters. 

William La Fayette Warren, born February 4, 1793, at Troy, N. Y., 
and graduated from Union College in 1814, in the latter year located 
at Saratoga Springs and entered the law office of Judge Esek Cowen as 
a student. From 1817 to 1824 these two legal geniuses practiced in part- 
nership. Mr. Warren became district attorney of Saratoga coimty in 
1819 and retained that office until 1830, when he was succeeded by Nich- 
olas Hill, who also had been a student in Judge Cowen's office. He 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 425 

assisted in the preparation of Cowen and Hill's Notes on Phillips' Evi- 
dence, preparing the fourth and last volume of the series himself. After 
the elevation of Judge Cowen to the bench, Mr. Wan-en formed a part- 
nership with his nephew, William A. Beach. 

After holding various town ofifices Mr. Warren, in 1824, was appointed 
master in chancery, holding this responsible office until 1848, when it 
was abolished by the constitution. He also held the office of "justice 
of thepeace, performing judicial duties." From 1823 to 1831 he served 
as judge advocate of the l.">th Division of New York Infantry. From 
1845 to 1848 he was judge of the Court of Common Pleas. His wife 
was Eliza White, only daughter of Epenetus White of Ballston. Judge 
Warren was one of the originators of the Saratoga and Whitehall rail- 
road, the Schenectady Bank and the Bank of Saratoga Springs. But 
he never relinquished the practice of his profession. He knew the his- 
tory of all important law suits in the county for a period of more than 
half a century, and was a high authority in estates and titles. In social 
life he was noted for his hospitality and abounding good nature. His 
death occurred at his home in Saratoga Springs May 23, 1875, when he 
was passing through his eighty-third year. 

Nicholas Hill unquestionably was one of the most talented, versatile 
and erudite lawyers New York State ever produced. He was of Irish 
descent and was born in Florida, Montgomery county, N. Y., in 1805. 
His father fought in the Revolution. In 1829 Mr. Hill was admitted 
to the practice of his profession in Montgomery county, and soon after 
formed a partnership with Deodatus Wright at Amsterdam. Subse- 
quently he removed to Saratoga Springs, and while engaged in practice 
there assisted in the compilation of Cowen's Notes on Phillips' Evi- 
dence. After a brief, but eminently successful career in Saratoga, he 
removed to Albany, in 1840, where, the following year, he became re- 
porter for the Supreme Court, serving for three years. Seven volumes 
of reports were compiled and edited by him. While in practice in Al- 
bany he was associated, at various times, with iJeodatus Wright, 
Stephen P. Nash, Peter Cagger and John K. Porter. He died May 1, 
1859, after a career in the law which was equalled by few men of his 
day. 

Henry Walton, born in New York in 1768 and educated in England, 
began the study of law with Aarcm Burr. In 1790 he removed to the 
town of Ballston and built a home on the farm now owned by Captain 
Guy Ellis Baker. From 1794 to 1808 he was surrogate of the county. 



426 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Subsequently he resided in Albany and New York, but in 181G located 
at Saratoga Springs, where he built a splendid country seat — "Wood- 
lawn." He owned all the northern part of the present site of Saratoga 
Springs, and cxcav^ated and tubed many mineral springs in that village. 
He enjoyed a lucrative legal practice for many years, and died in New 
York city in 1844. 

William Augustus Beach was a native of Ballston Spa, and a son of 
Miles Beach, who had come from Connecticut in 1786. Miles Beach, 
on the maternal side, was of the same family as Judge Smith Thomp- 
son, who became associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United 
States. In ISO? Miles Beach married Cynthia Warren, a sister of Judge 
William L. F. Warren, and two years later removed to Saratoga Springs. 
After attending school at Saratoga Springs academy and Captain Part- 
ridge's military school at Middletown, Vt., William A. Beach began 
the study of law with his uncle. Judge Warren, and in 1833 was ad- 
mitted to the bar. He formed partnerships successively with Nicholas 
Hill, Sidney J. Cowen, Daniel Shepherd and Augustus Bockes. In 
1843 he became district attorney of Saratoga county, serving until 1847. 
Four years later he removed to Troy, where he soon became known as 
one of the most successful lawyers, as well as one of the most widely 
known, in the United States. During his career there, and in New 
York citj', to which place he subsequently removed, he was engaged in 
many of the most celebrated cases ever tried before any courts in the 
United States. In an address delivered bj' Roswell A. Parmenter of 
Troy, on the occasion of the celebration of the centennial anniversary 
of the naming of the city of Troy, held in Januar\', 1880, that distin- 
guished lawyer said: 

In his professional career William A. Beach .survived three epoch.s. While, com- 
l)aratively speaking, a young practitioner, he attained the leadership of the Saratoga 
bar. In his mature years and a more perfected judgment he selected the city of Troy 
as the theater of his local practice of the law, where, by common consent, he became 
the trusted oracle of the Troy bar. Subsequently he removed to the city of New 
York, then, as now, the commercial metropolis of the western hemisphere. There, 
also, in the midst of giants of the profession, he again took a front rank and main- 
tained it with undmimed lustre for fifteenyears, when he retired from the arena of 
professional contest with colors still flying at masthead, but with a clear forecast of 
his own early demise. Whatever fame now belongs or shall be hereafter awarded 
to William A. Beach was acquired by him in his professional capacity, and in the 
ordinary practice of his i>rofessional life, while engaged in establishing and defend- 
ing the legal rights of others and not of himself. He demonstrated the great truth 
that man at times makes the circumstances under which he acquires distinction 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 427 

among his fellow-men. He possessed in a large degree quick perception, sound 
judgment, critical discrimination, and an analytical mind. He never lagged behind 
when duty called him to the front. That characteristic was eminently displayed by 
him in the celebrated trial of Theodore Tilton against Henry Ward Beecher. On 
either side the array of eminent counsel was formidable, but their strength and cour- 
age had become exhausted, so great had been the labor, strain and responsibility 
imposed upon them. One of them, however, faced the closing ordeal with unparal- 
leled heroism and undaunted resolution. That mail was William A. Beach. . . . 
Not unmindful of the responsibility here assumed, nor of the criticism it may invoke, 
I shall in this presence firmly contend, as I do sincerely believe, that as an orator 
in the judicial forum William A. Beach was the peer of Demosthenes or Cicero, or 
both combined. 

Gideon Hawley, jr., one of the early lawyers of the county, was dis- 
tinguished, not so much as a practitioner of the law, but by reason of 
his efforts in the cause of education. His father, Gideon Hawle}', came 
from Connecticut and settled in Charlton soon after the Revolution. 
Gideon Hawley, jr., was a graduate of Union college, and had become 
a lawyer of high standing when, in 1813, he was appointed as the first 
superintendent of public schools of the !3tate of New York. He re- 
tnoved to Albany after his appointment and resided there until his 
death. He served in this office until 1821, when it was abolished. 
Deputy Superintenlent S. S. Randall, in his " Digest of the Common 
School System," published in 1844, said of Mr. Hawley: 

To no individual in the State are the friends of common school education more 
deeply indebted for the impetus giving to the cause of elementary instruction in its 
infancy than to (iideon Hawley. . . . From a state of anarchy and confusion, 
and complete disorganization, within a period of less than eight years arose a beau- 
tiful and stately fabric, based upon the most impregnable foundations, sustained by 
an enlightened public sentiment, fortified by the best and most enduring affections 
of the people, and cherished as the safeguard of the State, the true palladium of its 
greatness and prosperity. The foundations of a permanent and noble .system of pop- 
ular education were strongly and securely laid by him. 

Samuel G. Huntington was the son of Rev. Enoch Huntington and 
was born at Middletown, Conn., May 21, 1782. He was also a nephew 
and namesake of Samuel Huntington, one of the signers of the Decla- 
ration of Independence, president of the Colonial Congress, and after- 
ward governor of Connecticut. He was graduated from Yale College 
at the age of eighteen years, and a few years later was admitted to the 
bar in Middlesex county. Conn. In 180G he removed to Waterford, 
Saratoga county, where he practiced his profession until 1823. During 
his career in Waterford he rose to a distinguished position in the ranks 



428 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of his profession. Upon his removal to Troy in 1825 he became recog- 
nized as an authority on real estate law, and his counsels were largely 
sought by his contemporaries. During the term of office of Governor 
Clinton he was made judge of the Court of Common Pleas for Rensse- 
laer county. He died July 5, 1854. 

Francis Norton Mann was a native of the town of Milton, where he 
was born July 19, 1802, the son of Jeremiah Mann and Lydia Norton. 
He was graduated from Union College in 1825, was admitted to the 
bar three years later and opened an office in Troy, where he became a 
lawyer of prominence. 

John W. Taylor was born in that part of Ballston now the town of 
Charlton, March 26, 1784, the son of Judge John Taylor. After being 
graduated from Union College in 1803, he studied law and practiced in 
partnership with Samuel Cook at Court House Hill. His career as a 
practicing lawyer was brief, however. Removing to Jessup's Landing 
he embarked in the lumber trade. In 1811 and 1812 he served in the 
Assembly, in 1812 was sent to Congress, and was re-elected for ten con- 
secutive terms. In the meantime he returned to reside at his old home 
in Ballston, and in 1810 located at Ballston Spa. Twice he was elected 
speaker of the House of Representatives — first in 1821 for the second 
session of the Sixteenth Congress to succeed Henry Cla)% who had re- 
signed ; and again in 1 825, for the full term of the Nineteenth Congress. 
In 1840 Mr. Taylor was elected to the State Senate, but resigned 
August 10, 1842. Soon after he removed to Cleveland, O., where his 
death occurred September 18, 1854. It is a fact worthy of note that 
John W. Taylor was the only representative from the State of New 
York who ever was chosen speaker of the House of Representatives in 
Congress. 

Thomas J. Marvin was born at East Line, in the town of Malta, in 
June, 1803, and was the son of William Marvin, a merchant and tavern- 
keeper there. He was educated, first at the famous old Ballston Acad- 
emy, then at Union College, from which he was graduated in 1820. 
Immediately entering, as a student, the office of William L. F. Warren 
at Saratoga Springs, he was admitted to the bar in 1829. In 1836 Gov- 
ernor Marcy appointed him a judge of Common Pleas, and from 1838 
to 1847, when that court was abolished by the constitution, he was pre- 
siding judge. Aside from his legal career. Judge Marvin was a joint 
proprietor of the United States hotel at Saratoga Springs from 1832 to 
1852, the last ten years managing that famous resort in partnership 




r__^^ 



/Juy> fffH/U^^^ 



THE BENCH AND BAR 429 

with his brother, James M. Marvin. He died December 29, 1852, in 
his fiftieth year, hardly having passed the prime of a vigorous and most 
useful life. 

Judge Marvin was a man of quick perceptions and was deeply read in the law. 
He was quick to see a point and to act upon it. When he saw that the quick con- 
struction of the law led to a certain end, though it might clash with the public de- 
mands or his own private wishes, he fearlessly did his duty.' 

John K. Porter was one of the most illustrious legal lights ever pro- 
duced by Saratoga county. He was a son of Dr. Elijah Porter and a 
grandson of Major Moses Porter, of Revolutionary fame, and was born 
at Waterford, Saratoga county, January 12, 1819. He died in 189jj. 
Without attempting, in this brief review, to do anything more than to 
touch upon some of the most important epochs in his remarkable ca- 
reer, we will pass over his early studies under Prof. David McNeice at 
Waterford, at Lansingburgh Academy, again at Waterford under Prof. 
Taylor Lewis, and finally at Union College, from which he was grad- 
uated in 1837, after a two years' course. Beginning the study of the law 
under Nicholas B. Doe and Richard B. Kimball, he soon afterward be 
came a member of that firm, and before being admitted as an attorney 
in the Supreme Court, his wonderful talents were recognized by Judge 
Willard, who permitted him to practice in the Court of Oyer and Ter- 
miner. He soon came in contact with many of the most brilliant law- 
yers in the State, who found in him an adversary worthy of their steel. 
In 1840 he was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court, and at 
once assumed a place among the most formidable leaders in the pro- 
fession, though the youngest of them ail. He was engaged in the trial 
of many causes of great public interests. In 1846 he represented Sar- 
atoga county in the constitutional convention. In 1847 he married a 
daughter of Hon. Eli M. Todd of Waterford, and the following year 
removed to Albany, where he practiced in partnership with such law- 
yers as Nicholas Hill and Peter Cagger. In 1864 he became a judge 
of the New York State Court of Appeals, by appointment of Governor 
Fenton, to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Henry R. Sel- 
den, and the following year was elected to the position by an over- 
whelming majority over Martin Grover. In 1867 Union College con- 
ferred upon him the degree of Doctor of Laws. In January, 1868, he 
resigned the Court of Appeals justiceship, removed to New York and 
engaged in practice as the head of the firm of Porter, Lowrey, Loren 

' Enos R. Hann's " Bench and Bar of Saratoga County." 



430 OUR COUNTY AXD ITS PEOPLE. 

& Stone. In the celebrated case of Theodore Tilton again,st Henry 
Ward Beecher he was associated with William M. Evarts and others in 
the defense. His greatness as a lawyer was never brought into ques- 
tion. 

Stephen P. Nash, who died at Bernardsville, N. J., June 4, 1898, in 
the seventy-seventh year of his age, though a native of Albany, where 
he was born August 26, 1821, was for many years a leading practitioner 
of Saratoga county. He was a son of David Nash and Hannah Payn. 
Educated at the Albany Academy and, after his father's death and the 
removal of his mother to Saratoga Springs, at the French College at 
Chambly, Canada, he began the study of law under Esek Cowen, was 
admitted to the bar in ISiS, and at once, without further examination, 
received from Chancellor Walworth his license as solicitor and counsel 
in chancery. During his clerkship he had assisted Justice Cowen and 
Nicholas Hill in their labors on "Cowen and Hill's Notes on Phillips' 
Evidence." Upon his admission to the bar Mr. Nash formed a partner- 
shij) with Judge Augustus Bockes, but soon removed to Albany to be- 
come junior partner to Mr, Hill, then State reporter, whom he assisted 
in the later volumes of his reports. In 1845 he removed to New York 
city, becoming a member of the firm of Walker & Nash, Shortly 
afterward, with Gilbert M. Speir, afterward a judge of the New York 
Superior Court, he formed the firm of Spier & Nash, and seventeen 
years later, with Edward H. Owen and Joseph H. Gray, the firm of 
Owen, Nash & Gray. On the dissolution of that partnership he formed 
with his son, John McL. Nash, and George C. Holt, the firm of Nash 
& Holt; with his son and J. P. Kingsford, the firm of Nash & Kings- 
ford; and finally with his son and Charles L. Jones the firm of S. P. & 
J. McL. Nash. 

Mr. Nash's admission to the chancery bar, prior to the abolition of 
that court by the Constitution of 1846, may to some extent explain the 
bent of his studies. While he had a varied experience in all branches 
of civil jurisprudence, he has distinguished himself in a special way in 
the line of cases, which involve equity and the remedies by which equit- 
able, as distinguished from purely legal, rights are enforced. A con- 
tributor to the New York Sun, speaking of Mr. Nash's services, said : 

By the death of Stephen P. Nash, iu the seventy-seventh year of his age, the 
American bar has lost one of its most distinguislied members. Mr. Nash was par- 
ticularly well trained in equity jurisprudence and in those branches of legal learning 
which have their roots in the ecclesiastical law of England. He was also a real es- 



THE BENX'II AND BAR. 431 

tate lawyer of exceptional ability. He was a man of refinement as well as strength, 
and his courteous demeanor and kindly manners miglit well be imitated by many 
young lawyers of the present day who seem to think that brusqueness or rudeness 
and greatness go together. In the Board of Trustees of Columbia College, where 
Mr. Nash had occupied a seat for thirty years, his loss will be greatly felt. 

William Hay, son of James Hay, born at Cambridge, N. Y., Septem- 
ber 10, 1793, began the study of law in 1808, at the age of fifteen year.s, 
in the office of Henry O. Martindale at Glens Falls, whither his parents 
had removed when he was a child. In 1812, soon after his admission 
to practice, he located at Caldwell; served a short time in the war of 
1812; in 1819 and 1820 edited the Warren Patriot at Lake George; in 
1822 removed to Glens Falls, where he was elected to the Assembly. 
From 1837 to 18-10 he practiced at Ballston Spa, and from 1840 to the 
time of his death, February 12, 1870, lived at Saratoga Springs. He 
was an authority on American history, and during the latter year of his 
life collected a vast amount of data which he had hoped to incorporate 
into a history of Saratoga county. "His memory was something ex- 
traordinary, his industry in research indefatigable, and his mind was 
stored with the choicest cullings from the wide fields of literature and 
belles-lettres." One of his daughters, Mary Payne Hay, became the 
wife of Hon. Augustus Bockes. 

George Gordon Scott, who died at his home in Ballston Spa in 1880, 
aged seventy-five years, was for many years prior to that time the sole 
survivor not only of the old Common Pleas bench, but of the fifteen 
New York State senators who up to that time had been chosen from 
Saratoga county. Jndge Scott was born in the town of Ballston May 
11, 1811, the son of James Scott and grandson of George Scott." He 
was graduated from Union college in 1831, when he began the study of 
the law with Palmer & Goodrich at Ballston Spa, and later with Brown 
& Thompson, at the same place. In 1834 he was admitted to the bar; 
January 23, 1839, married Lucy Pitkin Lee, daughter of the Hon. Joel 
Lee. In 1838 Governor Marcj' commissioned him judge of the cotinty 
courts, but he resigned before the expiration of his term. In 185C and 
1857 he served in the Assembly; and the two following years was a 
member of the State Senate. Removing to the town of Ballston in 
1859, he served as supervisor from that town for several years. At the 
centennial celebration in Ballston in 1876 he delivered a historical ad- 
dress, which has formed the foundation of much of the valuable and in- 

' Incidents in the early career of the Scott family are contained in c;hapter VI. 



433 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

teresting information incorporated into this work. He was a man of 
keen intellect, a just judge and as a lawyer, a man of rare ability. 
Judge Scott left a son, James L. Scott, now in practice at Ballston Spa. 

John A. Corey, the second judge of the Saratoga County Court, suc- 
ceeding Augustus Bockes, was the son of Daniel Corey of Greenwich, 
N. Y., and was born November 5, 1805. He came to Saratoga Springs 
in 1824, was employed for a while by the Saratoga Sentinel, then 
studied law with Judge Cowen, Judiah Ellsworth and Nicholas Hill. 
In 1835 he was admitted to the bar; in 1838 was appointed examiner in 
chancery; from 1844 to 1853 published the Saratoga Republican, was 
justice of the peace several years, and upon the resignation of Augustus 
Bockes as county judge, was appointed to fill the unexpired term. In 
1855 President Pierce offered him the governorship of the territory of 
Kansas, but he declined the honor. In 1856 he was appointed United 
States commissioner, serving as such until his death in 1873. 

James B. McKean, county judge from 1855 to 1859, organizer and 
first colonel of the Sevent}' seventh Regiment New York Volunteers in 
the Rebellion,' studied law with General Bullard at Waterford and was 
admitted to the bar in 184?. In 1855 he was one of the founders of 
the Republican party, and in 1858 was elected to Congress. He was 
re-elected in 18G0, but left Wa.shington to come home and organize the 
regiment which he led to the front. At the conclusion of his term in 
Congress he resumed the practice of his' profession; accepted from 
President Grant the office of chief justice of Utah, and he doubtless 
was the first federal officer in that territory to comprehend the full im- 
port of the designs of Brigham Young. At the conclusion of his term 
of office he located in Salt Lake City, where for many years he prac- 
ticed his profession. 

John W. Crane, county judge from 1859 to 1803, and from 1877 to 
1882, was born at West Milton, September 30, 1827, the son of Justus 
Crane. He was educated at Smith & Bang's and Prof. Hancock's acad- 
emies at Saratoga Springs, studied law with William M. Searing and 
William A. Beach, was admitted to the bar in 1852, and besides serving 
as county judge has filled other local offices. He still enjoys a large 
practice at Saratoga Springs. 

John C. Hulbert, county judge from 1863 to 1871, was born in Pitts- 
ford, Vt., February 12, 1817, the son of Luther Hulbert; was educated 
at Saratoga Springs ; served an apprenticeship in the office of the Balls- 

'See Chapter XU. 




CHARLES S. LHSTEfR. 



THE BEXCH AND BAR. 433 

ton Spa Gazette; studied law with Thomas J. Marvin, Nicholas Hill 
and William A. Beach; was admitted to the bar in 183G, and was sur- 
rogate from 18-17 to 1850. 

Charles S. Lester, who is still enjoying active practice at Saratoga 
Springs, was county judge from 1871 to 1876. He was born in Wor- 
cester, i\Iass., in March, 1825, and was educated in the Salem academy. 
His father died while Charles S. Lester was a child, and the latter was 
placed in charge of his maternal uncle, Judge John Willard, then resid- 
ing at Salem. Young Lester began the studyof his profession in the 
office of Crary & Fairchild at Salem, in 1842, continuing his studies in 
the office of Judge Willard, who in the meantime had removed to Sara 
toga Springs. In 1S4G he was admitted to the bar, and soon formed a 
partnership with William Cullen Bockes, brother of Judge Augustus 
Bockes. Subsequent partnerships were formed with Frederick S. Root, 
A. L. Bartlett, and Alembert Pond. In 1859 he was elected district 
attorney; in 1870 was elected county judge, was re-elected three years 
later and served two terms. Judge Lester for more than a score of 
3'ears has been associated in practice with his eldest son, Charles C. 
Lester, and their practice for many years has been very heavy and 
lucrative. He is esteemed as one of the soundest members of the Sara- 
toga county bar. His three sons, Charles C. , Willard and James W. , 
are also attornej's and prominent citizens of the county. The latter is 
major in the Second Regiment of New York Volenteers, which served 
in the war with Spain. 

Jesse S. L'Amoreaux, born in Wilton, December 11, 1837, and ed- 
ucated at the Fort Edward Collegiate Institute, at first taught school 
in his native town and at Schuylerville. Studying law with Lewis & 
Welles at the latter place he was admitted to the bar, and in 1858 re- 
moved to Ballston Spa, where he practiced successively in partnership 
with C. C. Hill, George W. Chapman, Alvah C. Dake and Seth Wha- 
len. Since 1885 he has practiced his profession independently. He 
became a charter member of the Bar Association of New York State. 
He served as judge of .Saratoga county from 1883 to 1889, has been 
attorney for the First National bank of Ballston Spa since its organ- 
ization, and in 1887 was the candidate of the Republican party for 
State comptroller. Judge L'Amoreaux is acknowledged to be one of 
the most sagacious members of the bar of Saratoga county. 

John O. Mott, now occupying a local bench in New York city, is a 
grandson of Zebulon Mott of Halfmoon. He studied law with John K. 

28 



434 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Porter, was admitted to the bar in 1854, two years later was elected 
district attorney, and soon after the expiration of his term removed to 
New York, where he soon became recognized as one of the leaders of 
the metropolitan bar. 

Chesselden Ellis was born in New Windsor, Vt., in 1808; was (grad- 
uated from Union College in 1823, and having studied law with Hon. 
John Cramer of Waterford, was admitted to the bar in 1829. He was 
appointed district attorney April 25, 1837, upon the resignation of 
Nicholas Hill, but resigned the office in 1843 to take a seat in Congress. 
He was defeated for re-election in 1844, and the following year re- 
moved to New York city, where he practiced his profession until his 
death in 1854. 

George S. Batcheller, ' who for several years had been one of the 
prominent representatives of the bar of Saratoga county, was lionored, 
in 1875, by appointment as the American member of the Interna- 
tional Court at Cairo, Egypt, established tliat year upon the request of 
the khedive of Egypt. General Batcheller served in this oiifice for 
several years, with great credit to himself and the government which 
appointed him. Judge Batcheller had served as member of assembly 
from Saratoga county in 1873 and 1874, and sub.sequently served in the 
same body in 188G and in 1889. In the latter year he was appointed 
assistant secretary of the United States treasury, serving through the 
administration of President Benjamin Harrison. In 1897 President 
McKinley reappointed him as a member of the International Court at 
Cairo where he is now serving. 

Lewis Varney was born January 39, 1838, in Luzerne, Warren 
county, N. Y. After studying law in the office of Ellsworth & Butler 
at Saratoga Springs, he was admitted to the bar in May, 1861, and 
soon gained a lucrative practice. He won several notable cases early 
in his career. He was the sole delegate to the judicial convention of 
1887 in favor of the nomination of Hon. John R. Putnam as justice of 
the Supreme Court. There was a deadlock between the two leading 
candidates, and by persistent work Mr. Varney, aided by John L. 
Henning, Hon. Edgar T. Brackett and eight others, won the nomina- 
tion for the candidate of his choice, who was also the choice of the 
leaders of the Saratoga bar. Mr. Varney was a staunch Republican, 
and served in the Assembly in 1890 and 1891. He introduced the bill 
abolishing the pensions of the judges of the Court of Appeals, securing 

' Sec Chapter XII. 



THE BENCH AND BAR. 435 

its passage after it had been unfavorably reported by the judiciarj- 
committee. He was married in 186-t to Miss Kate E. Hill, who, with 
a son and three daughters, survives him. Mr. Varney's death occurred 
at Saratoga Springs October 5, 1898. 

Edgar Luyster Fursman of Troy, now a justice of the Supreme 
Court, was born in Saratoga county August 5, 1838, was educated in 
the Schuylerville and Greenwich academies, the New York Conference 
seminary at Charlotteville, and the Fort Edward Institute; studied 
law with Hon. A. D. Wait at Fort Edward ; was admitted to practice 
in 1858 at Caldwell, N. Y., ancl practiced for several years at Schuyler- 
ville. In 1866 he removed to Troy, N. Y., where, in 188"2, he was 
elected judge of Rensselaer county, and re-elected in 1888. In 1889 he 
was elevated to the Supreme bench; his term expires in 1903. 

Edward Fitch Bullard, born at Schuylerville February 7, 1821, began 
the practice of law at Waterford in IS-tO. Four years later Governor 
Bouck appointed him examiner in chancery to succeed John K. Porter, 
and he held this office until it was abolished by the constitution of 
1847. Mr. Bullard has with great industry and perseverance acquired 
and conducted a large practice He is now in New York city. 

Oliver L. Barbour, a nephew of and for many years confidential clerk 
to Chancellor Walworth, was born in Washington county in 1811, but 
removed to Saratoga when a boy. Though never engaged largely in the 
practice of his profession, he was the author, editor or compiler of the 
sixty-seven volumes of Barbour's Supreme Court Reports and three 
volumes of Chancery Reports, and numerous valuable legal works, a 
grand legacy left by him to the legal profession. His works have been 
highly commended by great jurists and other authorities of high repute. 

Among others, of those deceased, was Judiah Ellsworth, of Saratoga 
Springs, a contemporary of Judge Esek Cowen. He practiced for 
many 3'ears in all the courts of the State, and will be well remembered 
by the older inhabitants of the county. In his time he was one of the 
leaders of the profession, and well known for his legal attainments, his 
oratorical ability and his quickness of apprehension. His name 
appears as one of the counsel engaged in numerous cases in the reports 
of the State through a period of many years. 

William T. Odell was a contemporary of Judge Scott, became dis- 
trict attorney, and was a prominent lawyer and citizen of Ballston Spa 
for many years. 

Isaac C. Ormsby of Waterford, whose death occurred a few rears 



43G OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

since, acted as district attorney of the county. He was a popular 
officer and universally esteemed as a citizen and a lawyer. 

Daniel Shepherd, at one time a partner of William A. Beach, obtained 
a prominent position ac the bar. He was known for his legal attain- 
ments, as well as his literary ability. He died at a comparatively early 
age. His son, Augustine W. Shepherd, late corporation counsel of the 
village of Saratoga Springs, is now practicing at that place, and has in- 
herited much of the legal ability of his father. 

Frederick S. Root, a contemporary of Judge C. S. Lester, practiced 
his profession at Saratoga Springs. Prior to his decease, which oc- 
curred when he was about forty years of age, he had attained a respected 
position at the bar. 

Joseph A. Shoudy was at one time a partner of Lemuel B. Pike, and 
later of Frederick S. Root. He was much esteemed as a lawyer and a 
citizen. After practicing for several years at Saratoga Springs he 
removed to New York City, and there became engaged in a successful 
business, which continued until his death. 

Alembert Pond, at one time a partner of Judge C. S. Lester, and 
subsequently a member of the firm of Pond, French & Brackett, prac- 
ticed for many years at Saratoga Springs. He was a recognized leader 
of the bar, well known for his extraordinary industry and legal attain- 
ments. His preparation of cases for trial or argument in appellate 
courts was most exhaustive, and he was always regarded by his brother 
practitioners as a most formidable antagonist. 

Among the well known and successful lawyers who have i)racticed 
in the county and are now deceased, we might also mention Henry W. 
Merrill, Franklin Hoag, John Van Rensselaer, William M. Searing, 
and James P. Butler. The son of the latter, Walter P. Butler, is now 
engaged in practice in Saratoga Springs. 

Edgar T. Brackett was born at Emerson's Corners, Saratoga county, 
N. Y., July 30, 1853. In childhood he removed with his parents to 
Mount Vernon, Iowa, where in 1872 he was graduated from Cornell 
College of that place. In September of that j'ear he removed to Sara- 
toga Springs and began the study of law in the office of Pond & French, 
being admitted to the bar in June, 187-5. Since 187G he has practiced 
law in Saratoga Springs, first as a member of the firm of Pond, French 
& Brackett, then as the head of the firm of Brackett, Butler & Baucus. 
He is now practicing alone. In 1895 he was elected to represent the 
Twenty-eighth district in the New York State Senate and still serves 
in that capacity. 




J- .-^ ,:V^ "^' -■^^^•''13 i^^ 




.^-— C/ 



V 




4H8 OUR COUXTV AND ITS PEOPLK. 

York city; in 1870 he moved to Troy as a member of the firm of King 
& Quackenbush, and in 1874 he located at Ballston Spa, where he has 
since resided. He is now associated with his son, Edwin B. Quacken- 
bush. Mr. Quackenbu.sh is recognized as one of the most learned men 
in the principles and theories of law in Saratoga county, and his coun- 
sel is fre(juently sought by his fellow-practitioners. He is still an in- 
cessant student. His entire circle of acquaintances look upon him as a 
man whose standards of honesty are and always have been as rigid as 
steel. 

Winsor Brown French, born in Cavendish, Windsor county, Vt., 
July 28, 1833, is a son of Luther and Lydia Brown French. His pater- 
nal great-grandfather, Joseph French, of Concord, Mass., was a lieu- 
tenant in the Revolutionary war, and on his mother's side he is a lineal 
descendant of Chad Brown, of Providence, R. I., and also of Roger 
Williams. Mr. French attended district school, Clinton Liberal Insti- 
tute of Clinton, N. Y., and the Woodstock Academy of Woodstock, Vt., 
at which latter institution he was prepared for college. In 1859 he was 
graduated from Tufts College, Massachusetts, with the degree of Bach- 
elor of Arts, to which the honorary degree of A. M. has since been 
added; and after his graduation he became a member of the Phi Beta 
Kappa Society, with which he is still connected. 

His legal studies were pursued in the office of Hon. James B. Mc- 
Kean and Messrs. Pond & Lester, at Saratoga Springs. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar by the General Term of the .Supreme Court for the 
Fourth Judicial District in May, 1801, and has since been in continuous 
practice in Saratoga Springs except for a period of three years, when 
he served in the Union Army. From 1865 to 1888 Mr. French was in 
partnership with Hon. Alembert Pond, and during a portion of the time 
Hon. Edgar T. Brackett, now State senator, was a member of the firm. 
The practice carried on by the firm of Pond, French & Brackett was of 
a general character, extending to all the courts, and was very large and 
lucrative. 

ilr. I'^rench was elected district attorney of Saratoga county in 18(58 
and held the office for three years. He was jiressed by his party for 
renomination, but owing to the onerous duties and the large firm prac- 
tice, he was compelled to decline the honor. While serving as district 
attorney he caused the arrest of one Henry Ray, a member of the State 
Legislature, on an attachment issued under the direction of Mr. Justice 
Piatt Potter of the Supreme Court, for refusing to obey a subpojua, and 



^ ^v 




a;/ 





^^-^^^^r^ 




THE BENCH AND BAR. 139 

had him brought to the court house in Ballston Spa to testify in a crim- 
inal proceeding. This arrest occasioned great excitement in the Legis- 
lature,and out of it grew the famous Breach of Privilege Case, wherein 
the Legislature undertook but signally failed to establish the doctrine that 
the power of the Legislative branch of the government was superior to 
that of the Judicial. The case attracted widespread interest in the 
courts and among the legal profession throughout the country, and it is 
reported in the appendix to Barbour's Supreme Court Reports, Vol- 
ume 55. 

He withdrew from the firm of Pond, French & Brackett in 1888; 
since which time he has continued his practice alone, except for about 
.three years when Will W. Smith was associated with him, under the 
firm name of French & Smith, at his office Nos. 7 and 8 French Build- 
ing, Saratoga Springs. 

He has always been prominent before the courts and juries, and dem- 
onstrated the characteristics of a careful, painstaking lawyer; extremely 
loyal to his profession, and always displaying in his practice before 
courts and juries that dignity, and courtliness which so well become a 
gentleman and educated lawyer. 

Cornelius A. Waldron of Waterford was born July 23, 1829, and was 
admitted to the bar February 3, 1852. After spending fifteen months 
in the office of David L. Seymour at Tro}', he returned to Waterford 
and entered upon the practice of his profession in that village where he 
has since remained. In 1853 he was elected justice of the peace, in the 
following year served as justice of the sessions, and in 1855 was elected 
surrogate of Saratoga county, in which office he served with marked 
ability for a period of twenty two consecutive years. He still resides 
in Waterford and enjoys an extensive practice. 

Elias H. Peters of Saratoga has served in the office of surrogate for 
over twenty years, his record in that important office being one that re- 
flects credit upon him as a man and a lawyer. 

J. W. Houghton, who is now serving his third term as county judge, 
is regarded as one of the leaders of the bar of Saratoga county. His 
career on the bench has been marked by honest}- and marked ability. 
His legal attainments are such as to make him a conspicuous legal 
character in Saratoga. 

John L. Henning, for several years a law partner of Hon. John R. 
Putnam, also occupies a prominent place in the legal profession. He 
is well grounded in the principles of the law and has a wide reputa- 
tion as an orator. 



440 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

L. B. Pike has occupied a leading place among the legal fraternity 
of Saratoga Springs for years. He is considered one of the shrewdest 
barristers, and has been very successful in his practice. 

Among other well known and prominent advocates now in practice 
at Saratoga Springs are Charles H. Sturges, Charles M. Davison, 
Jesse Stiles, Nash Rockwood and James F. Swanick, now corporation 
counsel of Saratoga Springs. 

We omit to mention many of the younger lawyers of the county now 
engaged in practice therein. Their names will more appropriately 
appear in a subsequent history of the county. 

Many other attorneys of the county, now living or deceased, have 
attained more or less prominence, whom we have not mentioned, hav- 
ing been unable to obtain information sufficient to enable us to write a 
sketch of their lives. 



CHAPTER XVni. 
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 

Closely following the location of the first settlers of Saratoga county 
in their new homes came the "good physician " in nearly every com- 
munity. In many instances, perhaps, the pioneers were compelled to 
ride or drive many miles through the wilderness to secure the services 
of the '' men of medicine," but research into the pioneer histor}' of the 
county shows the names of a number of medical practitioners who 
braved the hardships of the wilderness to bring comfort and health to 
the sturdy inhabitants. Possibly some of these physicians maj' have 
come hither in the expectation of building for themselves a wealth- 
producing business; but if this is so, the majority of them were doomed 
to profound disappointment. There was nothing iu the nature of a 
bonanza in the necessarily laborious country practice of those days, and 
many of the early practitioners died quite as poor as they had lived. 

In the early years of the present century the State of New York, un- 
like Pennsylvania and the New England States, had done little or 
nothing in the way of encouraging science, and particularly the impor- 
tant science of medicine. Until the century was well advanced there 



THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 441 

was no school of medicine worthy of the name nearer than Philadel- 
phia or Boston. In rare instances only could young men afford to at- 
tend either of these schools for the purpose of qualifying themselves for 
the profession, no matter how brilliant might be the prospects of the 
future. This condition of things led to the prevailii;g custom among 
the younger aspirants for medical practice to enter the office of some 
physician already established in practice, read the science under his 
direction and counsel for two or three years, accompanying him on his 
professional visits in the meantime, and then enter upon the independ- 
ent practice of his profession. As laws then governing the admission 
and practice of physicians were practically worthless, few young men 
failed to attain the goal sought after two or three years of study of this 
character. The result was that some of the young practitioners of 
those days were poorly qualified to enter upon a successful medical 
career. 

But soon reforms in the profession began to be made, chiefly through 
the instrumentality of practitioners who beheld the mischief that was 
being wrought by inexperienced, thoughtless and incompetent physi- 
cians. In 1806 the State Legislature passed an act repealing former 
laws governing the practice, and authorizing a general State Medical 
society and county societies in each of the counties of the State. In 
accordance with the provisions of this act medical societies began to 
spring up in all parts of the State, and the elevation of the standard of 
this most important profession began. One of the first counties to take 
advantage of the privileges granted by the new law was the county of 
Saratoga. 

The Saratoga County Medical society was organized at the cotirt 
house at Ballston Spa in July, 1800, and existed until 1884, when most 
of the members united with the State society. The county organiza- 
tion then became extinct. A year later the Tri-County Medical society, 
organized many years later, also became e.xtinct. Since that time there 
has been no county organization of physicians, but in recent years a 
thriving local society has sprung up in Saratoga Springs, which includes 
in its membership several well-known physicians residing outside of 
that village. 

Those who attended the meeting for the organization of the the county 
society were : 

Drs. Daniel Bull, William Patrick. John Stearns, Asa C. Barney, Elisha Miles, 
Samuel Pitkin, William C. Lawrence, Hilly J. Clark, Thomas S. Littlefiekl, Daniel 



442 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Hicks, Elijah Porter, Alpheus Adams, Ephraim Childs, Jesse Seymour, Grant 
Powells, Samuel Davis, Isaac Finch and Francis Pixley. 

The first officers elected were as follows: 

President, Daniel Bull; vice-president, William Patrick; secretary, John Stearns; 
treasurer, Samuel Davis; censors, Elijah Porter, Asa C. Barney, Samuel Pitkin, 
Billy J. Clark, Ephraim Childs. 

This society flourished for over three-quarters of a century, and its 
membership during that period included nearly all the regular physi- 
cians in practice in Saratoga county, besides several residing outside 
the county. In addition to those physicians already mentioned, the 
foHovving were included among the members of this organization: 

Beroth Bullard of Saratoga Springs, now Greenfield; John H. Steel, Saratoga 
Springs; Josiah Pulling, Galway; Nathan Thompson, Galway; Oliver Brisbin, 
Schuylerville; Samuel Freeman, Ballston Spa, afterwards of Saratoga Springs; John 
D. Bull, Stillwater; Henry Reynolds, Northumberland, afterwards of Wilton; 
Wm. Tibbitts, Mechanicville; Silas Wood, Abel Baldwin; Darius Johnson, Greenfield; 
Geo. Burroughs. Gideon Thompson, Isaac Youngs; B. W. Noxon, F. A. Sherman, Lev- 
erett Moore. Morgan Lewis, Ballston Spa; J. G. Bacon, C. C. Bedell, Frank M. Boyce, 
M. H. Colby. C. E. Creal, Charles S. Grant, William H. Hall, W. H. Hodgman, R. 

C. McEwen, L. B. Putnam. Tabor B. Reynolds, G. D. Van Vranken, Saratoga 
Springs; Chauncey Boughton, P. T. Heartt, Waterford;N. H. Ballou, C. W. Ensign, 
Frank Garbutt, Mechanicville; C. D. Bull, Stillwater; A. B. Burger. Gansevoort; 

D. R. Burrus, Burnt Hills; H. C. Cooper, Clifton Park; Frank Gow, Schuylerville; 
N. M. Houghton, Corinth; lanthus G. Johnson, Greenfield Centre; Byron J. Murray, 
Wilton (now of Saratoga Springs); Truman E. Parkman, Rock City Falls; J. R. 
Preston, Schuylerville; Calvin Preston, Galway; S. N. Rowell, Malta; Abram Van 
Woert, Amity; T. A. Young, West Charlton; J. M. Austin, M. N. Babcock, G. S. 
Beckwith, T. D. Crothers, H. L. Hammond, PL W. Steenburgh, S. H. Freeman, 
J. H. Allen, R. L. Allen, C. H. Andrus, P. P. Atwell, Israel Youngs, Newell Wright, 
Ira Wright, J. W. Williams, C. H. Wetmore, David Wells, Isaac W. Weed, A. B. 
Webber, J. W. Walls, J. L. Perry, J. C. Perr\'.-"Samirel Peters. Stephen Potter, 
James Porter, E. H. Porter, D. L. Porter, S. Porter, W. P. Porter, M. L. Bryan, 
William Carey, Cyril Carpenter, Abner Carpenter, A. J, Chadsey, Jason Bannister, 
J. W. Childs. A. F. Childs, Theodore Barnum, William Chambers, J. J. Burrus, 
Hiram Baxter, J. B. Colby. G. H. Benham, John Cole, J. W. Pedrom. A. W. Van 
Woert, William Pearce, Timothy LTphani, A. K. Underbill, Booth Northrup, S. M. 
Tracy, M. L. North. Cave Torrey, E. Mulford, F. Tourtelot, Walter Mott, G. Thomp- 
son, Avery Benedict, E. G. Crandall, Stephen Bent, E. F. Crandell, John Bennett, 
D. W. Culver. Abram Berry, Oliver Davidson, S. Billings, David Boyd, R. R. Davis. 
Roswell Day. C. B. Brown, Josiah Dean, Samuel McLeary, W. H. McLean. C. N. 
Thompson, F. M. Martin, James Thomas, W. M. Millard. William Tippet, Martin 
Tinker. N. F. Bruce, R. Derbyshire, J. C. Defreest, J. D. Bull, Edward Dickinson, 
Ira Dimmick, Samuel Drake, David Low. H. D. Losee. Miles Taylor, Thomas 
Littlefield, James Lee, E. St. John, M. D. Lathrop, Ira Straing, Jesse Everett. Grant 



THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 443 

Powell, M. L. Finch, J. M. Fiske, O. P. Raymond, Asa Fitch, John Rathbun, James 
Langworlhy, H. J. Landon. John Kinley, A. J. Spencer, John King, James Spencer, 
P. Fletcher S. Freeman, J. H. Reynolds, S. Gaylord, R. R. Richards, Archibald 
Gow, Francis Rixby, N. J. Green, B. M. Keeney, L. H. Sprague, T. E. Johnson, 
Peter Sprague, L. Sprague, G. F. Johnson, Joseph SafFord, Henry Griswold, L. D. 
Sabin, Oliver Goodrich, John Saile. Silas Hamilton, William Savage. J. Howard, 
D. Shnmway, John Higgins, J. W. Smith, M. D. Hicks, D. S. Shelton, John Haight, 
R. H. Hart, Henry Saunders, W. K. Scott, Ira Hatch, Isaac Sears, F. B. Hicks, 
William Shaw, D. Sherman, D. J. Hewitt, S. M. Simpson. 

After the dissolution of the Saratoga County Medical society in 1884 
no organization of the profession existed in this county until October, 
1895, when the regular practitioners in Saratoga Springs organized a 
local society known as the Medical Society of Saratoga vSprings. This 
organization has become very flourishing. The following are the i)res- 
ent members of the society: 

J. J. Callahan, George T. Church, George F. Comstock, C. E. Creal, E. Valencourt 
Deuell, William H. Hall, A. He.witt, William H. Hodgman, J. F. Humphrey. Erwin 
G. Inlay, J. B. Ledlie, D. C. Moriarta, Byron J. Murray, Tabor B. Reynolds, F. J. 
Resseguie, William E. Swan, Arthur A. Swanick, A. W. Thompson, Miles E. 
Varney, Saratoga Springs; Frank J. Sherman, James T. Sweetman, jr., Ballston 
Spa; R. A. Ileenan. J. T. Park, Sandy Hill; J. S- White. South Glens Falls; H. M. 
Lincoln. Wilton; H. O. Fairweather, Troy; Dr. Mallory, Corinth: Dr. Melick, Fort 
Edward. 

In 1863 the homoeopathic medical practitioners of Saratoga county 
organized the Homoeopathic Medical Society of Saratoga county, an 
organization which flourished for several years. Among the prominent 
physicians who were connected with this society were Dr. Zina Clement 
of vSaratoga Springs; Dr. B. F. Cornell who, though a resident of Fort 
Edward, enjoyed an extensive practice in this county; Dr. S. J. Pear- 
sail and Dr. Thomas E. Allen, of Saratoga Springs; Dr. J. F. Doolittle, 
who is still in practice in Ballston .Spa; Dr. A. G. Peckham of Water- 
ford and Dr. William E. Rogers of Rexford's Flats. 

Perhaps the most widely known of the pioneer physicians of Saratoga 
county was Dr. Billy J. Clark, who located in 1799 in that part of the 
town of Moreau which afterward was called Clark's Corners, in his 
honor. For many years Dr. Wicker, who resided in Easton, Washing- 
ton county, cared for the sick in a large part of the eastern section of 
Saratoga county. Billy J. Clark had been studying with Dr. Wicker 
for some two or three years, and when the young student had become 
fitted for the practice of his profession, his preceptor advised him to 
locate in Moreau, where the population was rapidly increasing. 



444 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Few men in those days wielded so wide and potent an influence as 
Dr. Clark. His practice soon became exceedinglj^ laborious, and a 
very large share of it was performed in the name of charity. It was 
said of Dr. Clark that he never made out a bill against any person 
whom he knew to be unable to pay without pecuniary erabarassment ; 
but on the other hand he never refused to respond to a call, whether 
the prospective patient were rich or poor. His mission was to do good, 
not to accumulate wealth. 

Dr. Clark was the founder of one of the most powerful temperance 
societies which ever existed in this section of New York State. This 
was known as the " Moreau and Northumberland Temperance society, " 
and was founded in Moreau in ISOS, chiefly through the instrumentality 
of this noted physician, missionary and minster to the wants of the 
afflicted. Tn his iiractice he had daily witnessed the terrible physical 
and moral ruin wrouglit by intemperance, and was thereby aroused to 
tlie necessity of making an effort to stay the progress of the evil. Dr. 
Bull, then sheriff of the county, co-operated with him, and though they 
were denounced by most persons as visionary enthusiasts, they not only 
succeeded in enlisting the active co-operation of many of the most 
prominent and influential men in the county, but the subsequent work 
of the society resulted in the accomplishment of a tremendous amount of 
good, and the planting of the germs of a reform movement which after- 
ward swept over the entire country. 

Dr. Clark was interested in public affairs generally; but though fre- 
quently importuned to accept public office he uniformly declined, ex- 
cepting during the j'ears 1809 and 1831, when he was chosen to repre- 
sent the town of Moreau in the board of supervisors. 

Dr. Littlefield was in practice in Moreau during the career of the 
celebrated Dr. Clark, and for many years enjoyed an extensive and 
lucrative practice. 

The earliest physician to locate in the village of Saratoga Springs 
probably was Dr. Clement Blakesley, who married Theodosia, daugh- 
ter of Benjamin Risley. Dr. Blakesley remained here many years and 
became one of the most successful practitioners in the county. Dr. Cyril 
Carpenter was also a very early practitioner, his office being located on 
the site of the United States hotel. 

Dr. John H. Steel, who began practice in Saratoga Springs early in 
the present century, occupied a position of great prominence, and is en- 
titled to more than passing reference. Dr. Steel was born in Leicester, 



THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 445 

Mass., in 1780, the son of Samuel and Anne Garfield Steel. His grand- 
father, .Samuel vSteel, was a judge of the county court; his great-grand- 
father, Thomas vSteel, was also a judge; and his great-great-grand- 
father, Thomas Steel, who emigrated from England to Boston, was a 
descendant of William Steel, magistrate, counselor, recorder of Lon- 
don, baronet and lord lieutenant of Ireland. 

Dr. Steel read medicine with Dr. Daniel Bull of Saratoga Springs. 
In 180S he became a member of the Saratoga County Medical society, 
and during every year from 1808 to 1832 held office in that organiza- 
tion. He also served as president of the New York State Medical so- 
ciety; was appointed surgeon of the Fourth New York Cavalry, mustered 
into service for the war of 1812; was assistant surgeon on an American 
man-of-war, and was present at the bombardment of Algiers in 181.5; 
and also served as a surgeon in the New York JBtate militia. Later in 
life he became judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and also served as 
postmaster of Saratoga Springs, and president of that vilhige from its 
incorporation in 1820 to 183G. lie was an official member of the Al- 
bany Lyceum of Natural History, and either an honorary or correspond- 
ing member of every scientific and historical association of note in 
North America, besides many in Europe. lie was an authority on the 
history of Saratoga county up to within a short time before his death, 
which occurred in 1838. In 1817 he published " Some Observations on 
the Mineral Waters of Saratoga and Ballston," and in 1831 published a 
larger work, entitled " An Analysis of the Mineral Waters of Saratoga 
and Ballston." His widow, who was Mary Taylor, a sister of Hon. 
Miles Taylor, died in 1872. Dr. Steel was always devoted to his pro- 
fession, and widely respected and beloved. 

Dr. Daniel Bull, Dr. Steel's preceptor, for many years enjoyed an 
extensive practice in Saratoga Springs and vicinity. He was a man of 
grand character and interested in many movements for the public weal. 

Dr. R. L. Allen was in practice in Saratoga Springs for many years 
in the first half of the centur)'. He was for a long time a leading mem- 
ber of the county medical society, and in 18-14 published the first 
edition of "A Historical, Chemical and Therapeutical Analysis of the 
Principal Mineral Waters of .Saratoga Springs." 

Dr. John Clark was a leading physician at the Springs early in the 
century. It was he who made the first successful attempt to furnish 
the village with an adequate supply of water by a conduit system. He 
erected a water tower about fifty feet high in what is now Congress 



.140 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Spring park, raising the water by pumps to the top of this structure 
and allowing gravity to carry it through wooden conduits through the 
village. This was in 1832, and for fifteen years this was the only 
waterworks system at the Springs. 

Dr. Samuel Davis, who came to Ballston Spa in 1700, at the age of 
twenty-five years, probably was the first physician to engage in prac- 
tice in that village. He was born at East Hampton, Long Island, in 
1765, and studied medicine with Dr. Turner, of Stonington, Conn., 
one of the most distinguished physicians and surgeons of his day. He 
first practiced in Schoharie county, N. Y., but afterwards removed to 
Ballston Spa, where he continued to practice for half a century. He 
was possessed of great skill and won the confidence and esteem of all 
with whom he came in contact. 

Dr. Samuel Freeman began his professional career in Ballston Spa 
about 1815 and continued in practice in that village for a quarter of a 
century. He was a conspicuous member of the county medical society 
and enjoyed a large and lucrative practice. 

Dr. Leverett Moore was born December 9, 1805, at Palmer, Mass., 
and was graduated from the medical college at Pittsfield, Mass., in 
December, 1829. After practicing a short time in Ulster county, N. 
Y. , he removed to Albany, then to Greenbush, and finally, in 1810, he 
located at Ballston Spa, succeeding Dr Samuel Freeman. He with- 
drew from active practice about 1880, dying some eight or nine years 
later, after having filled, for a period of about forty years, a place in 
the ranks of the profession attained by few local practitioners. He 
was universally esteemed, not only as a physician, but as a man of 
great worth. For many years he was the secretary of the county so- 
ciety. 

Dr. Elisha Miller, who came from Westchester county in 1770 and 
settled on the east side of Ballston lake, was the earliest physician to 
engage in practice in the town of Ballston, where he became a man of 
great prominence. He was a man of varied acquirements, and a large 
property holder. During the Revolution he removed his family to 
vSchenectady, but returned himself to attend to his many patients. His 
life was a long, active and exceedingly useful one. 

Among the prominent early physicians of the town of Saratoga were 
Drs. Bull, Bryant, Dean, Smith, Brisbin, Pierce, Copp, Dimmick and 
Billings. Dr. Samuel Tenney, a regimental surgeon stationed in town 
in 1783, was the first physician to call the attention of the medical faculty 



■ THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 447 

to the medicinal properties of the Saratoga spring waters. He addressed 
a letter upon the subject to Dr. Joshua Fisher of Boston, which was pub- 
lished in the Memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences 
(1793). 

Dr. Robert Patrick was one of the earliest physicians to locate in the 
town of Stillwater. Dr. Ephraim Otis, who resided at Quaker Springs, 
also practiced extensively in town. Dr. William Patrick was also in 
practice many years. His son, Dr. William Patrick, jr., succeeded him. 

Dr. German was the first medical practitioner to locate in Halfmoon, 
as nearly as can be ascertained. His home was on the river road, and 
his practice extended many miles in all directions and on both sides of 
the Hudson. Dr. Sabin and Dr. Shaw succeeded him in practice. All 
were well known and devoted to their profession. Dr. Tibbets probably 
was the first physician at Mechanicville, as early as 1832. Dr. Guerdon 
kept a tavern near that point as early as 1788, but whether he was a 
practicing physician is not known. 

Dr. Francis Pixley was among the first physicians in Galway, prolia- 
bly the first. For years he was identified with the county medical so- 
ciety. He rode thousands of miles annually over the central and west- 
ern parts of the county. 

Dr. Gaylor, who located before 1800 in the Partridge neighborhood 
in Edinburgh, was the earliest practitioner in that town. Dr. Edson 
was an early physician in the Washburn neighborhood. 

In the town of Gorinth Dr. AsaC. Barney is recorded as having been 
the first to engage in the practice of medicine. He followed that pro- 
fession for many years, and was very successful. His ride was wide 
and frequently very exhausting, and during his long career he seemed 
to take advantage of every opportunit}- to do good, especially among 
the poorer classes, without a thought of reward. He was a "good 
physician " in all that the word implies. 

Among the earliest physicians in Northumberland were Dr. Collins, 
Dr. Reynolds and Dr. Jesse Billings. The latter became a man of 
wealth and influence. These physicians did not confine their practice 
to Northumberland, but frequently rode to the furthest limits of Mo- 
reau and Old Saratoga on their errands of mercy. 

Dr. Youngs was the earliest doctor in Greenfield of whom anything 
is known. Dr. Asa G. Barney also practiced extensively in this town. 
Dr. Johnson, father of Dr. lanthusG. Johnson of Greenfield and grand- 
father of Dr. Arthur W. Johnson of Mechanicville, was also a success- 



448 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

fill practitioner in the early days. Three of his sons, G. Fordyce, L. 
B. W. and lanthus G. , were successful physicians. The latter is still 
practicing in town. He is a prominent Mason, and in 18G3 and 1804 
was a member of the board of supervisors of Saratoga county. 

Probably the first physician in Wilton was Dr. Timothy Bloodworlh. 
Dr. Vail, Dr. Henry Reynolds and Dr. John Floyd Williams were also 
in practice there very early. 

Dr. McClary, who lived at Amity, was in practice in Clifton Park 
early in the century. He followed his profession for more than thirty 
years and was very widely known. Dr. Wa"de, though residing in 
Watervliet, Albany county, enjoyed an extensive practice in this town. 
He was a contempotary of Dr. McClary. 

Dr. Wood, Dr. Henderson and Dr. Gregory were among the early 
practitioners in the town of Milton outside of Ballston Spa. Little is 
known of them. 

Dr. Josiah Pulling, who lived near York's Corners, is still remem- 
bered by many of the older inhabitants as an early medical practitioner 
in the town of Providence. 

Dr. Mitchell, Dr. Langdon Marvin, Dr. Alva Wood and Dr. Max- 
well, though residing in Northampton, Fulton county, practiced exten- 
sively in the northwestern part of Saratoga county in the early daj^s of 
the century. Dr. Lemuel D. Sabin, of Edinburgh, was a contempo- 
rary of Dr. Mitchell. 

We have endeavored thus far to record the names of some of the 
most prominent physicians who were either pioneers in the practice of 
their profession in Saratoga county, or who closely succeeded the first 
established practitioners. The remainder of this chapter will be de- 
voted largely to personal mention of some of the more conspicuous 
representatives of the profession in this county who are remembered 
by the living generations, as well as those who are engaged in practice 
at the present time. 

The nestor of the profession in Saratoga county is Tabor B. Rey- 
nolds, M. D., who is still practicing in Saratoga Springs, in the seventy- 
eighth year of his age. Dr. Reynolds was born in Wilton, April 8, 
1821. After acquiring an academic education he began studying the 
science of medicine with his father, Dr. Henry Reynolds of Wilton, 
continuing under Drs. March and Armsby at Albany, and being grad- 
uated from the Albany Medical college in February, 1842. He began 
practice with his father and brother in Wilton. His father died in 




EDWARD V. DEUELL, M. D. 




GEORGl;- F Cf^MSTOCK, M. h. 



TME MEDICAL PROFESSION. 449 

1857 and his brother, Dr. John Henry Reynolds, in 18T0, and in the 
latter year he removed to Saratoga Springs. His eminent skill as a 
physician, his high character and genial qualities have endeared him to 
all who know him. His practice has always been heavy and lucrative. 
For many years he was an honored member of the Saratoga Medical 
society, of which he was president in 1857. The year following he was 
elected a permanent member of the New York State Medical society, 
and in ISGO a member of the American Medical association. In 1872 
he was chosen president of the Union Medical association of Washing- 
ton, Warren and Saratoga counties. 

During the early part of his career Dr. Reynolds was frequently 
called to serve in responsible public offices. While a resident of Wil- 
ton he was chosen town superintendent of schools, serving in that 
capacity from 1847 to 1852. In 185G and 1857, and again from 1863 to 
18G7, he represented Wilton in the board of supervisors. In 1857 he 
was elected to the Assembly by the Democrats and Americans, but 
after the war of the Rebellion he became a Republican. In 1867 he 
was elected sheriff of the county, serving three years. Since his re- 
tirement from public life in 1870 he had devoted himself to the practice 
of his profession, but in recent years has laid off much of the more 
onerous part of his labor in that calling. 

Charles S. Grant, M. D., of Saratoga Springs, for years has occupied 
an enviable position among the medical fraternity of the United States. 
He is renowned for his great skill in the treatment of diseases, and has 
numbered among his patients men and women from every section of 
the United States, and many from foreign lands, who have sought 
health in Saratoga Springs. Dr. Grant was born in Delaware county, 
N. Y., and after pursuing a classical course was graduated from the 
Albany Medical college. In 1867 he began practice in Saratoga 
Springs, where he has since remained. Dr. Grant has a national repu- 
tation for wonderful skill, and his success has been such as falls to the 
lot of few practitioners in the field of medicine. 

William H. Hall, M. D., of Saratoga Springs was born in New York 
city. After attending the Brooklyn City academy he entered the medi- 
cal department of the University of the City of New York, from which he 
graduated in 1859. He then studied for a while in Paris. Upon the be- 
ginning of the Rebellion he enlisted as assistant surgeon in the Thirty- 
si.xth New York Volunteers, serving through the war. He then began 
practice at Rutherford Park, and in 1873 removed to Saratoga Springs, 

29 



450 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

where he has since remained. Dr. Hall is secretary of the United States 
pension board, medical director of the State department of the G. A. R. , 
a member of the New York State Medical society, of the Climatological 
Society of the United States and of the local society. He occupies a high 
place in the ranks of the medical profession. 

E. Valencourt Deuell, M. D., was born in Malta in 18.'?0. After a 
course of three years in Union college he was graduated with the degree 
of M. D. from Louisville, Ky., university in 1863, immediately there- 
after becoming surgeon in General Steele's division. During the closing 
years of the war he was surgeon in charge of the hospital at Little 
Rock, Ark., and was surgeon-in- chief for the district of Arkansas from 
1867 to 1869. From 1869 to 1889 he practiced in Little Rock, then re- 
moved to Saratoga Springs, where he has since practiced. He is the 
author of "Treatment of Cholera by Strychnia in One-Tenth Grain 
Doses." In 1866 he was officially commended by General J. K. Barnes 
for his success and devotion to duty, having remained at his post 
through the cholera scourge at Little Rock, though deserted by his 
assistant .surgeons. 

Frederick H. Stevens, M. D., was born in New Haven, Conn., 
studied medicine at Crown Point and was graduated from the Castleton 
Medical college (now the Burlington Medical college) in 1851. He 
practiced at Newark, N. J., and Lake George, N. Y., settling in vSara- 
toga Springs in 1891, where he has met with splendid success. 

Arthur L. Churchill, M. D., is a native of Saratoga Springs. He is 
a graduate of the Eclectic college of New York, class of 1883, and be- 
gan practicing at Glenville, Schenectady county. Subsequently he re- 
moved to Saratoga Springs, where he has since enjoyed a large prac- 
tice. He is now secretary of the local board of health and a member 
of the hospital corps. 

George F. Comstock, M. D., was born in Moreau in 1861, studied 
with James Tomlinson, M. D., of New York, and was graduated in 
1 883 from the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons. Since 
that time he has been in practice in Saratoga Springs. 

Miles E. Varney, M. D., was born in Luzerne, N. Y., and was grad- 
uated from the University of Vermont with the degree of M. D. in 
1889. He began practice in South Glens Falls. In 1893 he was elected 
coroner on the Republican ticket, being re-elected in 1895. He has re- 
sided in Saratoga Springs since 189-1. 

C. E. Creal, M. D., of Saratoga Springs, attended the Saratoga High 




MILES EGBERT VARNEY, M. U. 



f^i^ ---- 




BYRON J. MURRAY, M. D. 



THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 451 

School and the Fort Edward Collegiate Institute, and was graduated 
from the College of Physicians and vSurgeons of New York city in 
1877. For ten years thereafter he was engaged in practice in Saratoga 
Springs, during which time he served two terms, from 1S80 to 1887, as 
coroner. He also served five years as town ph^'sician. In 188? he re- 
moved t(j Kansas City, Mo., where he became a registered pharmacist. 
In 1896 he returned to vSaratoga Springs, where he has since been en- 
gaged in practice. 

B)-ron J. Murray, ]\I. D., for many years has been a highl}' success- 
ful practitioner in Saratoga Springs. He served for some time as sec- 
retary of the Saratoga County Medical societ}-, and held that office at the 
time the society disbanded. Dr. Murray occupies a prominent place in 
the ranks of the profession. 

Erwin G. Inlay, M. D., was graduated from Dartmouth Medical col- 
lege October 29, 1878. In January, 1879, he located for practice at 
Conklingville, and in 1885 removed to Saratoga Springs, where he has 
since resided. Dr. Inlay has attained a conspicuous position in the 
ranks of his profession. 

Nathaniel M. Houghton, M. D., for many years a widely known and 
highly esteemed physician of the town of Corinth, was born in that 
town January 23, 1816. At the age of twenty-four years he began the 
study of medicine with his uncle, Dr. Mitchell, completing his studies 
in the Castleton, Vl., Medical college, from which he was graduated in 
1843. After practicing with great success in his native town for ten 
years ill health compelled him to abandon his profession, and he turned 
his attention to lumbering and farming. He filled several important 
offices, having been superintendent of schools for Corinth for several 
terms, supervisor several years and a member of assembly four terms. 

Dr. Babcock, deceased, for many y^ears in practice in Saratoga 
Springs, was one of the strong men in the profession, and was cele- 
brated over d wide territory as a physician and surgeon. 

The late Robert C. McEwen, M. D., was numbered among the most 
representative men in his profession in Saratoga county. He was born 
October 15, 1833, at Bainbridge, N. Y., was graduated from Williams 
College in 1853, and in 1854 took his first course of medical lectures in 
the medical department of Yale University. For nearly two years 
thereafter he was a student in the office of Prof. J. M. Smith, in New 
York, and in 1856 was graduated from the New York College of Phy- 
sicians and Surgeons. In October, 1857, he was appointed assistant on 



452 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the house staff of Bellevue hospital in New York, subsequently occupy- 
ing the positions of senior assistant and house physician. After a trip 
to South America, where he received a commission as surgeon in the 
British service, he returned to New England in 1860 and practiced at 
Stratford Conn., until August, 1862, when he was commissioned first 
assistant surgeon of the Seventeenth Connecticut Volunteers. He re- 
mained in the service until September, 1863, when he located in New 
York. In 1866 he removed to Saratoga Springs, where he practiced 
imtil the time of his death. 

Samuel J. Pearsall, M. D., was born in Wilton May IS, 183.3. In 
1856 he came to Saratoga Springs and began the study of medicine with 
Drs. Eaton and Mitchell and in the fall of that year entered the Ho- 
moeopathic Medical College at Philadelphia, where he was graduated 
in March, 1858. On May 1, following he entered upon the practice of 
homoeopathy in Saratoga Springs, where he soon became very suc- 
cessful, despite the fact that homoeopathy was then new and he had 
many obstacles to surmount. He is now one of the best known ho- 
moeopathic practitioners in Northern New York. 

Dr. John K. Anderson was born in Edinburgh April 19, 1818. The 
earlier part of his life was spent in teaching, but he afterwai-d became 
a successful homoeopathic practitioner in Saratoga and Schoharie coun- 
ties, N. Y. He practiced some time in Batchellerville, retiring on 
account of advancing years in 1895. 

James T. Sweetman, M. D., was born and received his elementary 
education in the town of Charlton. After brief residences at Manches- 
ter, Vt., and in Jefferson county, N. Y., early in 1865 he was appointed 
by the governor a member of the New York State military agency at 
Washington. While there he accepted a clerkship in the Treasury 
Department. After reading medicine with Drs. Eliott and Thompson 
he was graduated from the University of Georgetown in the class of 
1870; then practiced medicine for sixteen years in Washington, when 
he retired from active work in his profession and returned to his native 
town, where he still resides. He has been secretary and treasurer of 
the Charlton Industrial Farm school for boys since its organization. 

Arthur W. Johnson, M. D., comes of a family of physicians, his 
grandfather, father and two uncles having been honored and successful 
representatives of the profession. He was graduated from the Albany 
Medical college in March, 1887, after which he served for eighteen 
months as interne in the New York Skin and Cancer hospital. Then 



THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. 453 

for a year he was ship surgeon on the Finance and Seguranca of the 
U. S. & Brazil Mail S. S. line. In 1893 he formed a partnership with 
his father, Dr. I. G. Johnson, at Greenfield Centre, N. Y. In Febru- 
ary, 1894, he located in Mechanicville, where he still resides. 

W. C. Crombie, M. D., was born February 11, 1855, in Fulton, N.Y. ; 
was graduated from the Albany Medical college in 1879, and imme- 
diately located in Schaghticoke, N. Y. In March, 1891, he removed to 
Mechanicville, where he has built up a fine practice. 

William Van Doren, M. D., is a native of New Brunswick, N. J., and 
a graduate of the Albany Medical college, in the class of 1889. His 
practice in Mechanicville dates from the year 1891. 

Frank Garbutt, M. I)., was born in England in 1847, received his 
preliminary education at King Edward grammar school at Beverly, 
Yorkshire, matriculated at Durham university in 18GG, studied medi- 
cine at the Newcastle-on-Tyne College of Medicine for three years, 
then came to this country. After two years of travel he entered the 
Albany Medical college, from which he was graduated in 1872. He 
has enjoyed a lucrative practice in Mechanicville since 1872. 

F. A. Palmer, M. D., was born in Lee, Mass., in 1S58, and began 
the study of medicine twenty years later under the guidance of Dr. E. 
M. Draper of Ilion, N. Y., continuing it in the office of Dr. William 
Hailes in Albany. He received his diploma in 1882, and after a year's 
post-graduate study settled in Mechanicville, where he has since been 
located. 

J. J. Dunlap, M. D. , who has been in practice many years in the 
village of Waterford, is recognized as one of the most successful prac- 
titioners in that part of the county. 

J. D. Sherer, M. D., was born at Rondout, N. Y., in 185G. After 
attending school at Rondout and Waterford, he was graduated from 
the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania in ISSO, 
since which time he has been engaged in practice at Waterford. 

Edgar Zeh, M. D., was born at Gallupville, N. Y., in I860. He at- 
tended the Classical Institute at Schenectady, and was graduated from 
the Albany Medical College in 1884. Since 1885 he has enjoyed a con- 
stantly increasing practice at Waterford. 

Newton C. Harris, M. D., an active and successful physician and 
surgeon of forty years' experience, was born in Townshend, Windham 
county, Vt., May 12, 1833. He received his education in the public 
schools and in Leland Seminary of Townshend. His professional 



454 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

course was taken at Woodstock Medical College, Vt., and Albany Med- 
ical College, from which he was graduated December 22, 1857. He 
has been located in Schuylerville for many years. 

S. M. Roods, M. D., is a graduate of the Troy Conference Academy 
and the Albany Medical College. He has been practicing in Conkling- 
ville with success since 1892. 

Drs. J. J. Montgomery and Hamilton Holliday of Luzerne, Warren 
county, practice extensively in Hadley and other parts of Saratoga 
county. Dr. Johnson, for many years in practice at that point, is now 
living in retirement. 

H. J. Allen, M. D., born in Corinth in 1854, was graduated from the 
medical department of the University of Vermont in 1881, since which 
time he has enjoyed a lucrative practice in his native town. 

Dr. H. W. Lawrence, who died about ten years ago, was for many 
years one of the leading practitioners of Ballston Spa. Dr. F. A. 
Sherman, who in recent years has been living in practical retirement 
from active labor, also had a most successful career, extending over a 
long term of years. His son, Dr. Frank J. Sherman, has succeeded to 
his practice, and has attained a high position in the ranks of the pro- 
fession. Dr. Eben S. Lawrence, the younger brother of the late Dr. 
H. W. Lawrence, succeeded to the practice of the latter upon his death, 
and is recognized as one of the most successful physicians and surgeons 
in the county. He has been president of the village of Ballston Spa 
and is a man of public spirit. Dr. J. F. Doulittle has been in practice 
in that village for many years. He belongs to the homoeopathic school. 
Dr. T. Cook Royal, also a homoeopathic practitioner, enjoys a success- 
ful and lucrative practice. Dr. James T. Sweetman, jr., son of Dr. 
James T. Sweetman of Charlton, and Dr. E. S. Coyle complete the list 
of practicing physicians at the county seat. Dr. French, of the homoeo- 
pathic school, now a resident of Chattanooga, Tenn., for several years 
practiced in Ballston Spa, a contemporary of Dr. H. W. Lawrence and 
Dr. F. A. Sherman. 

Dr. Pierson C. Curtis, who has been in practice at Round Lake for 
several years, enjoys a high standing among the medical fraternity as a 
most careful practitioner. His progressive spirit is illustrated by the 
fact that he annually takes a post-graduate course of lectures in New 
York city. He has served as coroner for the lower district of Saratoga 
county. His practice extends for several miles in every direction from 
Round Lake. 



CIVIL LIST. 455 

Drs. Frank F. Gow, N. C. Harris, W. B. Webster, T. E. Bullartl and 
J. A. Hammond are now in practice at Schuylerville. 

Dr. Charles B. Mallery of Corinth devotes much of his time to sur- 
gical work. Dr. F. A. Smith is also in practice there. 

Dr. Roland H. Stubbs of Waterford has been in practice several years. 
He has served as coroner for the southern district of the county. Drs. 
Lawrence Kenney and A. G. Peckham are also located in that village. 
Dr. J. S. White is established at South Glens Falls, and Dr. H. M. 
Lincoln at Wilton. 



CHAPTER XIK. 

CIVIL LIST AND STATISTICS. 
The Courts. 

Court of Common Pleas a7id General Sessions of Peace, and Members of the 
Court of Oyer and Terminer of Saratoga County : 

First Judges of Common Pleas. — 1791, John Thompson; 1809, Salmon Child; 
1818, James Thompson ; 1833, Samuel Young; 1838, Thomas J. Marvin. 

fudges of Common Pleas. — 1791, James Gordon, Jacobus Van Schoonhoven, Be- 
riah Palmer, Sidney Berry; 1793, Adam Comstock ; 1794, Epenetus White; 1803, 
Samuel Clark; 1806, John Taylor, John McClelland; 1809, John Stearns, Nathaniel 
Ketchum; 1811, William Still well, Samuel Drake; 1812, Benjamin Cowles; 1813, 
Ashbel Andrews, William Patrick, jr., Elisha Powell, Ziba Taylor, John M. Berry. 
Abner Carpenter, Abraham Moe ; 1815, Thomas Laing, Avery Starkweather; 1817, 
Thomas Dibble, Herman Gansevoort; 1818,' Salmon Child, Abraham Moe, James 
McCrea, John Prior; 1820, Samuel Cook, James Van Schoonhoven; 1831, Harvey 
Granger; 18-33, Guert Van Schoonhoven, John H. Steel; 1820, Nicholas B. Doe; 1829, 
George Palmer; 1836, Thomas J. Marvin; 1838, George G. Scott; 1841. Seymour St. 
John; 1843, Lewis Stone; 1845, William L. F. Warren; 1846, Joshua Mandeville. 

Justices of the Peace who were Appointed Assislatit fustices of the Court of 
Common Pleas. — 1791, Andrew Mitchell, Epenetus White, Eliphalet Kellogg, Balls- 
ton; Samuel Clark, Stillwater; Adrian Hegeman, Halfmoon ; John Vernam, Arch- 
ibald McNeal. 1793, Adam Comstock, Greenfield. 1794, Eliphalet Kellogg, Balls- 
ton; Samuel Clark, Samuel Bacon, Elias Palmer, Stillwater; Benjamin Rosekrans, 
Richard Davis, jr., Halfmoon; John Ball, Milton. 1795, Cornelius Vandenburgh, 
Stillwater. 1797, Samuel Clark, Elias Palmer. Stillwater; Eliphalet Kellogg, Henry 
Walton, Ballston; Benjamin Rosekrans, Richard Davis, jr., Halfmoon; John Ball, 

" Prior to 1818 the number of judges was unlimited by statute, lu that year the Legislature 
passed a law limiting the number to live, ini;Uidiug the first judge. 



456 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Milton. 1798, ("niert Van Sclioonhoven, Halfmoon. 1800, Samuel Clark, Elias 
Palmer, .Stillwater; Beniamin Rosekrans. Richard Davis, jr., Halfmoon; Henry 
Walton, Ballston. 1803, Samuel Clark, Malta; Henry Walton, Ballston; Elias 
Palmer, Stillwater; John McClelland, James Warren, Galway ; John Taylor, Charl- 
ton; Daniel Bull, Saratoga. ISO.'), Thomas Rogers, Moreau. 1800, Samuel Clark, 
Malta; John Taylor, Charlton; John McClelland, James Warren, Galway; Henry 
Walton, Ballston; Elias Palmer. John Neilson, Stillwater; Thomas Rogers, Moreau. 
1809, John Neilson, George Palmer, jr., Stillwater; Jahn McClelland, Galway; Joel 
Lee, Milton. 1813, John Neilson, George Palmer, jr., Stillwater; Samuel Young, 
Ballston; Thomas Palmer, Milton; James Brisbin, jr., Saratoga; Calvin Wheeler, 
Providence; Thomas Laing, Wilton; Nicholas W. Angle, Moreau. 1813, Joseph 
Blackleach, Greenfield; John Metcalf, Northumberlatid; Samuel G. Huntington, 
Halfmoon; Samuel De Forest, William W. Morris, Ballston; John Neilson, Stillwater. 
1814, Isaac Garnsey, Halfmoon. 1815, George Palmer, Stillwater; Esek Cowen, 
Harvey Granger, Saratoga; Thomas Palmer, Milton; N. W. Angle, Moreau; Perez 
Otis, Galway; Timothy Brown, Hadley; Caleb Holmes, Charlton. 

Justices of the Peace for Sessions. — 1847-1849, Abel A. Kellogg, William T. 
Seymour; 1850, Daniel W. Wait, David Maxwell; 1851, D. W. Wait, Thomas G. 
Young; 1853, D. W. Wait, John Giflford; 1853, William Wilson, Samuel B. Edwards; 
1854, Abraham Sickler, David Maxwell; 1855, David Lyon, Cornelius A. Waldron ; 
1856, Augustus E. Brown, Alexander Hanuay; 1857, Augustus E. Brown, Obadiah 
Green; 1858, Tilley Houghton, David Maxwell; 1860, George D. Angle, Seneca 
Deuel; 1801, David Maxwell, Seneca Deuel; 1863, Jacob Boyce, Reuben H. Barber; 
1863, David Maxwell, Adam ]Mott; 1864. Malcolm McNaughton, Tilley Houghton; 
1865, William D. Marvin, Adam Mott; 1866, Abraham Marshall, Malcolm McNaugh- 
ton; 1867, Abraham Marshall, William Warner; 1868, David Maxwell, Adam Mott; 
1869, Samuel Wells, George Washburne; 1870, George Washburne, Charles .E. 
Gorsline; 1871, Charles E. Gorsline, George Washburne; 1873, H. Ransom Colson, 
John F. Pruyn ; 1873, John F. Pruyn, Samuel Lewis; 1874, Samuel Lewis, Melbourne 
Van Voorhees; 1875. Melbourne Van Voorhees. Phineas F. Allen; 1870, John Brown, 
John Peck; 1877, William C. Tallmadge, Jere C. Bogert; 1878-1879, Benjamin Rob- 
inson; 1880, John A. Chambers; 1881, Isaac ]. Flansburgh; 1882, Jabez Hamilton; 
1884, William P. Lyon; 1885, .Stephen V. R. White; 1886-1887, Winslow E. Snow; 
1888, E. George Dunklee; 1889, J. William Atkinson; 1890, William A. T. Cassidy; 
1891, James M. Ellithorp; 1893-1893, Charles A. Yates; 1894, Frank D. Roods.' 

Masters in CAancery. —ISOl, Samuel Cook; 1805, John Cramer; 1800, William 
Carpenter, Thomas Lee, jr.; 1807, Daniel G. Garnsey; 1808, George Palmer, jr. , 
Thomas Laing, Eli Smith, Herman Gansevoort, Thomas Palmer; 1810, Ely Beecher; 
1811, Elijah W. Abbott; 1813, Nathan S. Hollister. Aaron Blake, Epenetus White, 
jr., Joshua Mandeville, John Gib.son, Othinel Allen, Thaddeus Jewett; 1814. Henry 
Metcalf, John Metcalf, James Scott, Luther Hulbert; 1815, Esek Cowen, Samuel S. 
Barker, Samuel Belding, Solomon D. Hollister, John Pettit, Benjamin Cowles; 1816. 
William Laing, Nicholas W. Angle; 1817, William B. Van Benthuysen, Bushnell 
Benedict, Robert Sumner, William Comstock;-' 1823, William Given, Thomas 

» The office of justice of sessions was abolished by the constitution of 189.5. 

2 March 12. 1818, an act was passed confining the powers and duties of masters in chancery as 
<iflficers of that court; and their authority to take acknowledgments, etc., was conferred upon 
commissioners. 



CIVIL LIST. 457 

Palmer; 1824, William L. F. Warren; 1831, George W. Kirtland; 1832, Judiah Ells- 
worth; 1834. Oran G. Otis; 1836, John A. Cary; 1840, John K. Porter, Archibald 
Smith, James M. Andrews; 1841, Perry G. Ellsworth; 1843, Callender Beecher ; 1844, 
Edward F. Bullard ; 1846, William L. Avery. 

Examiners in C/iancery.— 1821. Harvey F. Leavitt; 1833, Samuel Cook; 1824, 
Alpheus Goodrich; 1838, Judiah Ellsworth; 1834, Nicholas Hill, jr.; 1835, Oran G. 
Otis; 1837, Sidney J. Cowen ; 1840, James M. Andrews, Nicholas B. Doe, Archibald 
Smith; 1841, John K. Forter, Perry G. Ellsworth; 1843, Thomas G. Young; 1844, 
Daniel Shepherd, Edward F. Bullard; 1846, William L. Avery.' 

Justices of the Peace by Appointment."- — February //, lyi)!. — Samuel Bacon, 
Stillwater, 1797; William Scott, Halfmoon, 1794, 1797, 1800; John B. Schuyler, Sara- 
toga, 1794; Lewis Rogers, 1803; Joseph Rue, Ballston, 1794, 1797, 1800; Jesse Toll, 
Saratoga, 1794, 1797; Isaac Youngs. Ballston, 1791, 1797, 1800, 1803, 1806; Asa Kel- 
logg, Ballston, 1794, 1797, 1800, 1803, 1806, 1809; Richard Davis, jr.. Jacobus Pearse, 
Halfmoon; Douw I. Fonda, Elias Palmer, Stillwater; John Graham; Daniel Morgan, 
Saratoga; Henry Brevoort; John Ball, Joshua Swan. Ballston; Nathaniel Douglas. 

March ij, lygi. — Robert Eldred. Halfmoon, 1791. 

September ^o, Jjgi. — Adam Edson, Halfmoon, 1794, 1797, 1800. 

Alarch J, i'/g2. — Reuben Wright, Stillwater, 1794; Jonathan Lawrence, Saratoga. 
1794, 1797; Benjamin Phillips, Saratoga. 

March J, /79j'.— Seth C. Baldwin, Ballston. 1794, 1797, 1800; Giles Fitch, Green- 
field, 1795, 1809; Samuel Lewis, Saratoga, 1794, 1797; Edward A. Watrous, Balls- 
ton, 1794; James Warren, Galway, 1797. 1800; Samuel Scovil, jr., Northumberland, 
1803,1806,1808; Adam Comstock, Greenfield; Benajah Douglass, Milton; Hachaliah 
Foster, Galway; Robert Ellis, Saratoga; William Bradshaw, Halfmoon. 

February 14, 77,;./.— Stephen Wood, Milton, 1797, 1800; Abel AVhalen, Milton, 
1797; Henry Davis, Halfmoon, 1797; William Clark, 1797; Alexander Gilchrist, 
Charlton, 1797, 1803, 1806, 1810, 1813; John McClelland, Galway, 1797, 1800; Heze- 
kiah Ketchum, Halfmoon, 1797, 1800; John Pettit, Greenfield, 1809, 1812, 1815, 1818, 
1821; Abraham Moe, Halfmoon. 1797, 1800, 1803, 1806, 1809, 1812; Amos Hawley, 
1797, 1800; Lewis Graves 1797, 1800; Henry Walton, Ballston, 1797, 1818; George 
Hunter, Halfmoon, 1797, 1800; Walter Patchin, Milton. 1797, 1800; Jabez Davis, 
Ballston: Solomon Wheeler ; Benjamin Risley, Saratoga; Jacol) Hegeman, Henry 
Van Hyning, Halfmoon. 

March /j, 7795.— Henry Corl, jr., Charlton, 1797, I8OO, 1803; John Bleecker, Still- 
water, 1797, 1800; William Force, Saratoga, 1797; David Brown. 

April ^, i-jg^ — John Boyd, Charlton. 

March 12, iyg6. — Henry Brewster, 1797; George Strover, 1797; Stephen Wait, 

' The offices of examiners in chancery and master in chancery were abolished by the consti- 
tution of 1847, and their powers and duties have since devolved upon referees. 

3 From the organization of the State .government down to l,s-il justices of the peace were 
designated by the Council of Appointment. Under the constitution of that year a law was passed 
authorizing the appointment of justices of the peace by the supervisors and judges of the county. 
In 18^7-28 they were elected by the people; and from isrjoto the present time they were elected at 
the town meetings. The names of those holding this office after the latter date appear in the 
gazetteer of towns. In this list reappointments to office are designated by placing after the 
names of justices the years in which they were reappointed. For example — " February 17, 1791.— 
William Scott, Halfmoon, 17U4, I7U7, 1800." 



458 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Providence, 1797, 1803, 180G, 1809, 1813; James Goodwin, 1797, 1800, 1803, ISOG, 
1809, 1812; Daniel Boardman, Greenfield; David Boyd, William Bettys, Charlton. 

February 2, lygj. — Jabez Davis, Edward Watrous, BalLston ; Adrian Hegeman, 
Halfmoon, 1808; Hugh Peebles, Halfmoon, 1797, 1800. 

February 6, 171)8. — William Dudley. 

April 2, /79J'.— John Neilson, Stillwater. 1800, 1803; Lettice Weston, 1800; Jesse 
Mott, Saratoga, 1803, 1806; Bradstreet Emerson, jr., Northumberland, 1800; Daniel 
Couch, jr., Milton, 1800, 1803, 1804, 1806, 1809, 1813, 1815.1818,1831; Nehemiah 
Conde, Gahvay, 1803, 1806, 1809, 1813, 1815, 1818; Nicholas Rosevelt, 1800. 

August ij, 779.?.— Thomas Laing, Northumberland, 1800, 1803, 1806, 1809, 1818. 

March 14, //c^f/— Elias Willard, Stillwater, 1800; John A. Viele, Saratoga, 1800; 
Nathan Bennett, Malta, 1800, 1803 1806, 1809, 1811; Ezekiel Hawley; Peter Thal- 
heimer, Northumberland. 

April 2, /J'oo.— Ashbel Andrews, jr.. Stillwater, 1803, 1806, 1809, 1813; Adam 
Swan, Galway, 1803, 1814, 1815; Samuel De Forest, Ballston, 1803, 1800, 1809, 1813; 
Uriah Gregory, Ballston, 1803, 1806, 1809, 1813, 1818; Ichabod Hawley, Northumber- 
ladd, 1808, 1809, 1813; Elisha Miles, Northumberland, 1803; Joseph Brown, Charl- 
ton, 1803, 1806, 1810, 1813, 1818, 1821; Samuel Cook, Charlton, 1803, 1800,1809, 
1813, 1815; John Stearns, Halfmoon, 1803, 1806; Robert Mitchell, Milton; Robert 
Leonard, Ballston; Thomas Jeffers, Saratoga ; Stephen Bray ton, Greenfield. 

October JO, /.Joo.— Francis Drake, Halfmoon, 1806, 1809. 

January 2j, iSor. — William Carpenter, Providence, 1803, 1806; Hugh Ale.\ander, 
Galway. 

/^oj'.— Joseph Peck, Halfmoon, 1806, 1807, 1811; John Darby, Halfmoon, 1806, 
1809, 1811, 1815. 1818; Adam Van Vranken, Halfmoon, 1806, 1809, 1812. 1815, 1S18, 
1831; Moses Scott, Halfmoon, 1806, 1809, 1812; Herman Gansevoort, Northumber- 
land, 1806, 1809, 1812, 1815; Thomas Rogers, Moreau, 1805, 1809, 1813; Benjamin 
Cowles, Hadley, 1806, 1809, 1815, 1818, 1831 ; Joseph Blackleach, Greenfield, 1806, 
1809, 1813; Salmon Child, Greenfield, 1806; Joel Keeler, Milton, 1806, 1809, 1812, 
1815, 1818, 1821; James Merrill, Milton, 1806; Elisha Andrews, Stillwater, 1806, 1809, 
1812, 1815; Richard Ketchum. Stillwater, 1806, 1809, 1812; Jordan Sprague, North- 
field, 1806; Caleb Ellis, Saratoga, 1806. 1809; Thomas Ostrander, Saratoga, 1807, 
1809; George Cramer, Saratoga, 1806, 1809; John Nash. Ballston, 1806; John Mc- 
Crea, Ballston, 1806, 1809, 1814; Caleb Holmes, Charlton, 1806, 1809, 1813, 1815, 1818; 
Isaac Gere. Galway, 1806, 1809, 1812, 1815; Samuel L. Barker, Providence, 1806, 
1809. 1815. 1817, 1818, 1831; Levi Hayward, Providence, 1806, 1809, 1813; Justus 
Harris, Daniel Van Alstyne, jr. , Halfmoon; Samuel Perry, Northumberland; Will- 
Ham Huxford, Moreau; Robert Sunrtier, Northfield; Francis Drake, Jared Patchin, 
Ballston. 

July 3, /Av— Solomon Cook, Hadley, 1806, 1809; Thomas Lee, jr., Hadley, 1806; 
William Stilhvell, Ballstou, 1806, 1809, 1811; Elisha Reynolds. Norlhumberland, 
1S06; Enos Gregory, Malta, 1806. 1809; Gideon Goodrich, Milton, 1806; Ezra Nash, 
Milton, 1806, 180D, 1812, 1815; Perez Otis, Providence, 1806, 1809, 1812, 1818, 1831; 
Timothy Hatch, Ballston. 

ylpril g, /<f<y.— Othniel Allen, jr., Providence, 1807, 1809, 1813; Samuel Sweat- 
land, Halfmoon, 1806, 1809; John Hunter, Stillwater, 1815; Timothy Brown, Hadley, 
1806, 1809, 1812; Eliakim Corey, Milton, 1806, 1809. 



CIVIL LIST. 459 

March /•,-, iSo6.—kmo?. Larkin, Ballston, 1809, 1812. 1815, 181S; Francis Reger, 
Northumberland, 1809; Seth Perry, jr., Northumberland, 1809, 1812, 181,"), 1819; 
Henry Martin, Moreau, 1809, 1813, 1815, 1818, 1821; Job Wells, Providence, 1809; 
Peter Morse, jr., Halfmoon, 1809; Thomas Grimes, Northfield, 1809; Willard Trow- 
bridge, Northfield, 1809, 1812; George Palmer, jr., Stillwater, 1818, 1821; James 
Green, Saratoga, 1813, 181.">, 1820, 1821; Nathan Raymond, Ballston; James Cramer, 
Northumberland: Ebenezer Couch, Gal way; Henry Bailey, Halfmoon; Oliver C. 
Comstock, Hadley. 

March is, rSo6.—]o\\a Prior, Greenfield, 1809. 1812, 1815, 1821; Samuel Frink, 
Greenfield, 1809; John B. Le Droietde-Bussy. 

April s, /A)/.— Elisha Powell, Milton, 1809, 1812; Abner Carpenter, Ballston, 
1813; Gilbert Swan, Galway, 1809, 1812, 1815, 1818; Robert Sumner, Northfield, 
1809, 1812; James Brisbin, jr., Saratoga, 1809; David Morehouse, Malta, 1810; Joel 
Lee, Milton; Maus C. Vandenburgh, Halfmoon. 

March iS. iSoS.— Samuel Young, 1809; John W. Taylor, Ballston, 1809; Avery 
Starkweather, Galway, 1809, 1812, 1818, 1821; Harvey Granger, Saratoga, 1809, 
1811, 1812, 1818; Nicholas W. Angle, Moreau, 1809, 1818; John King, Moreau, 1809 
1813. 

April 6, rSoS. — Artemus Chace, Providence, 1809; Jeremy Rockwell. Hadley, 
1809, 1812. 1818, 1821; Reuben Sprague, Charlton, 1809, 1812, 1815. 

March 2o. /<yo9.— Barry Fenton, Hadley, 1811, 1812, 1815, 1818, 1821; Cornelius I. 
Fonda, Northumberland, 1812; Jacob Esmond, Saratoga. 1812; Daniel Gorsline, 
Halfmoon, 1811; Elijah \V. Abbott, Stillwater, 1812; John Dunning, Malta, 1812; 
John Anderson, Charlton ; Jesse Seeley, Charlton; Hezekiah Middlebrook, jr., Mil- 
ton ; Asa C. Barney, Greenfield ; Barker Collamer, Malta. 

March 23, ISio. — Luther Landon, Malta, 1814; Samuel Bailey, Greenfield, 1813, 
1815, 1818; Alfred Bosworth, Greenfield, 1814; Dudley Emerson, Northumberland, 
1813; Elijah Porter, Halfmoon, 1813, 1815; Nathan Comstock, Galway, 1813, 1815; 
Thomas Morey, Stillwater; Luther Hulbert, Peter Fort. Malta; John H. Steel, Sara- 
toga; Abner Carpenter, Ballston; Isaac Webb, Millton ; Isaac B. Payne. William 
Metcalf, Northumberland; Benjamin Chamberlain, John Bradshaw, Jeremiah Coon, 
Joseph Lamb, Halfmoon; Thaddeus Jewett. Galway. 

Ma.rchg. /■$■//.— Calvin Wheeler, Providence, 1815, 1818; Bushnell Benedict, Balls- 
ton, 1813, 1815. 1818, 1821; Joseph B. Lothrop, Ballston. 1812; Nicholas Emigh. jr.. 
Halfmoon, 1812, 1815; Nicholas B. Doe, Halfmoon 1813, 181.5, 1818; John Kinnicut, 
Edinburgh, 1813, 1815, 1821; Jonathan Shipman, Providence, 1812; John Mont- 
gomery, Stillwater, 1812; Samuel Grippin, Moreau, 1812; William Wait, Saratoga; 
Elijah Dunham. Moreau; James Clark. Malta; Solomon Rathbun, Galway. 

March 2j, iSii. — Ezra Talmadge, Malta, 1814, 1815; Samuel Richards, Charlton, 
1813. 1815, 1821; Walter Hewitt, Greenfield, 1813. 

Aprils, /<?//.— Samuel Drake, Halfmoon, 181S; Charles Dake. Greenfield, 1812, 
1815. 

June-, iSii. — Cornelius Van Santford, Halfmoon 1812; Luther Hulbert, Malta, 
1813. 

March jS, 1S12. — Stafford Carr, Northumberland. 1815; Howell Gardner, Green- 
field, 1815. 1818, 1821; Thomas Collamer, Malta, 1815, 1821; David Garnsev, Half- 



4G0 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

moon, 1815; William Taylor, Charlton ; Richard Searing, Saratoga; Eliphaz Fish, 
Malta. 

June i8, tSri. — Jonathan Delano, jr.. Providence, 1815, 1818. 

March ^o. 1813. — Daniel Morgan, jr., Saratoga, 1830; Nicholas D. Conde, Charl- 
ton, 1817, 1818; Isaac Youngs, jr., Greenfield, 1814; Philip Schuyler, Adam Blake, 
Saratoga; Solomon Slate, Ely Beecher, Edinburgh; William Hamilton, Willard H. 
Smith, Halfmoon; Reed Lewis, Northumberland; Nathan Hinmau, Philip Brother- 
son, Charlton; William Seymour, Daniel Rogers, Henry Metcalf, John L. Viele, 
.Stillwater; John Payne, Lazelle Bancroft, Enoch Sill, Moreau ; George W. Fish, 
Robert Hunter, Michael Dunning. Malta; Alexander S. Piatt, Galway; Uriah Cor- 
nell, John Armitage, Providence; Samuel Boardman, Stephen Ambler, Nathan J. 
Wells, Hadley; George H. Benham, Milton. 

April lb /5/./. —Isaac Garnsey, Philander Rathbone, Stillwater; Valentine Rath- 
bun, Milton; John Gibson, Ballston ; William Allen, Noah Vibbard, GaUvay ; Robert 
Kenyon, Malta; Jared Palmer, Northumberland; Daniel G. Garnsey, Halfmoon. 

March 33, /<f/j.— Asahel Philo, Halfmoon. 1818, 1821; David Benedict, Stillwater, 
1818, 1831; Charles Neilson, Stillwater, 1818, 1831; John R. Mott, Saratoga, 1818; 
Benjamin Dimmick, Northumberland, 1818; James Vanderwerker. Northumberland, 
1818, 1831; William Comstock, Northumberland, 1818. 1831; James Mott, Moreau," 
1830, 1831 ; Samuel Snowden, Hadley, 1818; Philander Hewitt, Edinburgh, 1818, 1821 ; 
Azariah Ellithorp, Edinburgh. 1818, 1821; John Hamilton, Edinburgh, 1818; William 
Taylor, Charlton, 1818; Philo T. Beebe, Malta, 1818; Jesse Robertson, Ballston, 1818, 
1821; David Rogers, Ballston, 1819; Elihu Wing, Greenfield, 1818, 1821; Joseph 
Wright, George Peck. Saratoga; Oliver Barrett, Stillwater; Conrad Cramer, North- 
umberland; Solomon Parks, David Tillotson, Moreau; Peter H. Bostwick, Provi- 
dence; Thomas Hall, Abner Bivins, Edy Baker, Malta; Solomon Rathbun, Milton. 

April-;, /AV^,— Isaac Tallman, 1821; Alpheus Goodrich, Milton, 1818, 1821; Enos 
Gregory, Milton. 

April 2, 1S16. — Washington Chapman, Hadley, 1821 ; Dennis Marvin. Malta, 1818; 
1821; Edward D. Berry, Moreau, 1818, 1819; Henry Edson, Waterford, 1818; Josiah 
Fassett, Hadley; Richard M. Livingston, Saratoga. 

April 16. 18 f/. — John Bryan, Saratoga, 1818; Alvaro Hawley, Moreau, 1819; 
WilUam Given, Waterford, 1818, 1821; Godfrey Shew, Providence; William Wait, 
Saratoga ; Stephen W. Palmer, Elnathan Smith, Michael Moe, Halfmoon; William 
Tearse, Moreau; Abner Carpenter, Malta. 

June 6, /J'/J'.—Ros well Day, Malta, 1831; Esek Cowen. Saratoga, 1821; Thomas 
Palmer, Milton, 1831; Oliver Salisbury, Stillwater; David Jlorehouse, Malta; Alvau 
Isbell, Charlton; Peter S. Van Rensselaer, Hadley. 

March 13, iSig. — Jason Adams, Wilton, 1821; Jonas Olmstead, Northumberland, 
1831 ; Harry T. Carpenter, Hadley, 1831 ; Eliphaz Day, Hadley, 1831 ; Joshua Mande- 
ville, Waterford, 1821 ; William H. Satterlee, Ballston, 1821 ; John Metcalf, Sidney 
Thompson, Northumberland; Alexander M. G. Comstock, Corinth ; Gilbert C. Bedell, 
Saratoga. 

March 21, /<?.?o.— Piatt B. Smith, Galway, 1821. 

March 13, 1S21. — Thomas Howland, Northumberland, 1822; Russell Burt, North- 
umberland, 1832; Anson Thompson, Moreau, March 2S), 1821; Henry Edson, Water- 
ford; Reuben Wright, Oliver Brisbin, Saratoga; Joseph A. Sweet, James Burnhara, 



CIVIL LIST. 4fll 

Moreau; Cornelius J. Swartwout, John Fitzgerald, Wilton; John H. Steel, Saratoga 
Springs; Samuel Hunter, Malta; Peter Morse, jr., William Shepherd, Halfmoon, 
Welcome Capron, Edinburgh; Samuel Stinson, Concord. 
March 21, 1821. — George Hunt, Concord. 

Marah 24, 1821. — William Fellows, Isaac Hutton, Stillwater; Peter Sprague, Jon- 
athan Delano, jr., Benedict A. Clark, Providence; Jonathan Conde, Peter Folger, 
Charlton. 

1824. — W. L. F. Warren, Saratoga Springs; George Palmer, Stillwater; Thomas 
Dibble, Corinth. 

January ij, /i?.?6.— Thomas Dibble, Samuel Snowden, Washington Chapman, 
Benjamin Cowles, Corinth; Daniel Stewart, Joel Daj'ton, Stephen Gray, William 
Shepherd, Asahel Philo, William Fowler, Abraham Moe, Halfmoon; William H. 
Satterlee, Jesse Robertson, Bushnell Benedict, James McCrea, Ballston ; Azariah 
Ellithrop, John Hamilton, Philander Hewitt, Amos Cook, Edinburgh ; Perez Otis, 
Piatt B. Smith, Gilbert Swan, Coddington W. Swan, Galway ; Howell Gardner, John 
Prior, John Pettit, Elihu Wing, (jreenfield; Jeremy Rockwell, David Stewart, Joel 
Dayton, Stephen Gray, Hadley; Joseph Brown, Alvin Isbell, Samuel Richards, 
Charlton; Thomas CoUamer, Dennis Marvin, Samuel Hunter, Roswell Day, Malta; 
Thomas Palmer, Alpheus Goodrich, Daniel Couch, Joel Keeler, Milton ; Joseph A. 
Sweet, Anson Thompson, Henry Martin, Moreau ; Thomas Howland, James Van- 
derwerker, Samuel Lewis, Russell Burt, Northumberland ; Samuel S. Barker, Bene- 
dict A. Clark, Peter Sprague, Latham Coftin, Providence; John H. Steel, James 
Green, John Eddy, W. L. F. Warren, Saratoga Springs; David Benedict, George 
Palmer, Charles Neilson, Isaac Hutton, Stillwater; Joshua Mandeville, Henry Edson, 
Moses Scott, Waterford ; Seth Perry, Jason Adams, William Comstock, Wilton. 
fiistices of the Peace Elected from 182- to iSsg. 

1837. — Ballston: Jesse Robertson, James McCrea, William H. Satterlee, Bushnell 
Benedict. Charlton: John A. Gilchrist, Alvin Isbell, Josiah C. Grant, Walter K. 
Ma.Kwell. Concord (Day); Samuel Stimson, George Hunt, Amos Lawton, Stephen 
Lawson. Corinth: William Jones, Jeduthan Lindsey. Asahel Deuel, Samuel Low- 
den. Edinburgh: Ely Beecher, Philander Hewitt, Samuel Noyes, Solomon EUi- 
thorp. Galway: Perez Otis, Coddington W. Swan, Gilbert Swan, Piatt B Smith. 
Greenfield: Howell Gardner, John Pettit, Elihu Wing, Adam Bockes, jr. Hadley: 
Jeremy Rockwell, Stephen Gray, Harmon Rockwell, Joel Dayton. Halfmoon : Will- 
iam Fowler, Asahel Philo, Silas Sweatland, William Shepherd. Malta: .Samuel 
Hunter, Philo T. Beebe, David Newton, Gould Morehouse. Milton: Thomas 
Palmer, Alpheus Goodrich, Daniel Couch, William J. Angle. Moreau: Joseph A. 
Sweet, Enoch Sill, Anson Thompson, Truman Hamlin. Northumberland: Thomas 
Howland, James Vanderwerker, Jesse Billings, jr., Nathaniel McClellan. Prov- 
idence: Calvin Wheeler, Jesse Briggs, John Barker, Uriah Cornell. .Saratoga: Har- 
vey Granger, Daniel Morgan, jr., William B. Caldwell, James Mott. Saratoga 
Springs: W. L. F. Warren, Judiah Ellsworth, Aaron Blake, John B. Gilbert. Still- 
water: George Palmer, David Benedict, Philip H. McOmber, Charles Neilson. 
Waterford: William A. Scott, Manley Amsden, Henry Edson, Joshua Mandeville. 
Wilton: Jason Adams, John I. Swartwout, William C. Brisbin, Coles Golden. 

1828.— Ballston: William H. Satterlee. Charlton: Josiah C. Grant. Clifton Park: 
Joseph Reed, Stephen H. Wakeman. Concord (Day): Anthony Allen. Corinth: 



4G2 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Ben;amin Cowles. Edinburgh: Solomon EUithorp. Galway: Coddington W. Swan. 
Greenfield: Stafford Lapham. liadley: Harmon Rockwell. Halfmoon: Chauncey 
Cowles, Powell Howland. Malta: Benjamin Armington. Miiton: Thomas Palmer. 
Moreau: James Newton. Northumberland; John W. Angle. Providence: Calvin 
Wheeler. Saratoga: Stephen H. Dillingham. Saratoga Springs: Ransom Cook. 
Stillwater: David Benedict. Waterford: William H. Scott. Wilton: Jason Adams. 

1829.— Ballston: Jesse Robertson. Charlton: John A. Gilchrist. Clifton Park: 
Cornelius Hegeman, Isaac E. Garnsey. Concord (Day): George Hunt. James D. 
Long. Corinth: Winsor Brown. Edinburgh: Amos Cook, Samuel' Noyes. Gal- 
way: PerezOtis. Greenfield: Adam Bockes. Hadley: Daniel Stewart. Halfmoon: 
Stephen Vernara. Malta: Obadiah S. Haight. Milton: Daniel Couch. Moreau; 
John Reynolds. Northumberland: Thomas Howland. Providence: John Barker. 
Saratoga, Francis K. Winne. Saratoga Springs: John B. Gilbert. Stillwater: Rich- 
ard Ketchum. Waterford; Joshua Mandeville. Wilton; John I. Swartwout. 

Cojmty Judges. — 1847, Augustus Bockes; 1854, John A. Corey; 1855, James B. Mc- 
Kean; 1859, John W Crane; 1863, John C. Hulbert; 1870. Charles S. Lester; 18TG, 
John W. Crane; 1883, Jesse S. L'Amoreaux; 1888, James W. Houghton. 

Surrogates.— 1191, Sidney Berry; 1794, Henry Walton; 1808, Beriah Palmer; 
1812, Thomas Palmer; 1814, Daniel G. Guernsey; 1815, Thomas Palmer; 1816, 
George Palmer; 1834, John W. Thompson; 1847, John C. Hulbert; 1856, Cornelius 
A. Waldron ; 1878, Elias H. Peters. 

County Clerks.— Yi9\, Dirck Swart; 1804, Seth C. Baldwin; 1814, Levi H. Palmer; 
1815, William Stillwell; 1818, Thomas Palmer; 1833, Alpheus Goodrich; 1840, Archi- 
bald Smith; 1843, Horace Goodrich; 1846, James W. Horton; Mr. Horton died Feb- 
ruary 13, 1885, and Joseph E. Westcot, deputy county clerk, acted as county clerk 
until February 34, 1885; Seth Whalen was clerk from the latter date to November 
26, 1886, died on that date, and Deputy Clerk Westcott acted as clerk to December 
4, 1886; on that date James L. Scott was appointed and served till December 31, 
1887; Edward F. Grose was elected in 1887, took office January 1, 1888. 

District Attorneys.— \'iV^. Richard M. Livingston; 1821, William L. F. Warren; 
1836, Nicholas Hill, jr.; 1837, Chesselden Ellis; 1843, William A. Beach; 1847, John 
Lawrence; 1851, William T. Odell; 1857, John O. Mott; 1860, Charles S. Lester; 
1863, Isaac C. Ormsby; 1869, Winsor B. French; 1871, Isaac C. Ormsby ; 1880, John 
Van Rensselaer; 1883, John Foley; 1886, Theodore F.Hamilton; 1893, John Per- 
son;' 1895, James A. Burnham. 

Sheriffs.— V19\, Jacob Fort, jr.; 1794, Douw I. Fonda; 1799, Henry Davis; 1801, 
Seth C. Baldwin; 1804, Daniel Bull; 1807, Asahel Porter; 1808, Daniel Bull; 1810, 
Asahel Portor; 1811, Nathaniel Ketchum; 1813, Hezekiah Ketchum; 1815, James 
Brisbin, jr.; 1819, John Dunning; 1821, John R. Mott; 1823, John Dunning; 1826, 
Lyman B. Langworthy ; 1829, John Dunning; 1833, John Vernam ; 1835, Joseph 
Jennings; 1838, Samuel Freeman; 1841, Robert Speir; 1844, Isaac Frink; 1847, 
Thomas Low; 1850, Theodore W. Sanders; 1853, William T. Seymour; 1853, Henry 
H. Ilathorn; 1856, Philip H. McOmber; 1859, George B. Powell; 1862, Henry H. 
Hathorn; 1865, Joseph Baucus; 1868, Tabor B. Reynolds; 1871, Thomas No.xon; 

' Died in office September 15, 18'J5; James \. Burnham appointed October 1, I8'Jo, to fill the 
unexpired term. 



CIVIL LIST. 4G3 

1874, Franklm Carpenter: 1877, Douw F. Winney; 1880, Henry C. Van Denburgh ; 
1883, Nathaniel M. Houghton; 188G, Alexander B. Baucus: 1889, Daniel H. Deyoe; 
1892, William W. Worden; 1895, Frank Jones; 1898, Eramor J. Caldwell. 

OniKR County Okkiceks. 

County Treasurers. — 1791, Guert Van Schoonhoven ; 1792, Samuel Clark ; 1794, 
Caleb Benedict; 1796, Elisha Powell; 1798, Robert Leonard; 1800, Jonathan Kellogg; 
1805, Edward Watrous; 1810, Archy Kasson ; 1815, Azariah W. Odell; 1822, Edward 
Watrous; 1831, George Thompson; 1844, Arnold Harris; 1847, Edward W. Lee; 1849, 
Arnold Harris; 1855, Orville D. Vaughn; 1801, Henry A. Mann; 187C, James H. 
Wright; 1880, Stephen C. Medbery; 1898, Bartlett B. Grippin. 

Coroners (appointed) — 1791. James Rogers. Ezekiel Ensign, Aaron Comstock; 
1792, Thomas Rogers, Aaron Comstock; 1793. James Rogers; 1795, Isaac Keeler; 
179(5, Isaac Keeler, Nathan Raymond. John Neilson, Zerah Beach, Stephen Ball; 
1797, Stephen Ball, Zerah Beach, John Neilson, Isaac Keeler, Nathan Raymond; 
179^, John Neilson. Isaac Keeler, Nathan Raymond, Ebenezer Couch; 1799, Thomas 
Laing, Joseph Newland, Moses Scott, Robert Leonard; 1800, Joseph Newland. 
Moses Scott, Robert Leonard, Thomas Laing; 1801, Robert Mitchell; 1804, Chauncey 
Beldiug, James I. Brisbin, Luther Landon ; 180."), James Brisbin, jr., Luther Landon, 
Chauncey Beldmg; 1806, Jaraes Brisbin, jr., Hezekiah Middlebrook, jr.; 1807, John 
Knickerbocker, jr.; 1808, Conrad Cramer, Nehemiah Conde, Hezekiah Middlebrook, 
jr.; 1809, Nehemiah Conde, Elisha Howland, Conrad Cramer, William S. McRae ; 
1811, Elisha Howland, George H Benham; 1813, G. H. Benham, Henry Philmore, 
Abner Medbery, Isaac B. Payne, John Bradshaw, Royal Knights; 1814, G. H. Ben- 
ham, H. Philmore, A. Medbery, I. B. Payne, R. Knights, Adam Edson; 1815-1816, 
Henry O. Wright, Stephen Jackson; 1816, Nicholas Carpenter, Daniel Hicks, Will- 
iam Davis, Daniel Rogers, Gilbert C. Bedell; 1817. James Mott, Darius Johnson, L. 
B. Langworthy, Jonathan Delano, jr., D. Hicks; 1818. L. B. Langworthy, D. Hicks, 
William H. Satterlee, Daniel Rogers. William Tearse, Truman B. Hicks, John Cook, 
Latham Coffin; 1819, L. B. Langworthy, D. Hicks, W. H. Satterlee, D. Rogers, 
William Tearse, T. B. Hicks, John Cook, L. Coffin, Solomon Parks; 1820, L. B. 
Langworthy, D. Hicks, D. Rogers, William H. Satterlee, William Tearse, T. B. 
Hicks, John Cook, Latham Coffin; 1821, Isaac Sears. Peter L. Mawney, John II. 
Steel. William Davis, Chester Clapp, Timothy Crane, John W. Creal, John Ballard, 
Daniel Rogers; 1822, Isaac Sears, P. L. Mawney, J. H. Steel. William Davis, Chester 
Clapp, Timothy Crane, J. W. Creal, John Ballard, Daniel Rogers, John Pettit. 

(Elected by the people.) — 1823, Reuben Westcot, William Vernam, Benjamin 
Cowlos, Gilbert Swan; 1826, Oren Sage, Dirck L. Palmer. Amos Cook, William l"el- 
lows; 1829, Harmon Rockwell, Hugh Alexander, Dirck L. Palmer, Nathan 1). Sher- 
wood; 1832, N. D. Sherwood, Joseph B. V. Fairbanks, Chauncey G. Dibble, D. L. 
Palmer; 1835, George Hunt, Peter Shute, Eli Holbrook, Israel Baker; 1838, Rock- 
well Putnam, Abraham K. Underhill, William Brown, N. D. Sherwood; 1840, Leon- 
ard Hodgman; 1841, Chauncey Boughton, Abraham Marshall, Lemuel 1). Sabin; 
1843. John A. Waterbury; 1844, Nathan A. Philo, Henry White, Thomas S. Carpen- 
ter; 1846, Calvin W. Dake; 1847, William A. Mundell, Harvey H. Rogers, James H. 
Lockwood; 1849, Gilbert Purdy; 1850, Wynant G. Vandenburgh, William A. Mun- 



464 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

dell, J. H. Lockwood; 1851, David Rhodes; 1853, James Viall, Archibald Gow, Na- 
thaniel J. Seeley; 1854, Benjamin F. Chadsey; 1856, Peter E. Esmond, Emmor K. 
Husted, N. J. Seeley; 1857, Gideon Comstock ; 1859, N. J. Seeley, NanningV. Fort, 
A. Gow. James F. Doolittle; 18G0, Charles H. Andrus, Philip Heartt, 2d; 1863, 
Cyrus F. Rich, NanningV. Fort; 1863, John Barrett, Nathan W. Buckmaster; 1865, 
N. V. Fort, John L. Perry, jr. ; 1866, N. V. Fort, David F. White, Alfred Angell ; 
1868, Philip Heartt, 2d; 1869, Alfred Angell, John J. Clute, Jacob Boyce; 1871, 
Philip Heartt, 2d; 1872. D. F. White, Edmund J. Ruling, Ambrose C. Hickok; 1874, 
Philip Heartt, 2d; 1875, Benjamin W. Noxon, Alfred Angell. Frank Gow; 1877, 
Philip Heartt, 2d; 1878, Frank Gow, Walton W. French, Frank M. Boyce; 1880, 
Frank K. Lee; 1881, W. W. French, Charles E. Creal, Henry C. Monroe; 1883, 
Philip Heartt, 2d; 1884, Eben S. Lawrence, Charles E. Creal, John A. Moore; 1886, 
Roland H. Stubbs; 1887, Douglas C. Moriarta, Richard H. McCarty, Charles W. 
Keefer; 1889, Roland H. Stubbs; 1890, Frederick Carr, Charles B. Mallery, Charles 
W. Keefer (removed), Henry J. Allen (appointed in place of C. B. Mallery); 1891, 
Richard H. McCarty; 1892, Roland H. Stubbs; 1893, George Hudson, Miles E. Var- 
ney; 1894, William B. Webster; 1895, Pierson C. Curtis; 1896, George Hudson, 
Miles E. Varney; 1897, William B. Webster; 1898, James R. Strang. 

Superintendents of the Poor. — 1827, Aaron Morehouse, Alpheus Goodrich. Jesse 
Robertson, Hugh Hawkins, Rockwell Putnam, Earl Stimson, David Benedict, David 
Garnsy, Jonathan Lapham, Elisha Powel, Christopher Earl; 1828, Hugh Hawkins, 
E. Powell, C. Earl, A. Goodrich, Moses Williams; 1831, E. Powell, H. Hawkins, 
Aaron Morehouse, C. Earl; 1833, E. Powell, H. Hawkins, A. Morehouse; 1833, E. 
Powell, A. Morehouse. Samuel Smith; 1835, E. Powell. Lebbeus Booth, William 
Hawkins; 1843, W. Hawkins, John Wait, Edward W. Lee; 1844, L. Booth, Abra- 
ham Middlebrook, James H. Speir; 1847, John Kelly, John Wait, William W. Arn- 
old; 1848, Calvin Wheeler, Abraham Middlebrook, William A. Mundell; 1849, Rob- 
ert Gardner; 18.50, Calvin Wheeler; 1851, Abraham Middlebrook; 1852, Robert 
Gardner; 1853, Samuel Rue; 1854, Abraham Middlebrook; 1855, Robert Gardner; 
1856. Samuel Rue; 1857, Harmon G. Sweeney; 1858, Robert Gardner; 1859, Henry 
Wright; 1860, David Rowley; 1861, Richard Hewitt; 1863, Henry Wright; 1863, 
Henry Holmes; 1864, David Rowley; 1865, Alexander Davidson; 1866, Henry 
Holmes and James Tripp (vice Rowley, deceased); 1867, James Tripp; 1868, Alex- 
ander Davidson; 1869, Thomas Sweet; 1870, James Tripp; 1871, Zimri Lawrence; 
1872, Alexander Davidson; 1873, James Tripp; 1874, Zimri Lawrence; 1875, George 
W. King; 1870, James Tripp; 1877, Gilbert P. Rowley; 1878, George W. King; 1879, 
James Tripp; 1880, G. P. Rowley; 1881, G. W. King; 1882, Adam Mott, Charles W. 
Spaulding; 1884, John P. Crouch; 188.5, Henry Clark; 1886, James D. Stiles; 1887, 
John A. Kathan; 1888, Henry Clark; 1892, Joseph H. Alexander; 1895. Charles W. 
Spaulding.' 

Deputy Superinte7idents of Common Schools (Act of /<SV/)— 1841, Alanson 
Smith ; 1843-1845. Seabury Allen. 

School Commissioners.— \%'i&, Samuel Tompkins, first district ; Anson M. Boyce, 
second district. 1858, Charles D. Seeley, first district; Anson M. Boyce, second di.s- 

' Prior to 1«32 the superintendents of the poor were chosen by the supervisors ; from W-H to 
W12 they were appointed by the Court of Common Ple.is and supervisors ; from 1842 to IS18 they 
were again chosen by the supervisors, and since 1849 have been elected by the people. 



CIVIL LIST. 465 

trict. 1861, Seymour Chase, first; Walton W. French, second. 1864, Thomas Mc- 
Kindley, first; Henry Wilcox, jr., second. 1867, Neil Gilmour, first; Henry Wilcox, 
jr., second. 1870, Seth Whalen, first; Oscar F. Stiles, second. 1873, Neil Gilmour,' first; 
Oscar F. Stiles, second. 1876, Nelson L. Roe, first ; John W. Shurter, second. 1879, 
William L. Hoyt; 1882, James G. Weedon ; 1885, James F. McCormick; 1888, Will- 
iam N. Harris; 1891, George H. West, first; A. Edson Hall, second. John T. Rice, 
vice A. E. Hall (resigned), appointed December 5, 1895, term expired December ;il, 
1896. Frank L. Smith, vice George H. West (resigned), appointed November 12, 
1895, terra expired December 31, 1896. 1897, Frank L. Smith, first; John T. Rice 
second. 

Representatives in Congress. 

James Gordon, Ballston, 1791-1795; John Thompson, Stillwater, 1799-1801; Beriah 
Palmer, Ballston, 1803-1805; John Thompson, Stillwater, 1807-1811; John W.Taylor, 
Ballston, 1813-1833; John Cramer, Waterford, 1833-1837; Anson Brown, Milton, 
1839-1840: Nicholas B. Doe, Waterford, 184.3-1845; Hugh White, Waterford, 184.5- 
1851; James B. McKeau, Saratoga Springs, 1851-1863; James M. Marvin, Saratoga 
Springs, 1863-1869; Henry H. Hathorn, Saratoga Springs, 1871-1877; George West, 
Ballston Spa, 1881-1883 and 1885-1887. 

State Officers Residing in Saratoga County. 

Reuben Hyde Walworth, chancellor, 1828-1847; Esek Cowen, justice of the Su- 
preme Court, 1836-1844; John Willard, justice of the Supreme Court, 1847-1853; 
Augustus Bockes, justice of the Supreme Court, 1855; also from 1860 to 1888; John 
R. Putnam, justice of the Supreme Court, 1888 to 1900; Samuel Young, secretary of 
state, 1842-1845; James M. Cook, comptroller, 1854-1856: James M. Cook, treasurer, 
1853; Samuel Young, canal commissioner, 1816-1842; George W. Chapman, canal 
commissioner, 1870-1872 ; James M. Cook, superintendent of banking, 1856-1861 ; 
Samuel Young, ex-officio superintendent of common schools, 1842-1845; Gideon 
Hawley, superintendent of common schools, 1813-1821 ; Neil Gilmour, superintend- 
ent of public instruction, 1874-1883; Silas Seymour, state engineer and surveyor, 
1881-1883. 

State Sen.ators Residing in Saratoga County. 

1794-1805. — Jacobus Van Schoonhoven, Half Moon. 
1796-1804.— James Gordon, Ball's Town. 
1806-1809.— Adam Comstock, Hadley. 
1810-1813.— John Stearns, Half Moon. 
1814-1817.— Samuel Stewart, Half Hoon. 
1815. — Guert Van Schoonhoven, Half Moon. 
1818-1821.— Samuel Young, Ball's Town. 
1822.— John L. Viele, Waterford. 
1823-1825.— John Cramer, Waterford. 
1826-1829.— John L. Viele, Waterford. 

'Appointed State Superintendent of Public Instruction in 1S7J; Henry L. Grose appointed t" 
fill vacancv. 
30 



466 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1830-1833.— Isaac Gere, Galway. 
1835-1840.— Samuel Young, Ballston. 
1841-1843.— John W. Taylor, Ballston. 
1846-1847.— Samuel Young, Ballston. 
1848-1857.— James M. Cook, Milton. 
1858-1859.— George G. Scott. Milton. 
1860-1861.— Isaiah Blood, Milton. 
1863. — John Willard, .Saratoga Springs. 
1864-1865.— James M. Cook, Saratoga Springs. 
1870.— Isaiah Blood,' Milton. 
1883-1883.— Alexander B. Bancus,' Saratoga. 
1888-1889.— John Foley, Saratoga Springs. 
1890-1895.— Harvey J. Donaldson, Milton. 
1896 .-Edgar T. Brackett, Saratoga Springs. 

Members of Assembly. 

(From Albany county, residing in that part which subsequently was set off to form 
Saratoga county.) 

1777-1780.— James Gordon, Ball's Town. 

1780-1781.— James Gordon, Ball's Town; Dirck Swart, Stillwater. 

1781-1782.— George Palmer and Dirck Swart, Stillwater. 

1783-1783.— Dirck Swart. 

1783-1784.— James Gordon, Dirck Swart. 

1784^1785.— Dirck Swart. 

1785-1786. — James Gordon; Jacobus Van Schoonhoven, Half Moon. 

1787-1788.— James Gordon. 

1788-1789.— John Thompson, Stillwater. 

1789-1790.— James Gordon. 

1790-1791. — Jacobus Van Schoonhoven ; .Sidney Berry, Saratoga. 
(From Saratoga County.) 

1792. — Sidney Berry, Saratoga; Elias Palmer, Stillwater; Andrew Mitchell, Balls- 
ton; Benjamin Rosencrans, Half Moon. 

1793. — Adam Comstock, Milton; John Ball, Milton; Beriah Palmer, Ballston; 
Sidney Berry, Saratoga. 

1794. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; Beriah Palmer, Ballston; John Ball, Milton; 
John McClelland, Galway. 

1795. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; John B. Schuyler, Saratoga; Beriah Palmer, 
Ballston ; Jabez Davis, Ballston. 

17%. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; John McClelland, Galway; Elias Palmer, 
Stillwater; John Bleecker, Stillwater. 

1797. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; Samuel Clark, Stillwater; John Taylor, Charl- 
ton; Seth C. Baldwin, Ballston; John McClelland, Galway. 

1798. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; Seth C. Baldwin, Ballston; Samuel Clark, 
Stillwater; Aaron Gregory, Milton; Douw J. Fonda, Stillwater. 

' Died in office, November, 18"0. 
'Elected February 38, 1882, at special election, t.o succeed Webster Wagner, who died in office 
January 13, 1882. 



CIVIL LIST, 407 

1799. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; Seth C. Baldwin, Ballston ; Samuel Clark, 
Stillwater; Henry Carl, jr., Charlton; James Warren, Galway. 

1800. — Adam Comstock, Greenfield; Samuel Clark, Stillwater; Daniel Bull, Sara- 
toga; James Warren, Galway; Edward A. Watrous, Ballscon. 

1801. — Adam Comstock. Greenfield; Daniel Bull, Saratoga; Henry Carl, jr., 
Charlton ; James Warren, Galway ; James Merrill, Milton. 

1803. — Adam Comstock, Hadley; Henry Carl, jr., Charlton; James Warren, Gal- 
way; Edward A. Watrous, Ballston. 

1803. — Adam Comstock, Hadley; Samuel Clark, Malta; Gideon Goodrich, Milton; 
Othniel Looker. 

1804. — Adam Comstock, Hadley; Jolin Hunter, Stillwater; Samuel Lewis, North- 
umberland; Othniel Looker. 

1805. — Samuel Clark, Malta; Asahel Porter, (ireeufield; William Carpenter, Prov- 
idence; David Rogers, Ballston. 

1806. — Jesse Mott, Saratoga; Asahel Porter, Greenfield; John Cramer, Halfmoon ; 
John McClelland, Galway. 

1807. — Jesse Mott, Saratoga; Gideon Goodrich, Miltou; Chauncey Belding, Charl- 
ton ; David Rogers, Ballston. 

1808. — John McClelland, Galway; Chauncey Belding, Charlton; Solomon Child, 
Greenfield ; Jesse Mott, Saratoga. 

1809. — Solomon Child, Greenfield; Nehemiah Conde, Galway; David Rogers, 
Ballston; Daniel L. Van Antwerp. Stillwater. 

1810. — Samuel Lewis, Northumberland; Calvin Wheeler, Providence; Joel Lee, 
Milton ; Daniel L. Van Antwerp, Stillwater. 

1811. — John Cramer, Halfmoon; Jesse Mott, Saratoga; Jeremy Rockwell, Hadley; 
David Rogers, Ballston. 

1812.— John W.Taylor, Hadley; Joel Keeler, Milton; Zebulon Mott, Halfmoon; 
Avery Starkweather, Galway. 

1813.— John W. Taylor, Hadley; John Prior. Greenfield; Caleb Holmes, Charlton; 
Calvin Wheeler, Providence. 

1814. — Samuel Young, Ballston; Nicholas W. Angle, Moreau; Avery Starkweather, 
Galway ; John Dunning. Malta. 

1815. — Samuel Young, Ballston; Richard Ketchum, Stillwater; Howell Gardiner, 
Greenfield; Benjamin Cowles, Hadley. 

1816. — Asa C. Barney, Greenfield; George Cramer, Saratoga; Isaac Gere, Galway; 
William Hamilton, Halfmoon. 

1817. — Herman Gan.sevoort, Northumberland; John Hamilton, Edinburgh; Zebulon 
Mott, Halfmoon ; John Petit, Greenfield. 

1818. — Elisba Powell, Milton; John Gibson, Ballston; Earl Stimson, Galway 
Staats Morris, Stillwater. 

1819. — Joel Keeler, Milton; John Rogers, jr., Charlton; William Hamilton, Orange 
Abner Carpenter, Malta. 

1830.— Billy J. Clark, Moreau; Elisha Powell, Milton; Abraham Moe, Halfmoon 
Jonathan Delano, jr.. Providence. 

1821.— Zebulon Mott, Halfmoon; John Rogers, jr., Charlton; Herman Gansevoort 
Northumberland; John House, Waterford. 



468 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1833. — John Prior, Greenfield; John Gilchrist, Charlton; Conrad Cramer, North- 
umberland; Thomas Collamer, Malta. 

1833. — Valentine Campbell, Stillwater; Samuel Belding, Charlton; John Petit, 
Greenfield. 

1824. — Isaac Gere, Galway; Jermy Rockwell, Hadley; James McCrea, Ballston. 

1825. ^Alpheus Goodrich, Milton; Philip Schuyler, Saratoga; Nicholas B. Doe, 
Waterford. 

1826.— Samuel Young, Ballston; Thomas Dibble, Corinth; David Benedict, Still- 
water. 

1837. — Howell Gardiner, Greenfield ; John Gilchrist, Charlton; Nicholas Enright, 
jr., Halfmoon. 

1828.— Alpheus Goodrich, Milton; Thomas Hyland, Northumberland ; Eli M. Todd, 
Waterford. 

1829. — Gilbert Waring, Saratoga Springs; Joshua Mandeville, Waterford; Calvin 
Wheeler, Providence. 

1830.— William Shepherd, Clifton Park; Seth Perry, Wilton; Samuel Stewart, 
Waterford. 

1831 — Howell Gardiner, Greenfield ; John Gilchrist, Charlton ; Orau G. Otis, 
Milton. 

1832. — Oran G. Otis, Milton; James Brisbin, jr., Saratoga; Ebenezer Couch, Gal- 
way. 

1833.— George Reynolds, Moreau; Ephraim Stevens, Clifton Park; Ebenezer 
Couch, Galway, 

1834. — Eli M. Todd, Waterford; Thomas J. Marvin, Saratoga Springs; Solomon 
EUitborp, Edinburgh. 

1835. — Asahel Philo, Halfmoon; William B. Van Benthuysen, Saratoga; Ely 
Beecher, Edmburgh. 

1836. — Joel Lee, Milton; David Benedict, Stillwater; Samuel Stimson, Day. 

1837. — Seabury Allen, Providence; Halsey Rogers, Moreau. 

1838. — Calvin Wheeler, Providence; Walter Van Veghten, Saratoga. 

1839. — Calvin Wheeler, Providence; John Stewart, Waterford. 

1840. — John Stewart, Waterford; Daniel Stewart, Hadley. 

1841. — Abijah Peck, jr., Clifton Park; Jesse H. Mead, Galway. 

1843. — John Cramer, Waterford; Halsey Rogers, Moreau. 

1843. — Azariah E. Stimson, Galway; Lyndes Emerson, Wilton. 

1844. — James Groom, Clifton Park; Ezra Wilson, Greenfield. 

1845. — William Wilcox, Saratoga; Edward Edwards, Corinth. 

1846. — James M. Marvin, Saratogs Springs; Chauncey Boughton, Halfmoon. 

1847. — Thomas C. Morgan, Waterford; Joseph Daniels, Greenfield. 

1848. — First district, Cady Hollister, Ballston; second district, George Payne, 
Moreau. 

1849. — First, Roscius R. Kennedy, Clifton Park; second. William W. Rockwell, 
Hadley. 

1850. — First, James Noxon, Halfmoon ; second, Frederick J. Wing, Greenfield. 

1851. — First, Abraham Leggett, Stillwater; second, John L. Perry, Saratoga 
Springs. 

1853.— First, Isaiah Blood, Milton; second, Alexander H. Palmer, Hadley. 



CIVIL LIST. 



469 



1853.- 
1854.- 

land. 
18,5.5.- 

laud. 
1856.- 
1857.- 
18.58.- 
1859.- 

burgh. 
1.860.- 
1861.- 
1862.- 
1863.- 
1864.- 
1865.- 
1866.- 

reau. 
1867.- 
1868.- 

Springs. 
1869.- 
1870.- 
1871.- 
1872.- 
1873.- 
1874.- 
1875.- 
1876.- 
1877.- 
1878.- 

land. 
1879.- 
1880.- 
1881.- 
1882.- 
1883.- 
1884.- 
1885.- 
1886.- 
1887.- 
1888.- 
1889.- 
1890.- 
1891.- 
1893.- 



First, William Cary, Halfmoon ; second, Henry Holmes. Saratoga. 

George W. Neilson, Stillwater; second, Joseph Baucus, Northumber- 



-First, 

-First, 

-First 
-First 
-First, 
■First 

■Fir.st 
First 
-First 
•First, 
•First, 
•First, 
■First 

■First, 
■First 

■First 
■First 
•First, 
■First, 
■First 
■First 
■First, 
■First, 
■First 
■First 

•First, 
■First, 
■First 
First 
■First 
■First 
■First 
■First 
•First, 
First 
•First, 
■First 
•First, 
•First 



Cornelius Schuyler, Ballston; second, John Terhune, Northumber- 

George G. Scott, Milton; second, Joseph Baucus, Northumberland. 
George G. Scott, Milton ; second, Samuel J. Mott, Saratoga. 
Chauncey Boughton, Halfmoon; second, Tabor B. Reynolds, Wilton. 
Chauncey Boughton, Halfmoon ; second, George S. Batcheller, Edin- 

John Fulton. Waterford ; second, Judiah Ellsworth, Saratoga Springs. 
John Fulton, Waterford; second, James .Sumner, jr.. Providence. 
John Fulton, Waterford; second, Nathaniel M. Houghton. Corinth. 
Ira Brockett. Galwa)'; second, N. M. Houghton, Corinth. 
Ira Brockett, Galway; second, Edward Edwards, Corinth. 
George W. Chapman, Milton; second, Edward Edwards, Corinth. 
Truman G. Younglove, Halfmoon ; second, Austin L. Reynolds, Mo- 

T. G. Younglove, Halfmoon ; second, A. L. Reynolds, Moreau. 
T. G. Younglove, Halfmoon; second, Alembert Pond, Saratoga 

T. G. Younglove, Halfmoon ; second, De Witt C. Hoyt, Greenfield. 

Isaiah FuIler.Galvvay ; second, Seymour Ainsworth, Saratoga Springs. 

Isaiah Fuller, Galway; second, Joseph W. Hill, Saratoga .Springs. 

George West, Milton ; second, N. M. Houghton. Corinth. 

George West, Milton ; second. George S. Batcheller, Saratoga Springs. 

George West, Milton ; second, George S. Batcheller, Saratoga Springs. 

George West, Milton ; second, N. M. Houghton, Corinth. 

George West, Milton; second, Isaac Noyes, jr., Edinburgh. 

George W. Neilson, Stillwater; second, Isaac Noyes. jr., Edinburgh. 

George W. Neilson, Stillwater; second. Daniel H. Deyoe, Northumber- 

Edward Stewart; .second, Daniel H. Deyoe. 
Benjamin F. Baker; second, Delcour S. Potter. 
Benjamin F. Baker; second, Delcour S. Potter. 
Benjamin F. Baker; second, Delcour S. Potter. 
William B. Consalus; second, Henry S. Clement. 
Daniel C. Briggs; second, Thomas No.xon. 
Daniel C. Briggs; second, Bartlett B. Grippin. 
William M. Donald; second, George Sherman Batcheller. 
John H. Burke; second, Bartlett B. Grippin. 
Harvey J. Donaldson ; second, Bartlett B. Grippin. 
Harvey J. Donaldson; second, George S. Batcheller. 
Cornelius R. Sheffer; second, Frank M. Boyce. 
Cornelius R. Sheffer; second, Lewis Varney. 
Frank L. Smith ; second, Lewis Varney. 



470 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOr>LE. 

1893.'— James Frank Terry. 
1894.— James Frank Terry. 
1895.— C. H. McNaughton. 
1896,— C. H. McNaughton. 
1897. — George W. Kavanaugh. 
1898. — George W. Kavanangh. 

Oki'icers of Board of Supervisors. 

Moi/erat(jrs.—\79\. Beriah Palmer; 1792, John McClelland; 1793, Richard Davis, 
jr.; 1794, John Taylor; 1795, John B. Schuyler; 1796-97, Benjamin Rosekrans; 1798, 
Henry Walton; 1799, Benjamm Rosekrans; 1800. Seth C. Baldwin; 1801, Asahel 
Porter; 1802-03, John Hunter; 1804-05, Ashbel Andrews, jr. ; 1806-08, Elisha Powell ; 
1809, Ashbel Andrews, jr. ; 1810-11, Benjamin Cowles; 1812, Joel Keeler; 1813, 
Samuel Young; 1814, Zebulon Mott; 1815, John Low; 1816, Joel Keeler; 1817, James 
McCrea; 1818, Joel Keeler; 1819-20, Calvin Wheeler; 1821, Thomas Dibble; 1823, 
John Low; 1833, Calvin Wheeler; 1834, William Given; 1825, John Low; 1836, Cal- 
viii Wheeler; 1837, Perez Otis. 

C/ta/rmen.— 182$, Calvin Wheeler; 1829, John H. Steel; 1830, Calvin Wheeler ;_ 
1831-33. Thomas Dibble; 1833, Eli M. Todd; 1834, Richard Ketchum; 1835, Dudley 
Smith; 1836-37, Richard Ketchum; 1838, Conrad Cramer; 1839, Daniel Morgan; 1840, 
Harmon Rockwell ; 1841, Lyndes Emerson; 1843, Samuel Chapman ; 1843, Harmon 
Rockwell; 1844-45, James M. Cook; 1846, Theodore W. Sanders; 1847, Zopher L 
Belong; 1848, Harmon Rockwell; 1849. Henry Holmes; 1850, Daniel T. Lamb; 1851, 
Stephen H.Dillingham; 1853-53, William Shepherd; 1854, Cruger Walton; 1855, 
Franklin Hoag; 1856, Daniel W. Culver; 1857, James M. Marvin; 1858, William T. 
Odell; 18.59, William Cary; 1860, Alexander H. Palmer; 1861-63, Joseph Baucus; 
1863, George (i. Scott; 1864, Horatio S. Brown; 1865-66, Tabor B. Reynolds; 1867, 
Hire Jones; 1868-70. William V. Clark; 1871, Austin L. Reynolds; 1872. Nicholas J. 
Clute; 1873, David T. Lamb; 1874, James M. Marvin; 1875, William V. Clark; 1876, 
George G. Scott; 1877, Thomas Noxon ; 1878, Henry C. Vandenburgh; 1879, George 
G. Scott; 1880-81, Nathaniel M. Boughton ; 1883, Thomas Noxon; 1883, John H. De 
Ridder; 1884, Bartlett B. Grippin; 1885, George W. King; 1886, B. B. Grippin; 1887, 
John E. Gage; 18.88, Hector A. McRae; 1889-90, Charles W. Spaulding; 1891, Lewis 
W. Hamlin ; 1893, Daniel Washburn ; 1893, James M. Ostrander ; 1894, Eli M. Powell ; 
1895, Emmor J. Caldwell; 1896, Frederick H. Beach; 1897, Francis J. Dunn. 

C/e/i-s.^nn-lldl, Cornelius Vandenburgh; 1798, Elisha Powell; 1799-1801, 
Jacob Fort, jr. ; 1803-1811, Jonathan Kellogg; 1812-1840. Alpheus Goodrich; 1841, 
Horace Goodrich; 1842-1843, Callender Beecher; 1844, J. Oakley Nodyne; 1845. 
Callender Beecher; 1846, Reuben Westcot; 1847, Harmon Rockwell; 1848, Zopher I. 
Delong ; 1849. Reuben Westcot ; 1850, John A. Corey ; 1851, Joseph L. Snow ; 1852, John 
A. Corey; 1853, Seymour Chase; 1854, E. J. Huling; 1855-1856, Abraham Marshall; 
l.s,57, Abel Meeker; 1858-1859, David Maxwell; 1860, Jerome B. Buckbee ; 1861, 
Abraham Marshall; 1862, Alexander H. Palmer; 1863, David Maxwell; 1864-1.S67, 
John A. Corey; 1868-1870, David Maxwell; 1871-1872, Benjamin S. Robinson; 1873, 

* By the Legislative reapportionment of 18!)2 .Saratoga county was made one assembly district 
instead of being divided into two districts. 



STATISTICS. 471 

David Maxwell; 1874, David S. Baker; 1S75, B. S. Robinson; 187G, Henry H. Baker; 
1877, Ira L. Moore; 1878, Silas H. Torrey ; 1879, William S. Waterbury; 1880-1883, 
J. Frank Terry; 1883, S. H. Torrey; 1884-1885, James A. Burnham; 1886, Edward 
F. Grose; 1887-1888, William W. Sweet; 1889-1890, John Person; 1891-18i)2, Harry 
P. Pendrick; 1893-1895, Charles Clapp ; 1896-1897, Benjamin S. Robinson. 

INCORPORATED COMPANIES. 

F'ollowingis a list of the incorporated companies liable to taxation in 
Saratoga county and the total value of the real and personal estate 
owned by each : 

Towns. Name of Corporation. 

Ballston Episcopal parsonage § 2,000 

Saratoga County creamery 1,000 

Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad Co 52, 000 

Saratoga & Schenectady Railroad Co 110,000 

Western Union Telegraph Co __ 1,462 

American Rapid Telegraph Co 910 

Hudson River Telephone Co. __ __ __ 1,010 

Charlton American Telegraph and Telephone Co. 1,500 

Clifton Park Episcopal Mission 500 

Union Hall.. 400 

National State Bank, Troy 800 

Re.xford's Flats Bridge Co 4,000 

Schenectady and Saratoga Railroad Co 27,838 

Rensselaer & Saratoga Rail road Co 20,799 

Del. & Hud. Canal Co., Mech. and Schenectady Branch 93,118 

Boston, Hoosac Tunnel & Western Railroad Co 109,700 

South Malta Water Company 2,000 

Western Union Telegraph Co .500 

Western Union, Schenectady and Saratoga Branch 1 34 

American Telegraph Co 409 

American Long Distance Telegraph & Telephone Co. 0,720 
American Long Distance Tel. & Tel Co., Sar. Branch 

• or Loop 1,725 

Corinth Delaware & Hudson Canal Co., Adirondack Division.. 24,706 

Saratoga, Lake George & Mt. McGregor Railroad Co. 800 

Saratoga, Lake George & Adirondack Telegraph Co. 700 

Hudson River Long Distance Telephone Co 450 

Hudson River Pulp & Paper Co : 344,455 

The Dunn Water Supply Co 3,325 

German American Club House 1,500 

Edinburgh Adirondacck Telegraph Co 50 

Saratoga & Sacandaga Telegraph Co 50 

Edinburgh Wooden Ware Co. 1,000 



472 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Gahvay. Amsterdam Reservoir Co. _ 30,000 

American Telegraph Co 100 

Gahvay Co-operative Creamery. 550 

Greenfield.- Adirondack Railroad Co..... 27,150 

Mt. McGregor & Lake George Railroad 1,500 

Adirondack, Lake George & Saratoga Telegraph Co.. 760 

Hudson River Telephone Co 560 

Grant Lodge No. 195, I. O. G. T... 400 

Greenfield Centre Lodge No. 308, L O. O. F 500 

St. John's Lodge No. 22, F. & A. M 600 

Middle Grove Hall, No. 476, L O. O. F 400 

Hadley Delaware cS: Hudson Railroad, Adirondack Division.. 44,800 

Adirondack & Lake George Telegraph Co 300 

Adirondack Novelty Co 500 

Hadley Pulp Co 5,000 

Halfmoon Cohoes Company 5,800 

Half moon Bridge Co... 14,100 

The Fiberite Co 3.500 

Saratoga Brewing Co 18,000 

Mechanicville Manufacturing Co 600 

Union Creamery Co 1,200 

Mechanicville Brick Co... 10,500 

Standard Oil Co 1,000 

Presbyterian Church 1,500 

Delaware & Hudson Canal Co 305,000 

Fitchburg Railroad Co 75,000 

Stillwater & Mechanicville Street Railway Co 3,000 

Mechanicville Knitting Co 17,000 

Tenendaho Knitting Co 20,000 

American Telegraph & Telephone Co 3,300 

Hudson River Telephone Co 2,000 

Western Union Telegraph Co 5,186 

Postal Telegraph Co 1,441 

LTnion Paper Company of New York... 2,500 

Malta -Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad Co 90,000 

Round Lake Association 220,000 

Dunning Street Parsonage 800 

Western Union Telegraph Co 2,300 

Commercial Union Telegraph Co 1,600 

American Telegraph & Telephone Co 2,500 

Hudson River Telephone Co 600 

Milton Artesian Spring Co... 2,000 

First National Bank 13,000 

Ballston Spa National Bank 5,000 

Ballston Terminal Electric Railroad Co 10,000 

Ballston Electric Light Co 17,000 

Baptist Church, old 1,800 



STATISTICS. 473 

Catholic Parsonage. _ 3,000 

Presbyterian Church 3,000 

Stone Church Parsonage SSO 

Delaware& Hudson Canal Co.. 80,000 

Rock City Paper Co 30,500 

Glens Falls Insurance Co 12,100 

National Folding Box & Paper Co 30,000 

American Axe & Tool Co 79,450 

Western Union Telegraph Co.. 1,222 

American Rapid Telegraph Co 660 

Postal Telegraph Co 120 

Hudson River Telephone Co 3,470 

Kayaderosseras Lodge No. 270, I. O. O. F 3,000 

Moreau Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad Co 88,000 

Mt. McGregor Railroad Co .. 5,500 

Glens Falls, Sandy Hill & Fort Edward Street Rail- 
way Co 3,500 

Glens Falls Paper Mill Co 420,000 

Morgan Lumber Co 34,800 

Morgan Lime Co. 7,600 

Western Union Telegraph Co 325 

Postal Telegraph Co. 700 

Hudson River Telephone Co 850 

Hudson River Boom Co 5,000 

Sandy Hill Power Co.... 15,575 

Fort Edward Water Works 7,500 

Northumberland... Rensselaer & Saratoga Railroad, Branch of D. & H,. 70,000 

Rensselaer& Saratoga Railroad, Hudson River Branch. 2,000 

Thompson Pulp Co 600 

Western Union Telegraph Co 400 

Commercial Telegraph Co 500 

Fort Miller Bridge Co 5,000 

Providence Kenneyetto Reservoir 500 

Saratoga .Consolidated Electric Co 1,200 

Fitchburg Railroad Co 50,070 

Saratoga Victory Manufacturing Co 270,500 

Saratoga Lake Bridge Co 2,900 

Schuylerville Bridge Co... 5,100 

Schuylerville Paper Co... 22,375 

Saratoga Creamery 500 

Church of the Visitation 2,600 

Crippen- Russell Co 1,200 

Hudson River Telephone Co 200 

Western Union Telegraph Co 550 

Saratoga Springs Delaware & Hudson Canal Co 364,000 

Adirondack Railroad Co 27,600 

Fitchburg Railroad Co '. 33,750 



474 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Saratoga & Mt. McGregor Railroad Co 1,800 

First National Bank 28,440 

Citizens National Bank. 39,000 

First National Bank of Schuylerville .-_ 2,.'3.')0 

Saratoga Gas and Electric Company -._ 34,500 

Congress Spring Co _ 83,850 

Empire Spring Company 12,000 

Geyser Spring Company 13,750 

Saratoga Star Spring Company 6,300 

Saratoga Sprudell Spring Company _ 750 

Victoria Spring Company _. 3,750 

Vichy Si:)ring Company _ 10,500 

Albany Savings Institution , 1,800 

American Telegraph and Telephone Company 1,800 

Commercial Union Telegraph Company 750 

Hudson River Telephone Company 3,000 

Christian Alliance Association 7,950 

Glens Falls Insurance Company 9,300 

Saratoga Ass'n for Improvement of Breed of Horses.. 45,000 

George F. Harvey Company 9,000 

Champion Natural Carbonic Acid Gas Co 0,000 

Geyser Natural Carbonic Acid Gas Co 12,000 

New York Carbonic Acid Gas Co 12,000 

Hecla Compressed Gas Co 750 

Saratoga Natural Carbonic Acid Gas Co 13,200 

Lincoln Spnng Co 9,000 

Saratoga Traction Co 1 8,000 

Standard Oil Co 1,500 

Western Union Telegraph Co 2,250 

Saratoga Club 7,500 

Stillwater Fitchburg Railroad Co 150,000 

Delaware & Hudson Canal Co _ 3,000 

Stillwater and Mechanicville Street Railway Co 15, .500 

First National Bank of Mechanicville 500 

Mechanicville Bridge Co 12,800 

Stillwater and Schaghticoke Bridge Co 6,000 

Best Brick Co 10,000 

Mechanicville Reservoir 10,000 

EmpireState Paper Co 1,000 

Harvester and Fertilizer Co. 2,500 

Augustinian Catholic Society.. 2,000 

Commercial Union and Postal Telegraph and Tele- 
phone Co 1,100 

Hudson River Telephone Co 1,100 

The Duncan Co 410,811 

Waterford .Delaware & Hudson Canal Co 90,000 

Troy City Railroad Co.. 13,100 



STATISTICS. 



475 



Wilton _ 



Cohoes Savings Institution __ 500 

American Fire Engine Co ___ 5,250. 

Augustinian Society of New York 1,500 

Episcopal Church__. 1,525 

Beacon Electric Co __ 1,300 

Cohoes Electric Light Co 400 

Cohoes Co 19,250 

Hudson Valley Knitting Co. 13,000 

Himes Underwear Co 20,000 

Kavanaugh Knitting Co 18,000 

Mohawk & Hudson Manufacturing Co. 21,300 

Novelty Knitting Co 1,000 

Ormsby Textile Co 14,500 

Waterford Knitting Co. ___ 20,000 

Trio Co G,700 

American Telegraph and Telephone Co 1 , 500 

Postal Telegraph Co 800 

Western Union Telegraph Co... 1,200 

Hudson River Telephone Co. 50O 

Troy Telephone and Telegraph Co 1,200 

Troy Gas Co... ___ 950 

Union Bridge Co _ 29,500 

Village of Green Island 200 

Waterford Water Works Co 16,000 

.Delaware & Hudson Railroad Co _. 125,000 

Mt. McCJregor Railroad Co 15,000 

Western Union Telegraph Co 1,430 

Postal Telegraph Co goo 

Blue Mountain Lake Telegraph Co. 412 

Hudson River Telephone Co _ §50 

National bank of Schuylerville 2,000 

Phoenix Life Insurance Co. ^q 

Clyde Knitting Co 7 QOO 

Ford Manufacturing Co _. 12 500 

Total $4,908,303 



Pkopertv Assessment. 

The following is the table of equalized assessment for Saratoga 
county in 1807 : 

Real Total 

Towns. Acres. Real. Personal. Total. Equalized. Etiualized. 

Ballston 17,290 §1,050,407 5139,300 $1,189,707 $995,793 §1,135,093 

Charlton 20,230 .523,445 122,282 045,727 590,937 713,219 

Clifton Park 29,840 1,371,903 204,177 1,570,080 1,428,185 1.032,302 

Corinth 30,200 004,076 14.500 619,170 422,143 430,643 

Day.- 40,719 75,940 6,125 82,005 39,881 46,000 



470 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLK. 



Real Total 

Towns. Acres. Real. Personal. Total. Equalized. Equalized. 

Edinburgh 37.034 115,049 13,758 129,407 03,227 70,985 

Galway 28,482 447,040 43.525 491,105 440,400 489,931 

Greenfield 42,458 400,992 21,200 488,198 395,454 410,000 

Hadley 22,581 245,025 3,800 248,825 100,173 103,973 

Ilalfmoon 20,424 1,910,150 157,450 2,073,000 1,880,881 2,038,331 

Malta 10,515 721,900 101,775 823,675 008,130 709,905 

Milton 22,154 1,880,207 387.310 2,273,517 1,802,324 2,249,634 

Moreau 24,959 1,040,403 13,750 1,054,213 702,383 770,183 

Northumberland. 20,592 397,900 34,700 432,000 426,501 401,201 

Providence. 25,025 08,876 3,409 72,285 44,819 48,228 

Saratoga 24,465 1.373,475 88,340 1,401,815 1,271,153 1,359,493 

Saratoga Springs 15 201 6,984,9,50 498,810 7,483,700 7,940,501 8,439,371 

Stillwater .24,750 1,905,050 274.287 2,179,343 1,880,842 2,155,129 

Waterford 3,733 1,408,945 62,400 1,471,345 1,401,132 1,523,532 

Wilton 22,412 370,783 0,550 377,333 355.517 352,007 

Total .495,800 §22,976,442 $2,197,454 $25,173,890 $22,976,442 $25,173,896 



CENSUS STATISTICS. 

The eleventh census of the United States (1890) gave the population 
of Saratoga county as follows, compared with the census of 1880: 

1890. ISSO. 

Saratoga county 57,003 55,156 

Ballston town, including part of Ballston Spa village 2,059 2,035 

Ball.ston Spa village (part of) 1 508 383 

Total for Ballston Spa village, in Ballston and Milton towns 3,527 3,011 

Charlton town. 1,175 1,474 

Clifton Park town 2,228 2,454 

Corinth town, including Corinth village 2,124 1,737 

Corinth village 1,222 510 

Day town 852 1,238 

Edinburgh town 1,203 1,523 

Galway town, including Galway village 1,035 1,902 

Galway village 1 177 187 

Greenfield town 2,109 2,448 

Hadley town 1,103 1,095 

Halfmoon town, including part of Mechanicville village. 3,732 3,102 

Mechanicville village (part of) 1,890 750 

Total for Mechanicville village, in Halfmoon and Stillwater towns 2,679 1,205 

Malta town 1.285 1,234 

Milton town, including part of Ballston Spa village 5,820 5,505 

Ballston Spa village (part of) 3 019 2,628 

Moreau town, including South Glens Falls village 2,098 2,555 

South Glens Falls village 1,600 1,083 



STATISTICS. 477 

1800. 1880. 

Northumberland town 1,410 1,583 

Providence town S74 994 

Saratoga town, including Schuylcrville and Victory Mills villages. 3,8.55 4,.539 

Schuylerville village 1,387 1,617 

Victory Mills village 823 1,120 

Saratoga Springs town, including Saratoga Springs village -.13,171 10,830 

Saratoga Springs village 11,975 8,421 

Stillwater town, including part of Mechanicville village and Still- 
water village 3,8G8 3,412 

Mechanicville village (part of) 789 515 

Stillwater village 747 877 

Waterford town, including Waterford village 5,286 4,328 

Wilton town 1,116 1,118 

The population of Saratoga county at each census since 1800 has 
been as follows : 

1800 24,.5C4 1850 45,646 

1810 33,147 1860 51,729 

1820 36,052 1870 51, .529 

1830 38,679 1880 5.5,1.56 

1840 40,553 1890 .57,663 

The census of 1890 contained the following additional statistics re- 
garding the inhabitants of Saratoga county: 

WJt) 1880 18T0 

Native born 49,.5.58 47,570 43,820 

Foreign born 8,105 7,.58G 7,709 

White -..56.877 ,54,404 .50,8:59 

Negro - - 751 739 683 

Native and foreign born and white and colored population, classified 
by sex, 1890: 

Males. Females. 

Native born ...23,941 25,617 

Foreign born 4,085 4,020 

Total native white 23,598 25,212 

Native white (native parents) 17,797 19,034 

Native white (foreign parents) 5,801 6,178 

Foreign white 4,066 4,001 

Total colored' 3G2 424 

Foreign born population, distributed according to country of birth, 
1890: 

Total foreign born, 8,105; born in Canada and Newfoundland, 1,213; Cuba and 
West Indies, 11; Ireland, 3,934; England, 1,309; Scotland, 261 ; Wales, 16 ; Germany, 
714; Austria, 18; Holland, 34; Switzerland, 33; Norway, 13. 

■ Persons of negro descent, Chinese, Japanese and civilized Indians. 



478 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Persons of school, militia and voting ages, by sex, general nativity 
and color, 1890: 

All ages — males, 28,026; females, 29,637. Five to twenty years, inclusive — native 
white males, 7,732; females, 8,336; foreign white males, 345; females, 433; colored 
males, 108; females, 110. Males eighteen to forty four years inclusive — native white, 
9,400; foreign white, 1,788; colored, 158. Males, twenty-one years and over — native 
white, 13.331; foreign white, 3,697; colored, 233. 

Total dwellings and families, and persons to a dwelling and to a fam- 
ily, 1890: 

Total number of dwellings, 12,301; total number of families, 13,467; number of 
persons to a dwelling, 4.73; number of persons to a familj', 4.28. 



PART li. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



BIOGRAPHICAL 



THE THOMPSON FAMILY. 

Since vSaratoga's early days, long before it became a county, the 
Thompson family has been identified with its history. From sturdy 
Scotch ancestry, courageous, intelligent and upright, they had inherited 
qualities valuable alike to pioneers and the land of their adoption. 
Never seeking office, believing always that "the office should seek the 
man," four generations have held responsible offices in the county. 
Never forgetting that "a public office is a public trust," they con- 
scientiously performed the duties of their positions, regardless of any 
sacrifice of popular favor or private interest. Their ancestors were 
among those Scotch families who early in the seventeenth century left 
Argyleshire and settled in Ireland in the Province of Ulster. 

King James I who held the millions acres of land, confiscated after a 
rising of his rebellious Irish subjects, offered tempting inducements to 
these Scotch Presbyterians to migrate, hoping to promote peace and 
order by introducing a law-abiding element. A company from London 
had rebuilt the ancient city of Derry, destroyed by war, and called it 
Londonderry, to which Londonderr}^ New Hampshire, owes its name. 

The migration from Scotland began in 1612, and later the colony had 
an accession of those determined Scotch Covenanters who, during the 
reign of James II, suffered brutal persecution from Claverhouse. 

Unhappily the peace and religious liberty they hoped for was not to 
be found in Ulster. They were undaunted by the frequent attacks of 
their turbulent Irish neighbors and fought heroically in defense of 
Londonderry during the famous siege of 1689, but when, after several 
generations, they still found themselves not in accord with the neigh- 
boring Catholics, and deprived of their civil and religious rights by the 
arbitrary laws and exactions in favor of the Established Church of 
England, they resolved to seek in America a refuge from oppression. 

31 



483 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

A memorial dated March 36, 1718, and signed by the leading men of 
this Scotch colony, was sent to Governor Shute of New Hampshire by 
"our trusty and well beloved Friend, the Reverend William Boyd," 
whom " we doe commissionate and appoint" to express "our hearty 
inclination to transport ourselves to that very excellent and renowned 
Plantation upon our obtaining from his Excellency suitable encourage- 
ment. " Among the signers were James, Robert, William and John 
Thompson. Nine subscribers were " ministers of the Gospel." Three 
others were "graduates of the University in Scotland." This docu- 
ment is still preserved. Naturally, Governor Shute sent every encour- 
agement to such very desirable immigrants, who as soon as possible 
converted their property into money and set sail. 

On August 4;th of the same year five ships arrived in Boston Harbor 
bringing a band of pilgrims to whose indomitable spirit, intelligent and 
high principle America owes more of her prosperity and fine traits of 
national character than can ever be estimated. They were of a race 
quite distinct from the English Puritans. 

From Boston, parties (always under the leadership of their beloved 
ministers) sought homes in various places. The Thompsons helped to 
found the new Londonderry, and afterwards, with others, removed to 
Litchfield where another settlement was formed. 

In 1763 peace between England and France was declared. The 
Colony of New York, relieved of the danger from the cruel Indian 
allies of the French, offered advantages. 

General Schuyler used his influence to attract desirable neighbors. 
Stillwater was between his two homes. In that year, to Stillwater in 
the Saratoga Patent came several families who became prominent in 
that locality and whose descendants still live there. New homes were 
made, and a house of worship, the " Yellow Meeting House," built as 
soon as possible. The Thompson family was one of the first to arrive. 
One of its members — a boy of fourteen — was destined to take an active 
part in the development of the new country, then not far from a wilder- 
ness. John Thompson's father, after establishing his family in a com- 
fortable home, and securing to his son the best educational advantages 
within reach, died before the guns of an invading army disturbed the 
the peace of Stillwater. His son John, trained to a strong sense of 
duty as a citizen, bore his part manfully in the stirring events which 
followed. At an early age he married Fanny MacFarland, also of 
Scotch descent, whose ancestors came with his own to America. He 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 4S8 

took her to the Stillwater house, where they reared a family of seven 
children, teaching them " to fear God, love their country and help their 
neighbors." On this pleasant home farm they acquired the love of 
nature and agriculture which not one of them ever lost. 

But the exigencies of the times took the younghusband and father often 
away from his family. He was too ardent a patriot to remain inactive 
during the Revolutionary war, and was made captain of the company 
in which he and some of the neighbors enlisted. Fortunately he was 
spared to serve his country in times of peace. In 1788 when Stillwater 
township was organized, he was appointed one of its first justices. In 
that year and in 1789 he was a member of the State Assembly. 

In 1791, when Saratoga took its place as a county, Governor Clinton 
appointed John Thompson "First Judge," which ofifice he held for 
eighteen years until 1809 when he reached the age of sixty, the limit 
fixed by law. All contemporary testimony and records prove that he 
was an upright, fearless and impartial judge. Although the study of 
law had not been included in his education, he was so well informed, 
his intelligence so keen and quick and his judgment so sound that no 
fault could be found with his rulings. He was a member of the Con- 
stitutional Convention of 1801, called to review the laws of the State, 
and was elected as a representative to the Si.xth, Tenth and Eleventh 
Congresses. His letters to his son James during these sessions furnish 
most interesting reading now, though yellow with nearly a century's 
age. They throw light on the inner working of parties not only in 
Philadelphia and Washington but also in Saratoga county. While the 
father took pains to keep the son well informed on all subjects of na- 
tional interest, he received from his son constant reports of affairs at 
home. 

In December, 1799, he reaches Philadelphia " at 10 o'clock at night 
after a tiresome journey from New York by stage." While in New 
York he had "conversed with Colonel Burr and other influential men," 
and incidentally brought some important business to the young lawyer 
in Milton. 

This man of direct methods chafes at schemes, delays and wasted 
time. " Little else is done but meeting and adjourning." 

In February, 1800, he sends a paper containing General Washing- 
ton's will "which is thought to be a masterly production. When you 
have perused it to your satisfaction, I wish you to hand it to Child, as 
it may help to fill his paper which may be an object to him." No tel- 



484 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

egrams and daily papers in those days! In April, he writes, "lam 
very sorry to hear from Judge Palmer that a division is likely to take 
place which may injure the Republican interest in our county. There 
ought to be some arrangement made to consolidate the interests of 
Washington and Saratoga counties. I had rather retire in favor of 
Colonel Thomas than to have the Republican' interest broken," but he 
leaves all to the judgment of his son who is " on the spot." Communi- 
cation was very slow then. He adds, " I expect to go to .Seneca Lake 
soon after my return and shall need a good, able saddle horse. As we 
have none fit for that purpose, I wish you to call on Michael Dunning. 
If he can furnish one, I will allow him a reasonable sum on his note, 
but do not engage one until I see it." He could trust the judgment of 
this son of twenty-four in regard to such minor matters as his business 
and political career, but horse flesh is another affair, especially a man's 
own saddle horse! In November, 1800, the seat of government had 
been changed to Washington and it is found "difficult to procure suit- 
able lodgings as the city is but thinly settled." 

One letter, February 17, 1801, is jubilant! " This day at one o'clock 
the speaker declared that Thomas Jefferson was duly elected President 
of the United States." Judge Thompson had greatly feared the success 
of Colonel Burr's machinations. 

In October, 1807, he reaches Washington " after a tedious journey 
by land and water." In 1812 he returned to Stillwater and private life. 
His last years were shadowed by illness, but cheered by the devoted 
care of his family. He died in 1823 in his seventy-fifth year. 

He had the great satisfaction of seeing his children established in 
prosperity, leading useful and honored lives. His son James filled the 
father's former office as first judge of the county. Dr. Nathan Thomp- 
son was a much respected physician in Galway, William a prominent 
lawyer of Ovid, N. Y., and Charles in active business at Seneca Falls. 
One daughter had married Dr. Aaron Gregory of Milton and the other 
Dr. Sears of Stillwater. Both physicians were eminent not only for 
skill, but high character. Those " times that tried men's souls " severely 
tested women's courage. When Mrs. Schuyler was applying the torch 
to her Saratoga wheat-fields — to keep the grain from the British troops 
(a hard alternative for such a thrifty housewife) Mrs. Thompson at 
Stillwater was trying to shield her little family from the coming storm 
of war — almost at her door, her husband exposed to its fury. 

' The Republicans of that time were Jcffersonian Dcu)ocrat.s. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 485 

Wlien the battle of Beinis Heights began to rage, she was placed in 
an ox cart with her babe of three days, and a son not two years old, 
and taken from home for safety. A heav)' rain impeded their progress, 
and these fugitives spent the night under the cart for lack of better 
shelter. By a strange coincidence, at that very time another young 
mother had left in alarm the future home of that little boy in the cart. 
On the Middle Line farm in Milton known later as "the Judge Thomp- 
son place," then lived Josiah Tallmadge, grandfather of Nathaniel 
Mann. His wife was terrified by reports of Hessian cruelties and it was 
found best for her to go to her mother in Dutchess county. The hus- 
band must stay to protect the property, so this "woman of '70" set 
out on a faithful horse carrying with her a child of two years. Alone, 
she made her way through that thinly settled country to her old home 
in Dutchess county, a journey of at least several days. 

When the British and Hessians had been routed, her husband sent 
her assurance that Saratoga was now free from "war's alarms. " Again 
she mounted her trusty steed which brought his mistress safely back — 
this time with two children — -one a j'oung babe. 

Born and bred amid these stirring scenes, James Thompson naturally 
took a deep interest in the events which were making the history of his 
native county. Under his father's influence and training he could but 
feel a deep sense of responsibility for its welfare, and his duty as one 
of its citizens. He finished the course of study at the Scenectady Acad- 
emj' the year before it developed into Union College. Several of his 
classmates were from his own county, one — Joseph Sweetman of Charl- 
ton — was Union's first graduate. 

Local interests were very strong when people lived, studied, labored, 
formed friendships and died near the place of their birth. 

After graduating at Schenectady James Thompson began the study 
of law. Judge Emott was then the shining legal light of the county. 
He had married a daughter of Judge Palmer, and lived at the Palmer 
home on the Middle Line road where it forks to Burnt Hills and Balls- 
ton lake. The stately mansion now standing there was built — after a 
destructive fire — by Rev. Dr. Davis, Judge Emott's son-in-law. The 
judge's office was near by. There James Thompson, Samuel Young, 
Samuel Cook, Daniel L. Van Antwerp and Levi H. Palmer pursued 
their studies together. All were afterwards prominent in county 
affairs, the first two became first judges. 

James Thompson was admitted to the bar soon after attaining his 



486 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

majorit3\ When his father (who had spared no pains or expense in his 
son's education) presented him with a good horse, saddle and saddle- 
bag's, a gold watch and a hundred dollars, the son felt himself gener- 
ously supplied for the battle of life. So he was — in view of the re- 
sources and needs of the time and place. He set out to explore and 
decide upon a good location for the practice of his profession. Dr. 
Gregory induced him to open an office next his own, midway between 
Milton Hill and Milton Centre. 

His professional success was remarkable. Clients came to him at 
once. Within two years this young man — not yet twenty-five — had 
established a hi.gh reputation and a lucrative practice. The Middle 
Line road was then the chief avenue for the business of the county, 
and a highroad between Albany and Canada. Upon it were the finest 
residences of the vicinity. Travelers found well kept " taverns " at 
every few miles. 

At Milton Hill were two churches, an academy, a good "tavern," 
several shops, etc. A much busier place than " Rallstown Springs," 
which was then only an embryo watering place. 

The court house was at "Court House Hill." Lawyers had homes 
and offices for several miles up and down the road. A farm was then 
essential to a comfortable living. These conditions were all changed 
when Ballston Spa became the county seat in 1819. 

In 1802 James Thompson married a daughter of Abel Whalen, one 
of the early and influential residents of Milton. She was the mother 
of his three elder children. He bought the farm on the Middle Line 
road formerly called "the Judge Thompson place," in later years 
" Rose Hill farm." He built first his oflfice, and then from its earnings 
(never a dollar of debt) the house in which he lived and died and which 
is still the home of one of his children. There are no such records as 
old letters! Fortunately Judge Thompson kept many. They now re- 
main to show what his life and reputation were. Clients from all parts 
oi the county asked his counsel. Strangers at a distance confided im- 
portant business to him when he was still quite young. Grateful ap- 
preciation is constantly expressed for his fidelity to the interests of his 
clients. Poor debtors, in prison, seek and get help from him. Widows 
and orphans thank and bless him for saving their homes. His sympa- 
thy and help were counted upon by all sorts and conditions of men in 
all affairs of life. Business began to take him to Troy, Albany, New 
York and other large cities. .Social b}' nature, as his circle of friends 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



487 



enlarged, his home became a gathering place for many eminent and 
interesting people. His hospitality was unbounded, especially to the 
unfortunate. The greater the need, the warmer the welcome. His 
advice was much sought in public affairs. His interest in politics did 
not prevent his refusing several nominations. He was appointed first 
judge of Common Pleas in 1818, which office he held for fifteen years. 





He respected his office and scrupulously maintained its dignity for 
which his own character and bearing eminently fitted him. Few men 
had such personal influence. His intellectual power, energy and firm 
principles gave him weight in the community. His tastes and habits 
were scholarly. When he was to charge a jury, young lawyers came 
for a lesson in clear and forcible diction. He has been called "the 



488 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

father of the Saratoga county bar." No better wish can be made for 
it than that it may prove worthy of such parentage. When his judicial 
career closed in 1833, he allowed himself comparative rest, but his 
active interest in public affairs and the welfare of all about him never 
ceased, especially his fatherly interest in the careers and fortunes of 
younger inen. He had married in 1831 a daughter of Daniel Stans- 
bury of New York city, a woman whose many fine qualities, cultivated 
mind and tastes made his home very attractive. She shared his in- 
terests, and together they were a blessing to their neighborhood. 
Judge Thompson's sudden death in 1845 was a shock and grief to the 
community. Although he had reached the age of seventy, his vigor of 
mind and body was unimpaired. Every possible tribute of respect was 
paid to his memory by his legal associates and the public, and the sor- 
row of friends and neighbors was strikingly shown. He left a widow 
with three young children, beside his elder .sons and daughter. His 
eldest son, George had entered into business at Ballston Spa where he 
died in 1871. He, too, shunned rather than sought office but was 
county treasurer from 1831 to ISi-l. 

Judge Thompson's second son, John Whalen Thompson, born De- 
cember 19, 1808, inherited the mental power of his father and grand- 
father. His education was carefully supervised by his father. Milton 
Hill Academy afforded good training for young students, and later he 
was sent to the Charlton Academy and the famous Lansingburg Acad- 
emy to complete his preparation for college. He graduated with honor 
at Union College in 1827. His i-oommate in college was the Hon. 
Preston King of St. Lawrence county, and there existed between the 
two men an intimate and lifelong friendship. Law being the family 
profession, he began his studies in his uncle William Thompson's office 
at Ovid, N. Y., and finished in the office of Judge Stevens at Seneca 
Falls. In 1831 he was admitted an attorney of the Supreme Court and 
began practice in Ballston Spa, forming soon afterward a partnership 
with Hon. Anson Brown. In May, 1834, Governor Marcy appointed 
John W. Thompson — though very young for the office — surrogate of 
Saratoga county, and that position he held until 1S4G, when the new 
constitution took effect. The recorded testimony of that time shows 
that every duty of this responsible office was performed with scrupulous 
fidelity, intelligent judgment, and to the general satisfaction. Mr. 
Thompson's unusual ability in financial affairs led him early to take a 
deep interest in the organization of the Ballston Spa Bank, of which he 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 489 

was one of the original incorporators in 1838. There was then no other 
bank within convenient distance, and it was a great advantage to the 
village. His reputation for uncompromising integrit)' and conservative 
management were of great advantage to the bank. In 1850 Mr. Thomp- 
son was made president of the bank, and thereafter devoted himself 
to its care and management until his death. He rendered it a very 
successful and sound institution. He was fully recognized by all the 
old bank presidents of this section as an able financier, his knowledge 
of finance embracing both its minutiic and its more abstruse and broader 
principles. In several instances, through correspondence with senators, 
his ideas were adopted and utilized by Congress in the financial legis- 
lation following the Civil war. 

When the building of the Saratoga and Whitehall Railroad was con- 
sidered a hazardous enterprise, Mr. Thompson regarded it differently, 
and by loaning his money and using his efforts did much to accomplish 
its success. 

Reserved and retiring by nature, John W. Thompson avoided rather 
than courted prominence in public affairs. Deeply interested in poli- 
tics, he preferred to quietly exercise his influence rather than actively 
enter the field. Only once, when the town needed him for supervisor, 
did he consent to taking a nomination. He served one term. With 
all his love of retirement and aversion to seeking precedence, he had 
too great mental activity and interest in the welfare of his native 
county to avoid taking an important place in its aft'airs. No citizen 
was more relied upon for sound advice in all public and private enter- 
prises, and many a luckless struggler in a sea of financial difficulties 
was brought into safe harbor by his wise counsel and practical assist- 
ance. His dislike of ostentation and display was great. The accumu- 
lation of wealth never tempted him to alter his simple mode of life. 

He married, early in life, a daughter of Joel Lee, who, after a life of 
devotion to her family and her church, died in 1871. John W.Thompson 
lived to the age of eighty-four and died on June '^8, 189".i, leaving three 
sons and one daughter. His eldest son, George Lee Thompson, suc- 
ceeded his father as president of the Ballston Spa Bank, and like him 
took great interest in politics while i^ef using to hold office, except that 
of supervisor, which he filled for several terms. Ill health compelled 
him to withdraw from active life for some time before his death, which 
occurred on December 29, 1895, in his sixty-first year. Of a very gen- 
erous nature, and having inherited ample means, he found his chief hap- 



490 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

piness in giving pleasure to all about him. The grateful affection of his 
fellow townsmen solaced his last years of illness, and was strongly mani- 
fested at his death. He left a widow and three children. 

When his sister, Alice Thompson, died in Europe in 1898, a noble life 
ended. She had "done good by stealth" in such large measure that 
only her death revealed its extent. Her care for her native village and 
its needs was shown by her bequests. 

John W. Thompson's two younger sons, Samuel and Frank, both live 
at the old homestead. Samuel Thompson served one term as super- 
visor. 



REUBEN HYDE WALWORTH. 

In the history and development of the judiciary of the State of New 
York, Chancellor Walworth' stands pre-eminent as an authority in equity 
law; and by his wisdom and fairness, his profound knowledge, and his 
force of character, he marks an epoch in the legal history of the State, 
and is entitled to that distinction which common usage has attached to 
this terra. To praise him, we call him the last of the chancellors, as 
if, as Plutarch said of another, this Empire State has produced no other 
great equity jurist since that time. We may affirm this as true, and 
say, also, that possibly the dignity of the judiciary has suffered some 
loss in consequence of the absorption of the equity practice into the 
the courts formerly limited to common and statute law. 

The history of the Walworth family is full of interest, on both the 
paternal and maternal sides. The chancellor's great-grandfather, Will- 
iam Walworth, came from England with Governor Winthrop of Con- 
necticut, at his request, about 1680, to make a model farm and show 
the colonists English "methods. Walworth settled on Fisher's Island, 
near New London, where he succeeded with the model farm, and had 
a handsome residence; and, as stated in his will, he had much table 
silver and other valuables. In the latter part of his life the pirates, 
then infesting the eastern shore of Long Island, caused so many alarms 
at Fisher's Island, that Walworth bought farms at Groton and other 
places in that vicinity, and moved his family to the mainland. He was 

1 For much of the ni.iterial employed in preparing this sketch the compiler of this work is in- 
debted to a paper read by Mrs. Ellen Hardin Walworth before the New Voi'k Genealogical and 
Biographical Society in 1893. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 491 

a descendant of Sir William Walworth, the Lord Mayor of London 
who killed Wat Tyler and thereby saved the life of King Richard IL 
A representation of the dagger with which he struck Wat Tyler appears 
in the coat-of-arms of the Walworth family, with the motto, "Strike 
for the Laws." From a very ancient time a large district in London 
was named Walworth, and the name still lingers in that region. 

The maternal side of the family shows an illustrious line in this 
country, including a descent from the Winslows and Tracys, and in the 
Old World a genealogy of twenty-seven generations, carefully traced 
back to Queen Margaret of Scotland, wife of Malcolm IIL, and yet 
further to Queen Clothilde of France. 

Reuben Hyde Walworth was born at Bozrah, Conn., October 26, 1788, 
the third son of Benjamin Walworth. While he was a boy his parents 
moved to Hoosick, Rensselaer county, N.Y. His father was an officer, 
with the rank of major, in the Revolutionary war, in Nicoll's regiment, 
Heath's division. When the young Reuben had finished his studies at 
home he went to Troy and taught school for a short time, when he en- 
tered the law office of John Russell, State's attorney for the northern 
district, who was said to be the best common law practitioner in the 
State. William L. Marcy was one of his fellow students. Mr. Russell 
was impressed with the ability and energy of young Walworth, and 
proposed to introduce him into practice in the northern part of his 
circuit; thus the young lawyer was led to settle in Plattsburgh. He 
quickly acquired a good practice there, and soon had occasion to refuse 
political preferment that would be out of the direct line of his profes- 
sion; but he accepted an appointment as justice of the peace, and later 
one as a master in chancery. In 1818 a new law created the office of 
commissioner to perform certain duties of a judge of the Supreme 
Court, and he was chosen for the place. 

During the war of 1812 he was engaged in the conllict at Plattsburgh, 
with the rank of major, and acquitted himself with marked courage. 
During the military occupation of the town he was selected by General 
Wilkinson to act as judge advocate in a difficult case that arose concern- 
ing a British prisoner. After the war Major Walworth was ajjpointed 
division judge advocate, with the rank of colonel. 

In 1821 he consented to run for Congress, and was elected by a large 
majority. Under amendments made to the constitution of this State 
in 1821, in each district there were appointed certain judges, who not 
only presided in the Court of Oyer and Terminer, but they were made 



492 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

equity judges in each district, under supervision of the cliancellor of 
the State. Colonel Walworth became judge of the fourth district. His 
decisions in this court were pronounced by Judge Cowen to be "able 
and luminous," and of such value as to be included in the State reports, 
although the Circuit Court cases were not a regular part of those re- 
ports. Judge Walworth was appointed chancellor of the State in April, 
1838, when he was thirty-eight years of age, by Governor Clinton. He 
held the office twenty years. He was also ex-officio a member of the 
Court of Errors, and required to review the intricate legal decisions of 
the Supreme Court in cases of dissatisfaction. His decisions as chan- 
cellor are found in fifty two volumes of printed reports and thirty-nine 
books of manuscript. Amendments to the Constitution of the vState 
in 1847 abolished the Court of Chancery, when Chancellor Walworth 
retired. 

About 184:4 the New York delegation in Congress and lawyers out- 
side of Congress presented the name of Chancellor Walworth to Presi- 
dent Tyler to fill a vacancy then existing in the Supreme Court of the 
United States. Tyler sent the name to the Senate, and it was referred 
to the judiciary committee, which delayed making a report. Charles 
O'Connor used to tell some amusing stories of " wire-pulling" in that 
committee. ( )ne of the absurdities related was that, after President 
Tyler had sent the chancellor's name to the Senate, some one told Tyler 
that this Walworth was a descendant of that Sir William Walworth who 
killed his (President Tyler's) progenitor, Wat Tyler, and thereupon the 
president withdrew the chancellor's name. The real cause was in one 
of those curious combinations that are peculiar to New York politics. 

After Chancellor Walworth's retirement his counsel was sought from 
all parts of the country, and as referee in cases from the Supreme Court 
of the United States he held his court at his homestead in Saratoga, 
where cases were argued by such men as William II. Seward, Blatch- 
ford, Butler, Daniel Lord, and other distinguished lawyers. 

Of this great man's ability Judge Story said: "Walworth is the 
greatest equity jurist now living. " Chancellor Kent, in his Commen- 
taries, referring to Walworth's decisions, said: " I am proud of my own 
native State." Professor Dane of Harvard said: " No court was ever 
under the guidance of a judge purer in character or more gifted in 
talent than Reuben Hyde Walworth, the last chancellor of New York." 

While residing at Plattsburgh Chancellor Walworth married Maria 
Ketchum Avery. They had four daughters and two sons, the latter 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 493 

being- Rev. Clarence A. Walworth of Albany, N. Y., and Mansfield 
Tracy Walworth, the author. Mrs. Walworth died April 24, 1847, and 
Chancellor Walworth subsequently married Sarah Ellen, daughter of 
Horace Smith of Locust Grove and widow of Colonel John J. Hardin. 
She brought with her to Saratoga three children of her first marriage, 
one of whom is the present Mrs. Ellen Hardin Walworth, the noted 
historian and author. 



WINSOR BROWN FRENCH. 

WiNSOR Brown French, the son of Lutherand Lydia Brown French, 
was born in Proctorsville, in the county of Windsor, State of Vermont, 
on the ■iSth day of Jul}', 18.32. His father was a member of an old 
Massachusetts family, and a grandson of Joseph French, a lieutenant 
in the army under Washington, 'residing in Concord, a branch of which 
family settled at an early date in the State of New Hampshire, subse- 
quently Vermont. His mother was Lydia Brown, a descendant of Chad 
Brown of Providence, R. L, and also of Roger Williams, whose 
daughter Mercy married the Rev. Satiiuel Winsor. Their grandson, 
the Rev. Samuel Winsor was the father of Mr. French's grandmother. 
To this family belongs Prof. Justin Winsor, Harvard's famous historian. 

Besides the subject of this sketch there were four brothers and four 
sisters of this family, of whom Dr. Walton W. French, a practicing 
physician in Chattanooga, Tenn., and Mrs. Howard Aldrich, of Chi- 
cago, 111., are now living. 

When he was four years of age his father removed from the village 
of Proctorsville, to the town of Wilton in .Saratoga county, and carried on 
the business of farming during his lifetime, and died in 186-5. Winsor 
attended district school in the town in which he lived, and later Clinton 
Liberal Institute, then one of the most celebrated schools in the State, 
situated at Clinton, N. Y., and continued his studies and was fitted for 
college at Woodstock Academy, Vermont, from which institution he 
entered Tufts College in the State of Massachusetts in the fall of 18.5.5, 
with the class of 1859. His father was unable to furnish the means 
necessary to educate his son, and Winsor was obliged to depend largely 
upon his own energies to accomplish his earnest desire. He taught 
day and singing school winters, and assisted his father summers; 
and in that way was able to push his way through college. He 



494 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

became a member of the Theta Delta Chi Fraternity and lias always 
kept up his interest in the society and the prominent and famous men 
connected therewith, among whom are Col. William L. Stone, the his- 
torian; Secretary of State John Hay; Attorney-General Griggs of 
President McKinley's cabinet and John W. Hammond, judge of the 
Supreme Court of Massachusetts. He took a prominent stand in col- 
lege and graduated with honor, receiving an oration appointment on 
commencement stage. 

After graduation he returned home and began the study of law in the 
village of Saratoga Springs, first with Hon. James B. McKean, and 
later with Messrs. Pond & Lester, then the most prominent lawyers 
in the county. After two years of study and in May, 1861, he was 
admitted to the bar. 

Mr. French had hardly passed his examination when the nation's 
call to arms rang out and he instantly responded. He was instrumental 
in raising Company D of the Seventy-seventh Regiment, New York 
State Volunteers, which became known as the Bemis Heights Battalion. 
He was made captain of his company, but his colonel, James B. Mc- 
Kean, being then a member of Congress, wished some one as adjutant 
who could assist him in his duties as colonel and turned at once to his 
personal friend, the young captain, and requested him to act as his 
adjutant, to which he consented and was mustered in and went as such 
to the front with the regiment on November 23, 1861. 

fin the recommendation of General Davidson, the brigade com- 
mander. Adjutant French was promoted for gallant conduct during the 
" Seven Days Fight " in the front of Richmond, received a Major's com- 
mission and immediately that of Lieutenant-Colonel, and subsequentl}^, 
in July, 1862, that of Colonel of the regiment. 

This regiment formed a part of the Third Brigade, Second Division, 
Sixth Corps of the Army of the Potomac, and was recognized as among 
the best of the army, the brigade having, according to the Mortuary 
Record of the War, written by William Fox, who is a recognized author- 
ity, lost more officers killed in battle than any other brigade in either 
the Federal or Confederate armies. At the battle of Fredericksburg, 
fought in May, 1863, this regiment, led by Colonel French on his horse, 
was in the front line in the celebrated charge on Marye's Heights and 
captured the Lieutenant-Colonel and a portion of a Mississippi regiment, 
together with a battery which commanded the Heights and had made 
sad havoc in the regiment on its advance. While standing on a cap- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 495 

tured cannon the Colonel was complimented by General Neil in the 
following language : "Colonel, write your name on it ! write your name 
on it ! you have won it ! it is yours." And in a few moments after the 
regiment received an unusual commendation from its division command- 
er, General Howe, who i-ode up in its front with his staff and taking 
off his hat said: "Noble Seventy-seventh, to-day you have covered 
yourself with glory." ' 

Colonel French was always a favorite with his command and its love 
for him was particularly manifested when the regiment was at Stone 
House Mountain near the Rapidan river, where he was presented by 
his Line Officers with a beautiful gold mounted sword, on which was 
the Greek inscription: " He fights for his country," and under it were 
the dates and names of some of the battles in which they had been 
engaged. 

At the battle of Fort Stevens, Washington. D. C, Colonel French 
led the charge which drove out Jubal Early and his army and received 
there the first wound of his service. At the battle of Cedar Creek, 
October 18, 1864, he succeeded General Bidwell, the brigade command- 
er, who was killed in that action, and from that time until his muster 
out commanded his brigade, and subsequently received his commission 
as Brigadier-General by Brevet for "gallant and meritorious service 
on the field." The regiment was mustered out of service in Saratoga 
Springs on the 13tli of December, 1864. 

A monument to the regiment stands on Gettysburg battle field with 
this inscription: " Participated in the Campaigns of the Army of the 
Potomac, Fort Stevens, Washington, D. C, and Sheridan's Campaign of 
the Shenandoah Valley." This monument was dedicated on the 17th 
day of October, 1889. General French made a most fitting and eloquent 
presentation address, in which he sums up the three years' record of his 
gallant regiment in the following words: " Saratoga county's favo- 
rite regiment, the Bemis Heights Battalion, has a record of noble 
deeds, without a single blot. It never, by any act in the field, or in the 
camp, on the march, or in the fight, disgraced the county from which 
it was sent. It never flinched or wavered from any duty, however 
perilous, which was assigned to it, nor until ordered to do so, did it 
ever turn its back upon the foe. From the beginning to the end of its 
service the regiment bore its colors untouched by the hand of the 
enemy. They were often shattered and torn by shot and shell, often 

' " Three Years in the Sixth Corps," p. 197, George T. Stevens. 



496 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

levelled to the dust by the death or wounds of the bearers, but they 
were always kept sacred and on the muster out of the regiment were 
deposited in the Bureau of Military Statistics at Albany." 

During its service the regiment had accumulated a Regimental Fund 
of $500 which by vote of its members was at the time of its muster out 
put into the hands of Colonel French to be disposed of as he deemed best 
for the regiment. He at once put the same at interest and in ten years 
it became doubled, and together with voluntary contributions of patri- 
otic citizens of Saratoga Springs was used in the erection of the mon- 
ument now standing on Monument Square in said village, dedicated to 
the memory of the " Seventy-seventh Regiment, New York State Vol- 
unteers. " 

During all the years since his muster out General French has taken 
an active part in military matters connected with the Civil war. He 
was one of the charter members of Grand Army Post Wheeler No. 92, 
of Saratoga Springs, and several times its commander. He became 
early a member of the New York Chapter of the Society of the Loyal 
Legion, and the Society of the Army of the Potomac. The Gen- 
eral may be seen almost daily, well mounted, galloping over the 
country as erect as a young officer, sitting in the same saddle that bore 
him in the thick of the fight in so many battles in the war of the Re- 
bellion. The military spirit of the general is manifest in his son, Win- 
sor P., who went out as a private in the Twenty-second Separate Com- 
pany of Saratoga Springs, Company L, New York State Volunteers, in 
the Spanish War. He was promoted to a second lieutenancy in the 
Two Hundred and First Regiment, New York State Volunteers. 

Soon after his muster out and in April, 18G5, General French re- 
sumed his law practice and entered into partnership with his former 
preceptor, Hon. Alembert Pond. He was admitted to practice in the 
Supreme, District and Circuit Courts of the United States, and has ever 
since been and now is an active lawyer in his profession. His part- 
nership with Mr. Pond continued until 1888, a portion of the time Hon. 
Edgar T. Brackett, now State Senator, was a member of the firm; and 
the practice carried on by it was of a general character extending 
through all the courts and became very large and lucrative. 

He was elected District Attorney of .Saratoga county in 1888 and held 
the office for three years, and was pressed for renomination, but de- 
clined it owing to the large and laborious civil practice of his firm. 
During his service as district attorney he caused the arrest of one 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 497 

Henry Ray, a member of the State Legislature, on an attachment 
issued under the direction of Justice Piatt Potter of the Supreme 
Court because of his refusal to obey a subpoena; and had Ray brought 
to the Court House in Ballston Spa to testify in a criminal proceeding. 
This arrest occasioned great excitement in the Legislature and out of 
it grew the famous Breach of Privilege Case, wherein the Legislature 
undertook, but signally failed to establish the doctrine, that the power 
of the legislative branch of the government was superior to that of 
the judicial. The case attracted widespread interest in the courts and 
among the legal profession throughout the country and is reported in 
the Appendix to Barbour's vSupreme Court Reports, Vol. 55. 

jMr. French withdrew from the firm of Pond, French & Brackett in 
1888 and has since continued his practice alone, except, about three 
years when Will W. .Smith was associated with him. His office is sit- 
uated in his own building, Nos. 7 and 8 French Building, Saratoga 
Springs. Mr. French has always been prominent before the courts and 
juries, demonstratmg the characteristics of a careful, painstaking law- 
yer, extremely loyal to his profession, and displaying in his practice 
that dignit)' and courtliness that becomes a gentleman. 

In politics Mr. French has always been a Republican and most earn- 
est and energetic in the success of his party, taking a prominent stand 
as a platform speaker. He was a prominent candidate for the nomi- 
nation of judge of Saratoga county in 1888, and in 1893 was a candidate 
for the nomination for member of congress from the Twenty-second 
district, composed of Saratoga, St. Lawrence, Fulton and Hamilton 
counties. Over thirteen hundred ballots were taken, Mr. French and 
General Curtis of St. Lawrence being opposing candidates. No nom- 
ination was made by this Congressional convention. Subsequently 
General Curtis was nominated by petition, Mr. French having with- 
drawn from the contest. In 1896 Mr. French was a McKinley and Ho- 
bart Presidential Elector and cast his vote as a member of the Electoral 
College held at Albany January 11, 1897, for McKinley and Hobart. 
He was appointed by President McKinley, postmaster of the village of 
Saratoga Springs, confirmed by the United States Senate, and received 
his commission as such on the 10th day of March, 1899. 

Mr. French has always been deeply interested in religious work He 

is a member of the Bethesda Episcopal church and one of its wardens. 

He is also prominent in all philanthropic matters, being president of 

the board of trustees of the Church Aid and of the Home of the Good 

32 



498 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Shepherd. He is also president of the Society for the Prevention of 
Cruelty to Children and of Cruelty to Animals, and an officer of the 
Saratoga Athenaeum since its organization; taking an active interest in 
matters relating to the welfare of the whole community. 

General French's family consists of his wife, a daughter of the late 
Wm. A. Shepard, daughter Georgiana, wife of J. Andrew Harris, jr., 
treasurer of the Lehigh Valley Railroad, and two sons, Winsor P., at 
present attending the Albany Law School, preparatory to joining his 
father in the practice of his profession ; and William A. Shepard, a lad 
of eleven years of age attending the public school. 



EDGAR T. BRACKETT. 

Hon. Edgar Truman Brackett stands pre-eminent among the bar of 
Saratoga county; born at Emerson's Corners in the town of Wilton, 
Saratoga county, July 30, 1853, son of William and Elizabeth Ann 
(vSherman) Brackett, our subject is seventh in descent of Capt. Rich- 
ard Brackett who came from Scotland to Boston in 1629. In childhood 
he accompanied his parents to Mount Vernon, Linn county, Iowa, 
where, he remained until he had attained man's estate. In 1873 he was 
graduated from Cornell College at Mount Vernon, a denominational 
institution of learning under the management of the Methodist Episco- 
pal church. In September of that year he removed to Saratoga 
Springs, which has since been his home, and began the study of law 
in the office of Pond & French. In June, 1875, he was admitted to the 
bar at the General Term of the Supreme Court at Elmira, and in the 
same month the degree of Master of Arts was also conferred upon him 
by his Alma Mater, which later in 1898 also granted to him the degree 
of LL. D. The following spring he became the junior member of the 
law firm of Pond, French & Brackett, which continued for twelve 
years, and later he became the head of the firm of Brackett, Butler & 
Baucus. In 1895 Mr. Brackett was elected to the New York State 
Senate on the Republican ticket, from the Twenty-eighth district, 
comprising the counties of Saratoga, Schenectady and Washington, by 
a vote of 18,558; his principal opponent, Charles O. McCreedy, Democrat, 
of Ballston Spa, polling 10,117 votes. He took prominent rank in the 
councils of his party and in the work of the Senate. In 1898, at the time 
of this writing, he was renominated by acclamation by the Republican 




/f. /oLo/cuy/tr. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 499 

party for the second term. He is recognized as one of the strong fac- 
tors of his party in the State and his influence is very potential. 

Senator Brackett is now practicing his profession alone in Saratoga 
Springs, and his practice is very large and lucrative, his counsel with 
other attorneys being extensive. It is as a lawyer that Mr. Brackett 
finds his delight, and as a lawyer is best known rather than as a poli- 
tician. He is thoroughly grounded in the philosophy of the law and 
stands among the really eminent lawyers of New York. He has par- 
ticipated in many of the causes celebrc, which have shed lustre on the 
bar in Northern New York. Perhaps his most noted triumph was his 
successful defense of (ien. Austin Lathrop, superintendent of State 
prisons, against charges of malfeasance preferred against him to the 
governor in 1895-6. His work in this case was masterful and resulted 
in the dismissal of the charges and the complete exoneration of his 
client. 

On the 32d of November, 1883, Mr. Brackett was married to Mary 
Emma Corliss, daughter of the late Charles Corliss of Providence, R. I. 
They have two sons, Edgar Truman, jr., and Charles William. 



WILLIAM A. SACKETT. 

Emerson has said that "biography is the only true history," and it 
is manifest that that history is most worthy of preservation which em- 
bodies the biographies of men who have left the world better than they 
found it. For this grand reason the history of the fruitful life of Hon. 
William A. Sackett is eminently worthy of the most con.scientious rec- 
ord and most careful preservation, for the memory of his sterling char- 
acter remains vividly in the minds of all who knew him and his splen- 
did public services are inscribed in the chronicles of the nation whose 
civilization he helped to elevate to a higher plane. 

William A. Sackett was born near Auburn, Cayuga county, N. Y., 
November 18, 1811, and was educated in private schools and at Aurora 
Academy. He selected law for his profession and studied first in the 
office of Judge Luther F. Stevens of Seneca Falls, and later with San- 
ford & Kellogg of Skaneateles. He was admitted to the bar in 1831 
and for the following seventeen years was actively engaged in the prac- 
tice of his profession at Seneca Falls. In 1848 he was elected to Con- 
gress from the district composed of Seneca and Wayne counties. New 



500 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

York. He represented his district in Congress until 1853 and was a 
member of the committee on revolutionary pensions. But while in 
Congress he distinguished himself most, and identified himself conspic- 
uously with the great march of American sentiment and civilization by 
his speeches against the extension of slavery into the territories of the 
United States, and also by his support of the bill to admit California 
into the Union. 

At the expiration of his Congressional term he removed to Saratoga 
Springs, which he made his permanent residence, and resumed the 
practice of his profession. Here he at once achieved distinction by his 
masterly defense of Corning&Co., defendants in the celebrated "Spike 
case." This case had come into the courts in 1848 and was a suit 
against Erastus Corning and others by the Troy Iron and Nail Factory, 
to recover eleven hundred thousand dollars for alleged infringement of 
patents. Mr. Sackett conducted the case for the defense and with such 
ability that only a nominal amount of damages was awarded. 

Previous to the organization of the Republican part)' in 1855 Mr. 
Sackett had been a Whig, but went with that party into the Republi- 
can ranks, as its platform embraced the prominent principles he had 
always advocated, particularly the abolition of slavery. After the en- 
actment of the United States Bankrupt law he was appointed Register 
in Bankruptcy under President Lincoln and from this office actpiired 
the title of judge because of the judicial character of the register's 
office. 

He was always active and zealous in support of the Republican party 
and was indefatigable in his efforts to promote the best interests of 
Saratoga Springs. In 1884 he was a member of the committee of 
twenty-one citizens who were appointed by the taxpayers to revise the 
village charter and to propose amendments which would render the 
charter better adapted to the requirements of the municipality. To 
this task he gave a great deal of care and spent much time in studying 
the existing charter and planning new provisions. The report of the 
committee suggested some radical changes and a distinct enlargement 
of the village government. Although the public mind was unable at 
the time to realize the advantages of the proposed legislation, Judge 
Sackett finally saw his wise propositions embodied in the village 
charter. 

In 1876 Judge Sackett married Miss Mary Louise Marvin, daughter 
of the late Judge Thomas J. Marvin, and in the same year they began a 
trip abroad which extended over a period of three years. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 501 

The letters written by Judge Sackett during his travels reveal the 
man of culture, penetration and broadly philosophical mind. These 
letters Vi'ere published in different American journals and are valuable 
reminiscences of the observations and reflections of a bright intellect 
on subjects of world-wide interest. In this tour all the principal cities 
of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales were visited, as well as those 
of Continental Europe, while the famous cathedrals and old castles re- 
ceived particular attention. Russia, Turkey, Greece, Tunis and Algiers 
were visited, also Egypt and the Holy Land. These latter countries, 
hallowed by the charm of Scripture story, had for him a peculiar inter- 
est and his visit to them was greatly enjoyed. The ruins of Egyptian 
civilization, which perished before Christendom began, and the habits of 
the people of to-day were closely studied. A trip of one thousand miles 
was made up the Nile and then the ever interesting land of Palestine 
was traversed and dwelt upon with an earnestness that is vividly reflect- 
ed in the able letters already mentioned. 

Judge Sackett was always a sincere Christian and in his early life at- 
tended the Presbyterian church. Later in life he became a member of 
the Episcopal church, serving for many years as vestryman and church 
warden in Bethesda Parish, Saratoga Springs, N. Y. He often repre- 
sented this parish in the Archdeaconry of Troy and in the conventions 
of the Diocese of Albany, and was universally esteemed by clergy and 
laity. 

Although he took great interest in public afl^airs. Judge Sackett was 
essentially a home man. He was the father of seven children through 
his first and second marriages. Of the.se three are living, namely, ICd- 
ward S. Sackett, a lawyer of vSeneca FalLs, N. Y., and Mrs. Charles L. 
Stone, wife of a prominent lawyer of Syracuse, N.Y., and Mrs. Charles 
H. Duell, whose husband is the present Commissioner of Patents, Wash- 
ington, D. C. 

The deceased children were John Sackett, who died in infancy ; Mrs. 
J. A. Lighthall, who died in 1880 at Geneva, N. Y. ; Frederick A. Sack- 
ett, who died in California in 1887, and the gallant Colonel William A. 
Sackett, who fell at the head of his regiment in a charge at Trevilian's 
Station, Va.,in June, 1804. He was colonel of the Ninth New York 
Cavalry and fought in many of the famous battles of the Army of the 
Potomac. He was selected by General Philip Sheridan to lead the 
charge at Trevilian's Station, where he fell gloriously. 

Judge Sackett was an agreeable and entertaining visitor and com- 



503 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

panion. His flow of spirits was unusual and unflagging. His manner 
was genial and his conversation sparkled with anecdotes and reminis- 
cences drawn from his varied experiences. He never ceased to enjoy 
and enliven the social gatherings of his friends, to which he was always 
welcome and at which he was always a centre of interest and attention. 

The influences of Judge Sackett's life were far-reaching and benefi- 
cent. As a public man his abilities were enhanced by his sterling in- 
tegrity. As an advocate he was far-seeing, forcible and brilliant, and 
as a man he was just, yet generous. Living himself on the lofty plane 
of truth and rectitude, he nourished in his heart a kindly charity for all 
his fellowmen. 

Judge Sackett died at vSaratoga Springs on September G, 1895. 



THOMAS J. MARVIN. 

Hon. Thomas J. Marvin, who in his day was one of the prominent 
men of Saratoga county, was born in the town of Malta, this county, 
June 2G, 1803, and died on December 29, 1852. Although nearly half 
a century has elapsed since his death, his memory is still like that of 
yesterday, and he did so much for his native county that the remotest 
historian of Saratoga shall preserve his record and his name. 

Thomas J. Marvin was educated at Union College and after graduat- 
ing took up the study of law in the office of Hon. William L. F. Warren 
of Saratoga Springs. He was admitted to the bar in 1828 and imme- 
diately began the practice of his profession, to the dignity of which he 
added lustre, finally rising to the highest judicial position which the 
county could confer. At the second election of the justices of the 
peace in Saratoga Springs, he was nominated and returned by a large 
majority, and during the four years of his term in this, his first public 
trust, he gave evidence of the sterling integrity, sagacity and judicial 
ability, which distinguished his whole career. In 1833 he was elected 
to the State Assembly and proved himself not only an able legislator, 
but a representative ever watchful of the rights of his constituents. 
Later on he became one of the judges of the County Court and, upon 
the retirement of Colonel Young, he was made first judge, which place 
he dignified and held with honor until superseded by the Constitution 
of 18-tG. 

He was appointed postmaster at Saratoga Springs by President Tyler 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 508 

and held the office through the administration of that president and his 
successor, James K. Polk. The public affairs of the county were always 
important in his eyes and he served on the board of supervisors during 
the years 1851 and 1852. 

To stimulate and aid the business development of Saratoga Springs, 
he established the first bank in this place, and then generously opened the 
stock book to the public and gave others the advantage of a paying 
investment, retaining only a small portion of the stock himself and 
declining to hold any higher office than that of director. 

To him also was due the credit of procuring the first charter in New 
York State for a Mutual Fire Insurance Company. He organized the 
Saratoga Mutual, of which he was secretary from the time of its organ- 
ization until his death. He was many times elected trustee of the village, 
was president of the board, and even assumed the arduous duties of 
town assessor. 

Thus did this able man in many different ways devote his energies 
and abilities to the welfare of the village and county. As the historian, 
Sylvester, wrote of him — " His active and benevolent mind was not 
confined to objects of mere self, but he was always foremost in stimu- 
lating and promoting enterprises designed to benefit the community 
and the age in which he lived. To his efforts and exertions, more per- 
haps than to those of any other man, the village of Saratoga is indebted 
for its most valuable improvements and its prosperity." 

The soundness of his opinions on all questions of his day won for him 
the admiration and esteem of his contemporaries and time has proved 
the precision of his judgment and the wisdom of his mind. 

Nothing higher can be said of a man than this, — -that he was true to 
his friends, and this faithfulness was one of Judge Marvin's greatest 
traits. Neither political affiliations and influences nor the power of 
money could ever sway his friendship, and he scattered kindly acts 
from both hands as a sower sowing seed. As might be e.xpected with 
such a man, his domestic relations were ideal. On February 8, 1837, 
he married Harriet Fraser, Their children were William, who died 
when two years of age; (Jrace Carryl, who died in her seventeenth year; 
Virginia, who married Dr. John L. Perry and died in 1895, and Mary 
Louise, widow of Hon. William A. Sackett. 

Judge Marvin was a lineal descendant of Matthew Marvin, who came 
to America from England in April, 1635, and settled in Hartford, Conn. 
His son Matthew removed to Norwalk, Conn., where the family re- 



504 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

mained until the beginning of this centur)*. Matthew Marvin had a 
son, Samuel Marvin, whose son, Josiah Marvin, was the father of Will- 
iam Marvin, whose son, William Marvin, was the father of Judge 
Thomas J. Marvin. 



JAMES M. MARVIN. 

Hon. James M.adison Marvin was born in the town of Ballston, 
Saratoga county, N. Y., February 27, 1809. He received a good Eng- 
lish education at his native place, but his business tendency early as- 
serted itself and in 1828 he came to Saratoga vSprings and took the 
management of a hotel. The next year he spent in Albany, connected 
with the new American Hotel; in 1830 he returned to Saratoga Springs 
as one of the proprietors of the United States Hotel and has been a 
resident of this place ever since. From 1841 to 1852 his brother. Judge 
Thomas J. Marvin, was associated with him in the management of the 
United States Hotel. In 1852 Judge Marvin died and James M. Mar- 
vin conducted the hotel until 1865, when it was destroyed by fire. 

In 1841 the Bank of Saratoga Springs (now the First National Bank) 
was established by James M. and Judge Thomas J. Marvin, and Mr. 
Marvin is tOrday the president of the bank. He was for over fifty 
years a director of the Schenectady and Saratoga railroad and for some 
years a director of the N. Y. C. railroad. He has also played a prom- 
inent part in the political affairs of this county; was supervisor of the 
town of Saratoga Springs in 1845, 1857, 1802 and 1874; in 1845 he was 
elected to the Assembly on the Whig ticket. In 1856 he joined the 
Democratic party, but since the breaking out of the Rebellion has been 
a staunch Republican; in 1862 he was elected to Congress and served 
for six years. 

September 26, 1858, Mr. Marvin married Rhoby H. Barnum of Balls- 
ton Spa, and their living children are Mary Benedict, Francis Barnum, 
Caroline and Rhobj'. The Marvin family in America dates back to 
1635, when Matthew Marvin came from England and settled in Hart- 
ford, Conn. His son, Matthew Marvin 2d, was also born in England ; 
his son Samuel was born in Norwalk, Conn., and had a son Josiah 
Marvin, whose son William came west and died in Saratoga county in 
1810. His son, William Marvin, married Mary Benedict and had three 
sons: Alvah B., Judge Thomas J., and Hon. James M., the subject 
of this sketch. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 505 

NICHOLAS HILL. 

Nicholas Hill, Jr., was born at Florida, Montgomery county, N.Y., 
in the year 1805, and died May 1, 1859. He became a barrister of na- 
tional reputation gained especially as a writer of legal treatises. Mr. 
Hill was of Irish descent, his grandfather, John Hill, having been a na- 
tive of Deny count}', Ireland, whence he emigrated to this country, 
being one of the earliest settlers of Florida, N. Y. His son, Nicholas 
Hill, sr. , was a soldier in the Continental army during the war for In- 
dependence. 

The subject of this notice would seem to have been provided by na- 
ture with a legal mind. Early in life he began reading law and was 
admitted to the Supreme Court bar when but twenty-four years of age. 
Soon after he formed a law partnership with Deodatus Wright and be- 
gan practice at Amsterdam, later removing to Saratoga Springs, this 
county, where he was a lawyer of eminence and valued ability for many 
years. He assisted Judge Esek Cowen in his great work, " Notes on 
Phillips' Evidence." In 1840 he removed to Albany where he became 
reporter of the Supreme Court, a position which he filled four years. 
In Albany he was associated with Deodatus Wright and Stephen P. 
Nash and subsequently with Peter Cagger and Hon. John K. Porter as 
senior member of the famous legal firm of Hill, Cagger & Porter. He 
published the seven volumes of " Reports" which bear his name. 



JOHN K. PORTER. 

Hon. John K. Por ikk, son of Dr. Elijah Porter, was born at Water- 
ford, this county, January 1'3, 1819. Dr. Elijah Porter was a physician 
and removed from \'ermont to Waterford early in this centurv. He 
was a son of Morris Porter, an officer of the Continental army, who 
gained high distinction for his bravery at the battle of Bemis Heights. 
John K. Porter was a student of exceptional ability and had during his 
early training the guidance of instructors of rare ability. He entered 
Union College when but sixteen years of age and was graduated in 
1837 with the highest honors the institution could confer upon him. 
He read la"w, was admitted to the Supreme Court bar in 1840 and im- 
mediately took rank with the leading lawyers of the county. In 1848 
he removed to Albany and was engaged in some of the most important 



500 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

litgations of the country. He was a brilliant orator and one of the 
ablest advocates before a jury this vState has ever produced. He won 
high professional honors in his successful defense of Horace Greeley 
vs. De Witt C. Littlejohn for libel, and in many of the most prominent 
actions of his time, being at different times the opposing or associate 
counsel of William M. Evarts, Charles O'Connor and other bright 
lights of the profession. 

In 1864 be was appointed to complete the term of Hon. Henry R. 
Selden as a judge of the Court of Appeals and in the fall of that year 
was elected to the full term, but resigned in 1868 to remove to New 
York city where he made for himself a national reputation in many 
famous cases He was a man who combined the rare qualities of a 
jurist of erudition and research, and an advocate of brilliant oratory and 
power. 



HIRAM TOMPKINS. 

Hiram Tompkins, well known and well respected from his long con- 
nection with the leading business interests of this section, was born in 
Sing Sing, N. Y., September 7, 1824, a son of Caleb and Elizabeth 
(Green) Tompkins. His parents were farmers and when he was eleven 
years old removed to Galway, Saratoga county ; after having completed 
a common school education he began his business life as a clerk in a 
country store. After reaching his majority he went to Ballston where 
he was employed by Samuel Wakeman, a leading merchant of that 
town. He remained in Mr. Wakeman's store until the summer of 1848 
when he began his long and honorable connection with the United 
States Hotel, where he was actively engaged for a period of eighteen 
years or until the old hotel burned. He was also interested in the 
erection of the present United States Hotel, of which he was a part 
owner and one of the proprietors from 1874 to 189G inclusive. 

Mr. Tompkins is, without doubt, the possessor of as wide a circle of 
acquaintances as any resident of .Saratoga Springs, and is universal!}' 
appreciated as a man of excellent ability and fine judgment. He is a 
stockholder and director of the First National Bank; the Harvey Man- 
ufacturing Company; and the Saratogian. He has always avoided pub- 
lic office although keenly alive to and active in promoting the interests 
of the town. 




HIRAM TOMPKINS. 



BIOdRAPIIICAL. 507 

He married Laurentine Chambeilain, whose fallier came to this 
county from New Hampshire. 



ESEK COWEN. 

This name appears on the title pages of countless thousands of legal 
volumes, monuments to the erudition and patient research of its owner, 
who for many years was a resident of the village of Saratoga Springs, 
and who began, in this county, the practice of the profession which he 
honored. He was born in Rhode Island, February 24, 1784, a son of 
Joseph Cowen, who was a son of John Cowen, a Scotch emigrant who 
settled in Scituate, Mass., in 1656. Joseph Cowen removed with his 
family to this county about 1793, but in a few years settled at Hartford, 
Washington county. Here Esek Cowen labored upon his father's land 
until he reached his sixteenth year vvlien he began his legal studies in 
the office of Roger Skinner at Sandy Hill. It is said that the only ed- 
ucational advantages he ever enjoyed were gained by a six months' 
attendance at a neighborhood school. He was in every sense of the 
term a self-educated man. In 1810 he was admitted to the Supreme 
Court bar and as above stated began practice in .Saratoga county, lo- 
cating at Northumberland, and forming a partnership with Gardner 
Stowe, and later being associated with Wessell Gansevoort. In 1817 
he formed a partnership with Judge William L. F. Warren which con- 
tinued until 1824. He was also associated for some years with Judiali 
Ellsworth. He removed to Saratoga Springs in 1812 and soon gained 
recognition. He was a man who would have attracted notice anywhere 
for he was possessed of indomitable energy and remarkable endurance, 
an athletic frame, being over six feet tall, and of fine muscular devel- 
opment. Later in life the dignity of years gave him a commanding 
presence and bearing — not oppressive but of simple charm. 

He first held the office of justice of the peace in the village, and in 
1821-22 served the town as supervisor. In 1824 he was appointed re- 
porter in the Supreme Court and Court of Errors, a position which he 
held until appointed a circuit judge by Governor Van Buren. His re- 
ports cover nine volumes and are justly prized by the profession. In 
1835 he was appointed a justice of the Supreme Court, succeeding Judge 
Savage, and in this office he continued until his death in 1844. 

In addition to his " Reports " he published a " Treatise on the Prac 



508 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tice in Justices' Courts" and " Cowen and Hill's Notes on Phillips' 
Evidence." This latter work was published in 1839 and represents 
eleven j'ears of labor. He was assisted in its preparation by Nicholas 
Hill, elsewhere noticed in this book. It was these works which made 
his name famous. 

Socially Judge Cowen was a man of noble character and his attain- 
ments made him a delightful companion. The "Stone house," his 
home on Congress street in Saratoga Springs, was the abode of rare 
and kindly hospitality. He was by nature generous and gave material 
aid as well as advice to many a young struggler. With Dr. Clarke and 
Judge Walker he built the Bethesda Episcopal chapel. He was a founder 
of the first temperance society in the United States — -the Northumber- 
land — established in 1812. The following description has been written 
of him: '' As a writer he was plain but accurate; as a judge, prompt, 
acute, learned and upright. But it was as a jurist that he was best 
known. Of his opinions which so eminently distinguish him as a 
jurist, it has been said that in their depth and breadth of research, and 
their strength and reason of bearing, they are not excelled by those of 
any judge in England or America. His opulent mind, his love of re- 
search, caused him to trace every legal opinion to its fountain-head, to 
di.scover every variation between apparently analogous precedents. 
Like Lord Mansfield, to whom he has frequently been compared, he 
was accustomed, in the preparation of his opinions, to a liberal expend- 
iture of mental capital, an excess of intellectual labor which renders 
them the triumph of a great genius, impelled by an unprecedented in- 
dustry." 



JAMES LEE SCOTT. 

Hon. James Lee Scott was born in Ballston Spa, January 9, 1850, 
a son of George Gordon Scott, who was born on the homestead in 
Ballston, which was settled by his grandfather, George Scott, who 
arrived there with his brother-in-law. Gen. James Gordon, in 1774. 
George Gordon Scott was graduated from Union College in 1831, and 
the same year entered the law office of Palmer & Goodrich, later was 
with Brown & Thompson, and was admitted to the bar in 1834. He 
entered immediately upon the practice of law, which he continued up 
to the time of his death, September 7, IS8G. In 1838 he was commis- 





O C?C^ 




^rtr 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 509 

sioned by Gov. William L. Marcy as iudge of the County Courts, 
elected to the Assemblies of 1856 and 1857, in which latter year he was 
elected to the Senate from the Fifteenth district. He was the Dem- 
ocratic candidate for State comptroller in 1863. Reserved twenty-one 
consecutive years as supervisor of the town of Ballston, and in 1876 was 
selected by the county officials to deliver the centennial address. He 
was president of the day at the centennial celebration of the battle of 
Saratoga, held at Bemis Heights in 1877. He married Lucy, daughter 
of Hon. Joel Lee, and they had one son, James L., the subject of this 
sketch. James L. was educated in Greylock Institute and was grad- 
uated from Williams College. Mass., in 1876, and from Columbia Law 
School in 1878. He was admitted to the bar that same year and has 
continued his practice for twenty years. He was appointed county 
clerk by Governor Hill in 1886, and in July, 1898, he was appointed 
referee in bankruptcy for the counties of Saratoga, Schenectady and 
Warren by Judge Coxe of the United States District Court. He is in- 
terested in several corporations as president or director, and as a law- 
yer has taken a prominent rank in the county and this portion of 
the State. Mr. Scott married Miss Boone of Louisville, Ky. , a lineal 
descendant of Squire Boone, brother and associate of the great pioneer, 
Daniel Boone; also a great-granddaughter of John Rowan, the associate 
of Henry Clay in the United States Senate. 



COL. SAMUEL YOUNG. 

Here was a man justly entitled to the term, statesman; one who, 
although a Democrat of the staunchest type and closely identified with 
the history of the Democratic party in this State, its organization, 
progress and triumphs, conducted himself in political circles with such 
independent honesty and fearlessness in the exposure of party corrup- 
tion as to win from General Jackson the title, " The Cato of the New 
York Senate." Although not a native of this county, having been born 
in Leno.x, Berkshire county, Mass., Saratoga can justly claim him as 
her own for his parents removed here during his early childhood. He 
was a farmer's boy and as such assisted in the farm work during the 
summer season and attended the common schools in winter. He began 
his legal studies with Levi H. Palmer, a lawyer of Ballston, in which 



510 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

place he began practice after his admission to the bar; soon winning 
substantial recognition in a large practice. 

He at once became a prominent figure in Democratic politics and 
served in minor town and village offices. In 1813 he was elected mem- 
ber of assembly and began his long and honorable connection with the 
politics of the State. Soon after taking his seat a powerful speech, 
which he made in favor of the war, brought him prominently before 
the people with whom he was always a great favorite. Governor 
Tompkins appointed him military aide, hence his title of colonel. In 
1815 he served as speaker of the House but, in the election of the same 
year, was defeated for re-election. This canvass was the origin of the 
" old line " and " new line " party controversy. In 181G he was ap- 
pointed canal commissioner in which capacity he served about twenty 
years. In 1819 he was elected senator from the Eastern district, and 
in 1821 was delegate from Saratoga county to the Constitutional Con- 
vention, taking a front rank position in this body of able men. 

Colonel Young was nominated in 1824 for governor of the State but 
was defeated by the newly formed " People's party," headed by De Witt 
Clinton, who was elected by a decisive vote. In 1825 he was again 
elected to the Assembly and chosen speaker. In 1830 he was defeated 
for member of congress by J. W. Taylor, who received a small major- 
ity. In 1833 he was appointed county judge, which office he held for 
a term of five years, declining reappointment. In 1834 he was elected 
senator, resigning at the close of the session of 1836; and at the next 
election was again chosen senator, in which capacity he served until 
the close of the .session of 1840. In 1842 he was elected secretary of 
state, holding the office until 1843. It was during this period that 
Colonel Young (by virtue of his office acting superintendent of com- 
mon schools) laid the foundation of the present excellent system of 
public instruction of the vState of New York, which is in itself a mon- 
ument to his memory. In 1845 he was again elected to the State Sen- 
ate, remaining in that body until 1847 when his term expired by force 
of the new Constitution. This closed his official career, and he retired 
to his residence in Ballston, where he died November 3, 1850, in the 
seventy-third year of his age. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 511 

THEODORE FRANK HAMILTON. 

Theodore Frank Hamilton was born in Rochester, N. Y., January 
2.3, 1851, and is a son of Theodore B. and Emily (Welles) Hamilton. 
His grandfather, Calvin U. Hamilton, was in the early part of the 
century a resident of Schenectad)-, and married Lucinda Hastings. His 
mother was a daughter of Hon. Henry Welles, who was justice of the 
Supreme Court from 1848 to 1869. Mr. Hamilton was educated in the 
public and high schools of New York city. His first active business 
was with the New York Sun, in the capacity of reporter, during which 
time he wrote his celebrated report on the Fisk murder. He began the 
study of law with Starr & Hooker of New York city. In preparing for 
his profession he also took a course in the law department of Columbia 
College, and after completing this, in 1873, began to practice in Balls- 
ton Spa, Saratoga county. Mr. Hamilton remained in Ballston until 
1886, when he settled permanently in Saratoga Springs. He was elected 
district attorney in 1886, as the candidate for the Republican party, and 
was once re-elected with increased majority. 

Mr. Hamilton compiled a manual for grand juries which has had a 
large sale in the State ; and was editor of American Negligence Cases 
(8 volumes) which have been published and are being issued at the rate 
of several a year. He is also editor of Hamilton's New York Negli- 
gence Cases (classified), published in the fall of 1898, the same being a 
collection of nearly sixty-five hundred negligence cases classified accord- 
ing to the facts. Mr. Hamilton is attornej' for the Fitchburg Railroad 
and counsel for other railroads. 

On June 7, 1877, Mr. Hamilton married Kate M. Luther, daughter 
of J. J. Luther, and they have three daughters; Mary Clement, Mar- 
garet Welles and Kathryn, and one son, Macaulay Hamilton, named 
after Thomas Babington Macaulay, the English historian and essayist. 



EDWARD VALENCOURT DEUELL, M.D. 

Edward Valencourt Deuei.i., M. D., was born in the town of 
Malta, Saratoga county, N. Y., March 13, 1839. He was educated at 
Union College, Schenectady, N. Y., and was graduated with the de- 
gree of M.D. from the University of Louisville, Ky., in 18G3. In that 
year he was appointed assistant surgeon in General Steele's division, 



513 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

U.S.A., and at the capture of Little Rock, Ark., he was placed in 
charge of the General U. S. A. Hospital (1,200 beds) at that place, 
which position he held until the close of the war. He was then ap- 
pointed surgeon in chief of the district of Arkansas, Bureau of Refugees 
and Freedmen, and filled that position until 1869. Retiring from the 
army, he practiced his profession in Little Rock until 1889, when on 
account of ill health of his family, he removed to Saratoga Springs, N. Y. , 
where he has since continued his professional work. During his service 
as U. S. army surgeon a scourge of epidemic cholera visited his military 
district, at the close of which Dr. Deuell was officially commended by 
Surgeon-General J. K. Barnes, U. S. A., for his courage, successful 
treatment, and devotion to duty, he having remained at his post 
throughout the entire scourge, though deserted by his assistant sur- 
geons. He subsequently contributed to the Medical and vSurgical History, 
War of the Rebellion, an article, " Treatment of Cholera by Strychnia 
in One-tenth Grain Doses," which attracted wide attention. 

After a season of careful investigation by him of the European health 
resorts. Dr. Deuell has recently inaugurated a movement toward the 
more systematic administration of the Saratoga mineral waters, on the 
principles existing at Carlsbad and other European Spas, thus departing 
from the former rule of their indiscriminate use. This movement is 
preparatory to the establishment of a great sanitarium for this purpose. 

Dr. Deuell was a charter member of the first local and State Medical 
Society organized in Arkansas; a member of the American Medical 
Association; of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Little Rock; 
president of the board of U. S. Examining Surgeons, Bureau of Pen- 
sions, through two administrations; late clinical assistant to E. C. 
Seguin, M. D., Manhattan Hospital, New York, and physician to Mar- 
tha Rest at Saratoga Springs. He is also a member of James B. Mc- 
Kean Post, G.A.R., of Saratoga Springs, and of Theta Delta Chi Alumni 
Association of Union College. 

In 1871 Dr. Deuell married Mary C. , only child of Chester Ashley 
and Sallie Huston Cunningham of Frankfort, Ky., cousin of John J. 
and Robert Crittenden, eminent in Kentucky statesmanship. Their 
children are Mrs. G. R. P. Shackelford, David Valencourt, Marguerite 
Huston, Jean Crittenden and Dorothy Coggeshall. 

Dr. Deuell's ancestry embraces colonial and heroic stock of the 
American Revolution. Plis father, Ethan Allen Deuell, was the eld- 
est son of Stephen Deuell, first cousin of Ethan Allen, hero of Fort 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 513 

Ticonderoga, for whom he was named. His mother was Ruth Cogge- 
shall, a direct lineal descendant of John Coggeshall, the first colonial 
governor of Rhode Island. 



AUGUSTUS BOCKES. 

Judge Augustus Bockes, Saratoga Springs, was born in the town of 
Greenfield, Saratoga county, N. Y., October 11, 1817, where his par- 
ents had resided for many years. His father, Adam Bockes, jr., was 
a farmer and held various town offices, among them that of justice of 
the peace and supervisor. 

Judge Bockes's opportunities for education were confined to common 
schools of the town in which he lived, supplemented by two terms at 
Burr Seminary, Manchester, \'t. He taught school for three terms, 
one in his native town and two in the town of Malta. He commenced 
the study of law in the office of Judiah Ellsworth at Saratoga Springs 
in 1838; and continued his studies in the office of William A. Beach, 
one of the brightest lights of the Saratoga bar, from whose office he 
was admitted to the bar in 1843. Immediately after his admission he 
commenced the practice of his profession in partnershij) with Stephen 
P. Nash (deceased), late of New York city, and soon thereafter formed 
a partnership with Mr. Beach, which continued until 1847. He was 
elected the first county judge of Saratoga county under the new con- 
stitution in June, 1847, and entered upon his official duties July 1 of 
that year; he was re-elected for a second term at the November elec- 
tion in 1851 and resigned the office in 1854. On January 1, 1855, he 
was appointed by Governor Clarke a justice of the Supreme Court for 
the Fourth Judicial District of the State, to fill the vacancy caused by 
the resignation of Judge Daniel Cady. At the November election, 
in 1850, he was elected justice of the Supreme Court, the place to 
which he had been previously appointed in 1855, and was re-elected at 
the November election in 1867 and was again reelected in 1875. At 
the last two elections he was elected without opposition, and at his last 
election he was nominated and supported by both political parties. 
During the year 1867 he was a member of the Court of Appeals, pur- 
suant to the then Constitution of the State. He was designated bj' 
Ciovernor Dix to the General Term of the Supreme Court for the 
Fourth Judicial department (an appellate branch of that court under 

33 



514 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the amended constitution, which designation relieved him from circuit 
duty) for the years 1874 and 1875, and was thereafter redesignated to 
the same place on the expiration of his several designations by Gover- 
nors Tilden, Cornell, Cleveland and Hill respectively. Thus Judge 
Bockes held judicial positions during a period of thirty-five years, six 
years county judge and twenty-nine years justice of the Supreme 
Court, one year of which latter period was under appointment by the 
governor and twenty-eight under elections by the people. During one 
year (1867) he was a member of the Court of Appeals, and during four- 
teen years prior to January 1, 1888, he was a member of the Appellate 
division of the Supreme Court under designation by the governors of 
the State. His last elective term of fourteen years was abbreviated 
two years by constitutional limitation, inasmuch as he attained to 
seventy years of age on the 1st of October, 1887. The honorary degree 
of LL.D. was conferred upon him by Union College in 1885. 

Judge Bockes married a daughter of Judge William Hay in 18-14, 
and one son was born to them, William Hay Bockes. Judge Bockes is 
now living (1899) at the advanced age of eighty-two years. 



JAMES W. HOUGHTON. 

Hon. James W. Houghton was born in the town of Corinth, Saratoga 
county, September 1, 1856, son of Tilley and Charlotte (Dayton) 
Houghton. The family is of English descent and early settled in Sara- 
toga county, removing from Lancaster, Mass. His father was a prom- 
inent man in his day and was well known, especially throughout the 
northern section of the county. 

Judge Houghton was educated at Canandaigua Academy, Canandai- 
gua, N. Y., and after completing an advance course in that institution, 
which at that time had a high reputation, taught school, reading law 
meantime, and was admitted to the bar at Rochester in October, 1879. 
In January, 1880, he came to Saratoga Springs and began the practice 
of law. By industry and painstaking care in the preparation of his 
cases, he rapidly established for himself a lucrative practice and a high 
position amongst the younger members of the bar. 

In 1888, after an exciting but friendly contest, he was nominated by 
the Republican convention of his county for county judge. A great 
effort was made by his Democratic opponent to defeat him on the ground 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 515 

of his youth, but he was elected by a large majority. His services on 
the bench met with such approval that in 1894 he was re-elected with- 
out opposition, his nomination being endorsed by the Democratic party. 

He is regarded as a hard working lawyer, who prepares his cases for 
trial and argument with great care and research. His arguments are 
clear and logical, and as an advocate he possesses strong ability before 
both court and jury. His great strength is in his plain, forceful and 
straightforward manner of presenting his case. He is engaged upon 
one side or the other of nearly all the important causes in his county. 

In April, 188-t, he married Elizabeth M. Smith of Saratoga Springs, 
and their children are James T. and Elizabeth. 



SEYMOUR AINSWORTH. 

Seymour Ainsworth, who died at his home in Saratoga Springs, 
December 23, 1890, in the seventieth year of his age, was an interest- 
ing character and a most useful citizen of this village and county. He 
was born in Woodbury, Vermont, May 17, 1821, one of twelve chil- 
dren, all of whom lived to be more than fifty-five years of age. His 
scholastic education was confined to a few terms in the neighboring 
district schools, but his education in woodcraft, the use of the rifle and 
other outdoor sports was broad, leading him in after years to the busi- 
ness of dealing in products of Indian skill, which gained him an exten- 
sive acquaintance with Indian tribes from Maine to the Northwest. 
When a youth of fourteen he learned the trade of carpenter and car- 
riage maker and at the age of nineteen came to Saratoga Springs to 
begin business for himself. He was employed for several years in and 
about the Union Hall of which he subsequently became one of the pro- 
prietors. He engaged in a variety of enterprises and was instrumental 
in the erection of more edifices of a public and private nature than any 
other man in Saratoga. 

Mr. Ainsworth gained an international reputation in a business for 
which he was eminently well fitted — that of selling articles of Indian 
manufacture, such as deer-skin moccasins, porcupine quill and moose 
hair embroideries, basket work, bows and arrows, and snow shoes. 
He monopolized the entire product of several Indian tribes and for a 
considerable time had the entire product of the beautiful grass which 
is used by the Indians in their basket and fan work. Coupled_with 



516 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

rare business ability he had an unusual genius for invention and at dif- 
ferent times nearly thirty patents were granted him for devices and 
processes connected with his many lines of business. Perhaps the 
most valuable of these was his process for manufacturing feather fans, 
which gave him a practical monopoly in the production of ostrich 
feather fans. For a number of years he furnished A. T. Stewart, Lord 
& Taylor, and other large houses with all the feather fans they sold. 

In 18G5 he formed a copartnership with W. H. McCaffrey and pur- 
chased the High Rock spring which he greatly improved; the com- 
pletion of the improvement being marked by a public meeting of cit- 
izens which was addressed by Chancellor Walworth, William L. Stone, 
esq., and others. 

In politics Mr. Ainsworth was a Democrat and held various public 
offices in the town and village government. He was the first assistant 
assessor of internal revenue for his district under the laws of the 
United States. In 1870 he was elected to represent this district in the 
State Assembly, a remarkable evidence of popularity, taking into con- 
sideration the fact that his was the first election of a Democratic mem- 
ber in thts district in fifteen years. 



GEORGE F. COMSTOCK, M. D. 

George F. Comstock, M. D., one of the most prominent physicians 
and surgeons of Saratoga county, was born in the town of Moreau, 
January 1, 1861, a son of George W. and Harriet O. (Carr) Comstock. 

He is of English ancestry who emigrated from England to America, 
settling in Providence, R. I. Nathaniel Comstock, grandfather of 
George F., was the first of the family to reside in New York State, 
coming here about 1800 and settling in the town of Greenfield. He 
was one of the pioneers of that section of the county, and during his 
lifetime was actively engaged in the growth and development of the 
resources of that region. 

George W., his son, was also a resident of Greenfield for many years 
and a successful agriculturist. Of his marriage to Harriet O. Carr three 
children were born, Anna F. (deceased), George F. and William F. 

George F. Comstock acquired his early education in the district schools 
of his native town, afterward attending the high school at Saratoga 
Springs and later the McLaren Institute at Glens Falls, N. Y. In 1880 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 517 

he began the study of medicine under Dr. James Tomlison of New 
York city, later entering the College of Physicians and Surgeons, from 
which he was graduated with the degree of M. D. in 1883. 

During that year he also pursued a special course of study on the 
heart and lungs under Dr. Alfred L. Lommis at Bellevue Hospital. 
Subsequent to his graduation he removed to Saratoga Springs, where 
he has since been continuously engaged in the practice of medicine and 
surgery, with the exception of the time spent away for the purpose of 
further study. In 1895 he took a course in surgery at Roosevelt Hos- 
pital and the year following a post graduate course at the Johns Hop- 
kins University in Baltimore. A thorough and untiring student, pos- 
sessing a deep love for his profession, Dr. Corastock has rapidly attained 
to a foremost position among the medical men of this section of New 
York State. His possession of one of the most extensive practices in 
Saratoga Springs among the summer guests as well as among the towns- 
people is an evidence of the appreciation by the public of his profes- 
sional ability. 

Dr. Comstock's success seems to lie in the fact that he is a shrewd 
diagnostician, and that he knows no fatigue when a severe case calls for 
his attention and will leave nothing undone which is for the welfare of 
his patients. 

He is a member of the New York Academy of Medicine, the State 
Medical. Association, the County Medical Association, and the Amer- 
ican Medical Association. He was a member and secretary of the Pen- 
sion examining board for this district under President Harrison's ad- 
ministration. 

December 12, 1883, he married Ella H., daughter of Rev. R. D. 
Andrews, of Greenfield Center, and they have one son, Carl R. Dr. 
and Mrs. Comstock are prominent in social and religious life of Sara- 
toga Springs, are members of the First Baptist church, and identified 
with all projects for the furtherance of the public good. 



JOHN W. TAYLOR. 

Hon, John W. Taylor was born in what is now Charlton, Saratoga 
county, March 26, 1784, a son of Judge John Taylor. He was one of 
the most distinguished men in political life that Saratoga county ever 
produced and the only citizen of New York State who has ever held 



518 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the third place in the National Government (speaker of the House.) 
Mr. Taylor was educated at Union College, from which he was grad- 
uated in 1803. He began his legal studies with Samuel Cook with 
whom he formed a partnership in 1806. In 1811 he was elected to the 
State Assembly, and re-elected in 1812. In the same year he was 
elected to the Thirteenth Congress from this district which he repre- 
sented for ten consecutive terms, ending in the year 1833. He was 
twice chosen as speaker of the House; in 1831 as the successor of Henry 
Clay, and in 1835 of the Nineteenth Congress for the full term. He 
was elected to the State Senate in 1840, but resigned in the summer 
of 1843. He soon after removed to the city of Cleveland, Ohio, where 
he died September 18, 1854. His remains were interred in the ceme- 
tery at Ballston. 



WILLIAM A. BEACH. 

William A. Beach was a lawyer of great ability and national reputa- 
tion. He was prominently engaged in several of the most important 
cases that have ever been tried in the United States Supreme Court. 
Mr. Beach was born at Ballston Spa, this county, a son of Miles and 
Cynthia (Warren) Beach. He read law in the office of Judge Warren, 
his mother's brother, and was admitted to the bar in 1833. He prac- 
ticed in this county for several years, and then removed to Troy where 
he practiced about twenty years, subsequently removing to New York 
city. 



WILLIAM B. GAGE. 

William B. Gage, of Gage& Perry, proprietors of the United States 
Hotel, at Saratoga Springs, was born in Schenectady, N. Y., May 24, 
1843, but nearly all his life he has been a resident of Saratoga Springs. 
There is a homely saying that "It is not every one who can keep a 
hotel." This is emphaticalh^ true, but Mr. Gage may not be counted 
among the " can'ts." His whole business life has been devoted to the 
vocation, which, in itself, is presumptive evidence that he is fitted by 
nature and education for the peculiar and varied duties that rest upon 
the shoulders of the successful innkeeper. 




UK. JOHN 1.. PbRKY. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 519 

In 1863 and 1863 Mr. Gage was employed in the office of the old 
United States Hotel as clerk, and for the three following years was 
cashier in the New York Hotel in New York city. From 1866 to 1869 
he served as cashier at Willard's Hotel, Washington, D. C, and early 
in the latter year he returned to Saratoga Springs where he was cash- 
ier at Congress Hall until the close of the season. He then went as 
cashier to the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York, where he remained 
until 1873. This experience of over ten years in some of the leading 
hotels of the country developed and strengthened his taste for, and 
knowledge of, the hotel business, and prepared him for the responsibil- 
ities of membership in the firm of Tompkins, Gage & Perry, who built 
and opened the new United States Hotel in Saratoga Springs in 1874. 
Since that date his connection with the United States has been un- 
interrupted. 

Mr. Gage is intimately connected with the business life of Saratoga 
Springs, and is active and influential in all measures leading to the ad- 
vancement of his home village ; he is a member of the board of directors 
of the First National Bank, and an owner and director of the Saratogian, 
the leading newspaper of the county; he has also been for many years 
a vestryman in Bethesda Episcopal church. 

On September 29, 1875, he married Caroline B., third daughter of 
Hon. James M. Marvin. They have had four children, as follows: 
William Marvin, Augusta W., Rhoby Marvin and James Marvin. 



JOHN L. PERRY, M. D. 

Dr. John L. Perry, one of the proprietors of the United States Ho- 
tel at Saratoga Springs, is a son of Dr. John L. and Harriet (Sadler) 
Perry, and was born at Saratoga Springs, February 28, 1840. During 
his boyhood Dr. Perry attended the schools of his native village, and 
later entered the College of St. Therese, near Montreal, Canada; he 
afterwards received instruction in private schools in Saratoga, and 
after completing his preparatory education, began the study of medicine 
with his father and subsequently Drs. March and Armsby, of Albany, 
were his preceptors. He gained much practical e.Kperience, prior to 
his graduation in medicine, in the Albany barracks under Dr. Armsby, 
in the hospital, and with his father. He was commissioned assistant 
surgeon of the lloth Regiment, N. Y. Vols., and served with excellent 



520 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

record at Yorktown and Port Royal for several months, but, contract- 
ing typhus fever, was obliged to resign. 

After retiring from the army he engaged in private practice in Sara- 
toga Springs, and also took charge of the medical department of the 2d 
Veteran Cavalry (then stationed at Saratoga) until the regiment was 
ordered to move. He continued his practice in Saratoga Springs 
until continued ill health, the result of the fever contracted while in 
the service, caused him to give up the praccice of his profession. He 
had a fine practice and a very successful one, but was compelled to 
give it up and go to Carlsbad and other resorts for a long time before 
he was cured. In 1866 he formed a copartnership with F. T. Hill, 
under the firm name of F. T. Hill & Co., and engaged in the drug 
trade, which association continued until 1873. 

In 1874: Dr. Perry entered into partnership with Seymour Ainsworth, 
Hiram Tompkins, W. B. Gage and L. H. Janvrinas proprietors of the 
United States Hotel, who, in the j-ear named, opened the hotel. The 
present proprietors are William B. Gage and Dr. John L. Perry. 

His connection with this famous hotel has made for Dr. Perry an en- 
viable reputation as one of the leading hotel men of the country. He 
is a genial man, of broad education and fine culture, and possessed of 
the unusual combination of superior literary and artistic taste with rare 
executive ability. He has traveled extensively in foreign parts, and is 
an accomplished linguist, fluently speaking French, German and Span- 
ish. His library is, perhaps, one of the best in the country and num- 
bers among its volumes many rare and valuable works. 

As one of the leading hotel men of this country's most famous resort 
his acquaintance with people of prominence is broad and interesting, 
and being a man who keeps well abreast with the advanced thought of 
the day, he is held in high respect and estimation by all who form his 
friendship. 

Dr. Perry is a prominent thirty-second degree Mason ; is past com- 
mander of Washington Commandery, Knights Templar; past high 
priest of the Chapter; member of Delta Lodge of Perfection, of Troy, 
and of Albany Sovereign Consistory. He is also a member of Post 
Wheeler, G. A. R. ; of the New York Commandery of the Loyal Legion ; 
the Army and Navy Club, New York Athletic Club, Saratoga Club, 
and the Alumni Association of Albany Medical College. In politics he 
is a Republican, but has never cared for political preferment. 

In 1864: he married Virginia T., daughter of Hon. Thomas J. Marvin 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 521 

and niece of Hon. James M. Marvin of Saratoga Springs. Mrs. Perry 
died on February 10, 1895. 

The United States Hotel in its history dates from 1824, when the 
original structure was erected by Elias Benedict and conducted by 
John Ford until 1830, when he was succeeded by Hon. James M. Mar- 
vin, who, in 1832, purchased the property of Mr. Benedict. In 1842 
Hon. Thomas J. Marvin became connected with his brother James in 
the hotel, which association continued until the death of the former in 
1852. In 1865 it was destroyed by fire. The new United States was 
completed and opened in 1874, and has since been conducted by Messrs. 
Gage & Perr\-. 

The United States Hotel is a six-story structure, surrounding a spa- 
cious court filled with stately trees that spread their branches over a 
landscaped lawn and neatly groomed promenades, lined with inviting 
settees and broad verandas. The architectural arrangement of the 
hotel proper and cottage annex is such that every suite and room is 
light and cool, with alternating sunshine and shade. The great piaz- 
zas, parlors and dining room accommodate a thousand patrons each 
without congestion or confusion. The United States occupies a fore- 
most place among the largest caravansaries of the world, yet, notwith- 
standing the grand proportions of such a business, every detail is 
looked after with as much care and attention as could be done in a pri- 
vate residence. 



JOHN WILLARD. 

Hon. Joh.n Willard was born at Guilford, Conn., May 20, 1792, and 
died at his home in Saratoga Springs, September 4, 1862, after a life of 
purity and integrity as a man and of enviable eminence in the legal 
profession. Judge Willard descended from Puritan ancestors. He 
was a nephew of Mrs. Emma Willard who became famous as the pio- 
neer of women's education in this country. He was educated at Middle- 
bury College where he was graduated in 1813, and after reading law 
was admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court of New York in 1817. 
He began practice in the village of Salem, Washington county, where 
he became first judge of the Court of Common Pleas and surrogate. 
In 1836, on the elevation of Esek Cowen to the Supreme Court bench, 



532 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

he was appointed circuit judge and vice-chancellor of the Fourth Judi- 
cial district, filling that office until 1846, when by the change of the 
judiciary constitution he was elected a justice of the Supreme Court, 
serving with finest ability until 1854, when he retired from the bench. 
During his service as a judge he was especially distinguished by his in- 
finite courtesy and kindness to the profession which won for him the 
regard of all who practiced in his district. 

In politics Judge Willard was a Democrat of the strongest partisan- 
ship. In 1861 he was elected State senator without opposition. He 
took at once a prominent part in the deliberations of that body and was 
instrumental in bring about needed changes in the statutes respecting 
murder and the rights of married women. During the latter years of 
his life he prepared several legal treatises which bore the stamp of his 
unmistakable legal genius and profound learning, and now form valu- 
able contributions to our jurisprudence. 

One who knew him has paid the following tribute to his memory : 
" Judge Willard was a shining example of candor and integrity joined 
with great learning and ability, the purenessof his character command- 
ing unusual respect and esteem ; as an advocate, judge and legislator 
he was alike eminent and accomplished, and in his private life irre- 
proachable and blameless. It has fallen to the lot of few men to ac- 
quire and leave behind them such an unsullied name. " 



DANIEL A. BULLARD. 

Daniel A. Bullard was born in Schuylerville in 1814. His father, 
Alpheus Bullard, was a native of vSturbridge, Mass., and his mother, 
Hannah (Fitch) Bullard, a native of Greenfield, Saratoga county. 
Alpheus Bullard came to Schuylerville in 1810, when the thriving vil- 
lage on the banks of the Hudson was a small hamlet. When Daniel 
A. was seven years old his father moved into the town of Northumber- 
land, where he remained until Daniel was eighteen years of age. At 
this time Daniel started out to face the world and to do for himself 
with a capital of sixteen cents and an indomitable will backed by fine 
health, physically speaking. 

His first employment was with Cramer & Mulford of Grangerville, 
general merchants. He remained in their service five and one-half 
vears, when he returned to Schuylerville, and in company with C. W. 




DANIHL A. BULLARD. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 523 

Maliew embarked in the mercantile business, which was continued 
for something like two years; it being too slow business for the rugged, 
hustling young man, whose ambitious nature looked forward to some- 
thing more in keeping with his ideas of getting along in the world. 
Early railroad building offered the desired opening, and after two years 
of mercantile life in Schuylerville he disposed of his business and en- 
gaged in contract work with the Vermont Central railroad, which was 
at that time under construction. In this work he was engaged for five 
years and upon its completion went to the State of Indiana, and was 
for one year engaged in the same line; his return and engagement 
with R. W. Lowber of Bald Mountain, in the same line of work occupied 
his attention for the next three years. 

In 1863, he, with others, organized the Schuylerville Paper Co. and 
erected the present plant; in 1870, Mr. Bullard having acquired the en- 
tire capital stock of the concern, he in 1873 gave an interest to his son, 
Edward C. Bullard, and in 1875 his second son, Charles M., was ad- 
mitted. In 1896 the business was incorporated and again became the 
Schuylerville Paper Co., with Daniel A. Bullard president and Edward 
C. Bullard, as superintendent and general manager. The plant has 
a frontage of 800 feet on Broadway, and is thoroughly equipped with all 
modern appliances for the manufacture of paper, which forms the pro- 
duct of the concern. Fifty hands are employed, and owing to the care 
in manufacturing and the great reputation acquired in the past, the 
goods turned out are shipped to large established markets. 

Mr. Bullard has been so long identified in business and socially with 
the village of Schuylerville, he has become a fixed figure in its daily 
transactions. Always a Republican, his voice and influence has gone 
out in behalf of the principles of the party. He has enjoyed many of 
the honors that the party bestows; has been supervisor of the town of 
Saratoga from 1875 to 1878; in 1870 was elected president of the vil- 
lage and held the position five terms. In 1875 he was tendered the 
nomination for Congress, but declined the honor on account of pressing 
business engagements. He is one of the largest stockholders in and 
president of the National Bank of Schuylerville. His influence and 
the works of his hand are everywhere to be observed in the laying out 
and arrangement of the streets, as well as his great interest in every- 
thing calculated to advance the material interest of the community. 
The visitor tothe beautiful Rural Cemetery on Prospect Hill is greeted 
with a statue of this gentleman which occupies a conspicuous position 



524 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

in the Bullard lot. The statue was executed by F. Muer of Boston, is 
eight feet in height and with base pedestal is eighteen feet in height; 
it was erected fifteen years ago under the supervision of William H. 
Thomas of Saratoga Springs. 

That the mantle of the father seldom falls to the son is not borne out 
in Mr. Bullard's case, but may be said to have a double realization in 
the career of his son, Edward C. Bullard, whose untimely death in 
October, 1897, at the age of fifty-six years, removed from the com- 
munity a business man whose equal it would be difficult to match, a 
citizen whose traits and characteristics to be understood thoroughly had 
only to be known to be appreciated. After him his son, Daniel A. 
Bullard 3d, the present superintendent of the mills, seems to have 
demonstrated the correctness of the proposition cited. Although a 
young man, with a veteran's maturity, he has become a personification 
in a business sense of both his father and grandfather. He is a young 
man of great promise, possessing a quick insight into details and meth- 
ods, and is conceded a rare business future. 



EDWARD C. BULLARD. 

Edward Chesselden Bullard, eldest son of D. A. Bullard, was born 
in S^chuylerville, N. Y., March 20, ISIS, and died September 18, 1897, 
aged fifty- five years. His early education was obtained from the public 
schools of Schuylerville, Williston .Seminary and Phillips Exeter Acade- 
my; he took a course in the Albany Law School, graduating from that 
institution, and was admitted to the bar: for some time he was asso- 
ciated with his uncle. General E. F. Bullard, in the practice of his pro- 
fession. 

As time advanced it became evident the predominating influence des- 
tined to rule in his actions in life favored active business pursuits to 
the legal profession, and accordingly, after extensive traveling over the 
South and West, he, in company with Mr. Thomas J. Bullard, estab- 
tablished in 1870 a general mercantile business in Schuylerville, which 
they conducted with marked success. After closing out this enterprise 
Mr. Bullard was associated in the coal trade with J. B. Welch, and in 
1872 he acquired an interest in the paper mill business with his father, 
Daniel A. Bullard. In 1875 the firm was further augmented by the 
admission of his brother, Charles M., and the business was so con- 




EUWARU CHtSSHLDHN BULLAHU. 




UANlbL A. BULLARl), 2D. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. MS 

ducted until 1896, when it was incorporated and became The Schuyler- 
ville Paper Co. 

Mr. Bullard was a man of strong personality, large ideas, and in- 
domitable will ; a man of brains so keenly organized that his successes 
in life could be accounted for easier than could the failures of other men 
less perfectly endowed. Success in matters practical did not form all 
his characteristics; fidelity to conviction and fearless persistency were 
Ijrominent traits of character displayed in all his imdertakings; as in 
business, so in the duties of citizenship. His interest in the cause of 
education never flagged; he was several times a member of the board 
and had been honored by being elected its president; he had also ably 
filled the chair of president of the village, and in 1889 was elected super- 
visor of the town of Saratoga, and was president of the National Bank 
of Schuylerville at the time of his death, which occurred September 
18, 1897. In these secondary relations he brought to bear the same 
practical, energetic business methods which had characterized all his 
other undertakings. Although a Democrat in ISS-l, he heartily espoused 
the principles of the Republican party in the last presidential cam- 
paign and was an enthusiastic supporter of the platform of that party. 

In 1866 Mr. Bullard married Ida Burnap of Waterford, who, with 
five children, survives him: Daniel A., 3d, Harold, Cornelia, Elizabeth 
and Grace. In the family we can do no better than quote the language 
of one who knew and wrote of him: " Mr. Bullard was a man whose 
home was very dear to him, and the high regard in which he held his 
family was very marked; as a husband and father he was all that could 
be desired." He was a member of the Reformed church of Schuyler- 
ville, and on the day on which he was laid to rest in Prospect Hill 
Cemetery, business was entirely suspended, and the citizens and em- 
ployees of the Schuylerville and Fort Miller paper mills attended in a 
body. 



DANIEL A. BULLARD. 2d. 

Daniel A. Bull.^rd, 3d, eldest son of Edward C. and Ida (Burnap) 
Bullard, was born in Schuylerville, October 16, 1860, and educated in 
the public schools of his native place. In 1886 he entered Phillips Ex- 
eter Academy from which he was graduated in 1889; the year follow- 
ing he entered the Worcester Polytechnic Institute at Worcester, Mass., 



526 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

graduating after a two years' course in the department of mechanical 
engineering. After graduating he returned to Schuylerville and en- 
tered the employ of D. A. Bullard & Sons (in 1891), and when the firm 
became incorporated under the title of The Schuylerville Paper Co., 
.he became its first secretary, and on the death of his father, September, 
1897, he was made secretary and treasurer and general manager, posi- 
tions of trust and responsibility shared by but few as young men as 
himself. Although cumbered with duties a much older head might find 
onerous to bear, Mr. Bullard finds time to take a lively interest in the 
affairs of his native village. 

In politics he is a staunch Republican, and although never seeking 
office he was elected a school trustee in 1895 for three years, and pres- 
ident of the village of Schuylerville from March, 1897, to 1898. Any 
comments on Mr. Bullard's career in an article of this kind would al- 
most seem superfluous, so well is he known and his abilities are recog- 
nized to be of such a high order all over the county. At Schuylerville, 
where he is best known and appreciated, when reference is made to his 
fine business qualifications, the reply is simply ' ' a chip of the old block, " 
referring suggestively to his father, whose place he has taken and ably 
fills in the conduct of the large manufacturing business he controlled 
up to his death in 1897. 

In June, 1896, Mr. Bullard married May, daughter of Edwin S. 
Sweet of Brooklyn, N. Y. Of strong domestic tendencies, Mr. Bullard 
belongs to that by far too small a class known as home bodies. His 
preferences are the fireside as against the club, or places of general 
amusement. Although just past his twenty-eighth year, Mr. Bullard 
has given evidence that he possesses a superior order of business ability, 
keen insight and practical methods which are bound in the future to 
elevate him to a high standing among business men. 



WILLIAM HAY. 

Hon. William Hay, was born in Cambridge, Washington county, 
N. Y., September 10, 1793, a son of James and Katy (McVicker) Hay. 
When he was a child the family removed to Glens Falls, where he re- 
ceived the limited educational advantages of the schools of the vicinity. 
He read law in the office of Henry O. Martindale of Glens Falls, and in 
1812, after his admission to the bar, opened an office at Caldwell, at 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 527 

the head of Lake George. He served as a lieutenant in the war of 
1812, raising a rifle company through his own efforts. He was also a 
volunteer in the expedition to Carthagena, in consequence of which he 
spent a winter in Philadelphia, where he learned the printer's trade. 

In 1819 he became the publisher of the Warren Patriot. In 1823 he 
removed to Glens Falls and was elected member of assembly from 
Warren county. About this time he issued a small volume of poems, 
called "Isabel Davolos, the Maid of Seville." In the spring of 1837 
he removed to Ballston, and in 1840 to Saratoga Springs, where he re- 
sided until his death, February 13, 1870. 

Mr. Hay was possessed of a remarkable memory and was a man of 
scholarly ability. He was a bold and fearless advocate of temperance, 
and through the well understood kindliness of his motives and strength 
of character, commended the love and esteem of all. He was consid- 
ered a standard authority on American history, and was deeply in- 
terested in local history; having in fact collected a fund of valuable 
historic matter in contemplation of publishing a history of Saratoga 
county. 



WALTER HENDRICKS HANSON. 

Walter Hendricks Hanson, one of the best known and most promi- 
nent of Saratoga's younger men, was born at Saratoga Springs, N. Y., 
August 31, 1866. He was educated at Fairview, this county, the schools 
of Saratoga Springs and at Phillips Exeter, New Hampshire. 

After his school days he engaged in business in Albany, which he 
carried on for six years, but he has always resided in Saratoga Springs 
and has given much attention to public affairs here. He was trustee 
of the village from 1894 to 1896 and has been tendered other nomina- 
tions by the Republicans of Saratoga Springs. He is a prominent 
thirty-second degree Mason, being a member of the Blue Lodge, Chap- 
ter, Commandery and Shrine. He was also a member of the Burgess 
Corps, Albany, of which he was second lieutenant for three years, from 
1894 until the spring of 1897, when he resigned. 

Mr. Hanson was prominently mentioned for president of the village 
of Saratoga Springs, in 1894, by the Republicans and had strong sup- 
port in the caucus, but magnanimously withdrew in favor of Mr. 
Howe, who eventually received the nomination. After the Reform 



528 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Bill was passed he took a very active part in local politics, and was 
strongly mentioned for the presidency of the village, being defeated in 
caucus by a small majority. He controlled district number six for 
some time and had a large and influential following. 

Recently Mr. Hanson has not been able, conscientiously, to adhere 
to the Republican party and is classed as a Democrat. He is an 
aggressive and enthusiastic worker and his principle is to see the best 
men only placed in positions of trust. In 1889 Mr. Hanson married 
Aimee Gardiner Lathrop, daughter of Daniel S. Lathrop, of Albany. 
They have one son, Walter Lathrop Hanson. Mr. Hanson's parents 
were Henry B. and Theresa B. Hanson. Mr. Henry B. Hanson is one 
of Saratoga's leading citizens; has large interests here and is univer- 
sally respected. His ancestors were Revolutionary soldiers and the 
family has been American for nearly two centuries. 



GEORGE WEST. 

Hon. George West, manufacturer, banker and ex-Congressman, was 
born in Bradninch, Devonshire, England, February 17, 1833. At the 
age of eleven he went to work in a paper mill and served his full ap- 
prenticeship from fourteen to twenty-one years of age, and rising 
rapidly he was soon put in charge of a department. He came to this 
country in February, 1849, in the steerage, and found employment in a 
paper mill in New Jersey at seven dollars per week, but at the end of 
a year removed to Tyringham, Berkshire county, Mass., and entered a 
writing-paper mill. It was here, in February, 1850, that he made the 
first watermark writing paper on a machine in the United States. He 
also invented machinery for cutting watermark in the centre of the 
sheet. In 1853 he took full charge of the Russell Mills; in 1861 he 
purchased the Empire Mill, Rock City Falls, Saratoga county, and in 
June, 1862 purchased the mill outright. He now owns and runs seven 
paper and one sulphite mills. The paper mills have an output of 
fifty tons of paper per day, and the sulphite millls an output of fif- 
teen tons per day; he employs 400 men, women and children. He is 
a large stockholder in the Utica Herald. He is president and one of the 
founders of the First National Bank of Ballston ; a director of the Na- 
tional Folding Box and Paper Co. of New York city; director of Frank- 
lin Bank; owns a creosote factory and several mines in the west. He 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 539 

is treasurer of the Round Lake Association and one of the original in- 
corporators, and a member of the firm of D. S. Walton & Co , wholesale 
merchants of paper and paper boxes, corner of Varick and Franklin 
streets, New York city. He is also a member of the board of trade and 
transportation, the American Geographical Society, and the Republican 
Club of New York city. In politics a Republican, he was five times elected 
to the Assembly from Ballston, from 1871 to 1875 inclusive; served in 
Congress three terms (1880-86) from the Twentieth district. In 1880- 
84 and in 1888 he was a delegate to the National Republican Conven- 
tion. His popularity in his county was very great; and once, when his 
political opponents had a picture taken representing him asleep in his 
chair in the assembly hall and distributed proofs by the thousands in 
his district, the people elected him by a greater majority than usual. 
He had been up for nights watching legislation, and accideatly dozed 
in his chair. His political career has been brilliant, and his native wit 
and readiness and good humor in speaking have won him many friends. 
In 1883, on the .occasion of a visit to England, a public reception and 
banquet was given to Mr. West, by the officials and the people in his 
native town, Bradninch. Mr. West is a thirty-second degree Mason, 
and a Knight of Pythias. He was the original New Yorker who 
suggested Benjamin Harrison for the presidency in 1888, and was 
also the first to advocate Levi P. Morton for vice president. In relig- 
ion he is a Methodist and an active member of the denomination. He 
paid half the cost of erecting the handsome church edifice in Ballston, 
which was dedicated Ijy Bishop Newman in December, 1893, and in 
1896 he presented the church with a handsome parsonage. Mr. West 
is a self-made man in the best sense of the word, and having expe- 
rienced the struggle of life does not forget to sympathize with others. 
He is most philanthropic, contributing largely to charity and earnestly 
supporting every worthy measure for the public good. He was mar- 
ried in Devonshire, England, April 7, 1844, to Louisa Rose. They 
have had six children, two of whom survive. The first-born son, 
(reorge West, jr., now living, is married and has three sons, and the 
last born, Florence L. , now Mrs. Douglas W. Mabee, has seven chil- 
dren. 

34 



630 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

HIRAM NEWELL. 

Hiram Newell is a descendant from the Connecticut branch of 
Newells. Thomas Newell was the first of the name to settle in Farm- 
ington, whither he came from Hartford in its early settlement, it is said 
from Hertfordshire, England. His name appears in Farmington, Conn., 
among the original settlers not long after 1640. Daniel Newell, grand- 
father of Hiram, was born at that place September 16, 1755; he took 
an active part in the Revolutionary war; and soon after independence 
was declared he removed with his wife, Nancy (Curtis) Newell, to Tin 
mouth, Vt., and while residing there was chosen captain of the artillery 
company and retained that position until his removal to Burke, Vt. 
While a resident of that town he was often chosen to fill town offices, 
and was a representative in the Legislature from 1810 to 1813, and it 
is said always discharged his duty with fidelity and dispatch. 

His grandson, Hiram Newell, was born at Burke, Caledonia county, 
Vt., July 21, 1815, a son of Rufus and Betsey (Beckwith) Newell. His 
early boyhood days were spent on the farm at that place and in 1833 he 
removed with his parents to Jay, Essex county, N. Y. After serving 
a short time as clerk he engaged in the iron and mercantile business 
until 1845, when he sold out and removed to Port Henry, where he was 
cashier and bookkeeper in the Port Henry Iron Works. After two 
years he returned to Jay and again engaged in the iron and mercantile 
business until 1852, when he removed to Tonawanda. Here he entered 
the dry goods business and during his residence there held town offices, 
such as trustee and president of the village. In 1860 he served one 
term in the Legislature, and after the inauguration of President Lincoln 
was appointed customs officer and served four years in that capacity. 
In 1872 Mr. Newell came to Saratoga Springs and for sixteen years 
was engaged in the mercantile business. May 26, 1886, he was elected 
director of the Citizens' Bank, and the following year served as vice- 
president of the bank. 

Mr. Newell married Phoebe Ter Bush, who died in 1894, and he has 
two sons: John Augustus of Portland, Oregon, and George R. of Min- 
neapolis, Minn., and had two daughters: Lillian Stone Newell, who 
resides with her father, and Alice R. (who married Mr. Henry Tyler 
Johnson). She died April 12, 1882, leaving one son, George Newell 
Johnson. 





d 








f^^ |Ry* 






11 • 


<. 


V 


1^^ . 

^■V 


r' 




X i^ 



HIRAM NHWELL. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 531 

JAMES B. McKEAN. 

Hon. James Bedell McKean, an able lawyer and the man who 
raised the One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment and went out as its 
colonel, was born at Hoosick, Rensselaer county, N. Y., August 5, 
1821, a son of Rev. Andrew and Catharine (Bedell) McKean. When 
he was an infant the family removed to this county, settling on the 
battlefield of Saratoga. After residing for some time in the town of 
Saratoga they removed to a farm in Halfmoon, near and southeast of 
Round Lake. 

James B. McKean was educated in the common schools, and by in- 
dividual reading. He taught several terms in the district schools of the 
vicinity, and was also, for a time, one of the professors in Jonesville 
Academy, and when but twenty-one years old was elected town super- 
intendent of common schools for Halfmoon. While still a young man 
he was elected colonel of the One Hundred and Forty fourth Regiment 
of New York State Militia and commanded that regiment for some 
years. He read law in the office of Bullard & Cramer at Waterford, 
and in 1847 was admitted. He began practice at Ballston, but in 1851 
removed to Saratoga Springs. 

His service in the Civil war is elsewhere noticed m this work. In 
the fall of 1854 he was nominated for county judge by a Republican 
convention held at Ballston Spa, believed to have been the first Repub- 
lican convention held in this State. He was elected and served four 
years. In 1858 the Republicans of the Fifteenth district elected him 
to Congress, and re-elected him in 1860. 

In the spring of 1865 President Lincoln sent him to Spanish America 
to exchange the ratification of a treaty with the government of Hon- 
duras. Afterwards he was tendered the appointment as consul to San 
Domingo, which, however, he declined. In 1870 President Grant ap- 
pointed him chief justice of the Superior Court of Utah Territory, a 
position which he held for five years. For a number of years subse- 
quent he engaged in private practice in Salt Lake City. 



HENRY WALTON. 

Henry Walton was born in the city of New York, October 8, 1768, 
and when an infant was sent to England to be educated. In his twen- 



532 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tieth year he returned to New York and began the study of law with 
Aaron Burr. In 1790 he went to Ballston and erected a house on the 
" Delevan Farm." During his residence in Ballston he officiated as 
surrogate from 1794 to 1808. Subsequently he resided in Albany where 
he erected "Pine Grove, " which afterwards became the residence of 
Reuben Hyde Walworth. 

In 1816 he came to the village of Saratoga Springs and took po.sses- 
sion of real estate descended to him from his father and uncle Gerard. 
In a few years he became one of the largest landholders in the place, 
his possessions including all the present village except that portion ly- 
ing south of Congress street and the mineral fountains. He built a 
beautiful residence, which he named " Woodlawn," and e-xcavated and 
tubed many of the springs. During the early years of his residence in 
Saratoga Springs he was associated in legal partnership with Mr. Leavett. 
He is dei5cribed as having been a man of fine physique and of courtly 
and dignified mien, but easily approached and of great liberality and 
kindness. He died in New York city September 15, 184-4, aged seventy- 
six years. 



CHARLES MASON DAVISON. 

Charles Mason Davison is a native of Saratoga Springs, and was 
educated at Union University, graduating from there in 1874, with the 
degree of LL.B. While attending the university he also read law with 
Hon. J. R. Putnam, and was admitted to the bar in November, 1874. 
Immediately after his admission he began the practice of his profession 
in Saratoga Springs, and in 1877 was elected justice of the peace, re- 
taining that office until 1881. In 1884he was appointeda commissioner 
of the United States Circuit Court for the northern district of New 
York, a position he has held with distinction from that time up to the 
present; in 1887 he was elected a member of the board of education 
and was president of the board during the year 1891, and re-elected 
president in 1898, still serving in that capacity. In 1896 Mr. Davi- 
son was appointed a member of the committee of international arbi- 
tration of the New York State Bar Association, and as secretary of 
said committee, he assisted in formulating the treaty made by Presi- 
dent Cleveland to secure international arbitration. He was the suc- 
cessful attorney in the famous case of Pompey vs. the village of Sara- 







-"'W^B!'' 



CHARLES M. UAVISON. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 633 

toga Springs, which settled the law of the liability of municipal cor- 
porations to the traveling public. 

On June 31, 1883, Mr. Uavison married Jeannie, daughter of Col. A. 
L. McDougall of Salem, Washington county, N. Y. Mr. Davison's 
parents were John M. and Sarah (Walworth) Davison. John M. was 
a native of Vermont and came to Saratoga Springs in his boyhood. He 
was appointed register in chancer}^ and resided in Albany until 1848, 
when he returned to Saratoga Springs; he was also president of the 
Saratoga and Whitehall Railroad, now the Delaware and Hudson Rail- 
road. His wife was a daughter of Chancellor Walworth, one of the 
best known and ablest jurists the State has ever produced. The Da- 
visons are of English descent and trace their line back to the days of 
Egbert, the first king of England. Mr. Davison is a member of the 
Society of Colonial Wars, and of the Sons of the American Revolution. 



OLIVER L. BARBOUR. 

Through the work of bright ;uid earnest men the Saratoga county 
bar gained a State and national reputation, and none is more entitled 
to rank with the foremost of its intellectual giants than the subject of 
this brief notice. 

Oliver L. Barbour was born in Washington county, N. Y., in 1811, 
and removed to Saratoga Springs when a youth. He was a relative 
of Reuben Hyde Walworth, and as the "Chancellor's" confidential 
clerk gained a wide and thorough knowledge of law. He rose to em- 
inence, principally through the authorship of legal treatises, all of 
which hold high rank, having been commended by Chief Justice Story, 
the American jurist, and other authorities of repute. 

He wrote the following treatises: " Equity Digest, Embracing Eng- 
lish, Irish and American Reports" in four volumes, " Collyer on Part- 
nerships," " Chitty on Bills," "A Treatise on Criminal Law," "A 
Treatise on the Law of Set-off," "A Treatise on the Court of Chan- 
cery " in two volumes, "Reports of Cases decided in the Court of 
Chancery" in three volumes, "Reports of Cases decided in the Su- 
preme Court of the State of New York " in eighteen volumes, and re- 
visions of his " Chancery Practice " and " Equity Practice." Hamilton 
College conferred upon him the honorary degree of LL.D. 



534 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

W.ILLIAM HENRY McKITTRICK. 

Capt. William Henry McKittrick, a gallant soldier and good citi- 
zen of Saratoga county, in whose honor Ballston Spa Post No. 46, G. 
A. R., is named, was born in Granville, Washington county, N. Y., 
October 23, 1829, a son of Bernard and Ann (Ewing) McKittrick. 
Bernard McKittrick was a native of England and came to America in 
the early twenties. For a short time he was located in Quebec, Canada, 
thence removing to Granville, Washington county, where his son Will- 
iam Henry was born, and subsecjuently to Ballston, Saratoga county, 
where he became a prominent citizen, living to the advanced age of 
eighty years. He was a hatter by trade, but for many years was en- 
gaged in the retail confectionery trade. He served the town as col 
lector in 1851, 1854, 1857, 1859 to 18G3, 1805, and from 1868 to 1877. 

During his early boyhood the subject of this notice worked about his 
father's store and attended the common schools. He seemed, however, 
to have inherited a military spirit, for at the extremely early age of 
seventeen years he enlisted in the United States army to serve through 
the Mexican war. At the outbreak of the Civil war he was among the 
first to volunteer, and went out as captain of Company C, 115th Regi- 
ment N. Y. Vols. He was a man of intense devotion to duty and a 
stern disciplinarian, but withal so humane and considerate of those 
under his command that he won the love and respect of all. Captain 
McKittrick gave his life for his country. He was killed at the battle 
of Fort Gilmer, on the north side of the James river near Richmond, 
while leading his company in a gallant charge against masked batteries 
of the enemy. 

Captain McKittrick was a Free and Accepted Mason and a member 
of the Episcopal church of Ballston Spa. For a number of years he 
held a position of trust in the county clerk's office. He married Caro- 
line Holmes, a daughter of Hugh Holmes, and two children were born 
to them: William H. and Mary J. William H. is extensively engaged 
in cattle raising at Bakersfield, California. He married Mary L., 
daughter of Major-General William R. Shaffer. William Holmes Mc- 
Kittrick's name will go down in history, for as a captain on the staff of 
General Shaffer during the late war with vSpain, he raised the first 
American flag at Santiago, July 17, 1898. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 535 

WILLIAM J. REDMOND. 

William J. Redmond, who died at Ballston Spa, March 9, 1893, was 
one of the self-made men of Saratoga county. He was born at Chat- 
ham, N. Y., and came to Ballston in 1874, with no capital save a fund 
of inexhaustible energy, perseverance, and indomitable will power. 
He soon placed himself among the foremost business men of the place, 
and his death in the prime of a useful life was a blow to the entire 
business community. Mr. Redmond was engaged in many enterprises, 
all of which contributed in a measure to the prosperity of the village. 
With Thomas Kelsey he erected the Opera House block, which adds 
much to the architecture of the village. 

He married, in 1881, Mary J. McKittrick, daughter of Capt. William 
Henry and Caroline (Holmes) McKittrick. Of their union are four 
children: Caroline, John ^McKittrick, Bernard Holmes and Mary 
Shafter. 



BERNARD J. McDONOUCxH. 

Rev. Bernard J. McDonough, the able and popular pastor of St. 
Mary's Catholic church at Ballston Spa, and an earnest and learned 
Christian gentleman, is a son of James and Catherine (Lynch) Mc- 
Donough, and was born in the city of Albany, N. Y., July 6, 1840. 
His father was a native of the city of Dublin, Ireland, who came to the 
L^nited States when only twelve years of age and located at Utica, N. 
Y. In 1826 he removed to Albany, the State capital, and resided in 
that city until his death, November 12, 1883, when in the seventy-sixth 
year of his age. He was a master painter by occupation and a large 
contractor in his line. As such he painted the Catholic cathedral at 
Albany when it was built, and executed many other contracts for the 
painting and decorating of large buildings. Politically he was a Dem- 
ocrat and in religion a member of the Catholic church. In 1832 he 
married Catherine Lynch, a daughter of Thomas Lynch, of Albany, 
N. Y., b)' whom he had a family of nine children, five sons and four 
daughters. Mrs. McDonough died at her home in Albany, August 7, 
1892, aged seventy-five years. Her father, Thomas Lynch, was a na- 
tive of Donegal, Ireland, and the family came to the United States by 
the way of Quebec, Canada. They first located at Fairhaven, Vt., be- 



536 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ing among the first Irish settlers of that section, and after a few years 
removed to Albany, N. Y. 

Rev. Bernard J. McDonough was educated at the Albany Academy, St. 
Charles College, Baltimore, and Niagara University, at Niagara Falls, 
N.Y. He was ordained at St. Michael's Seminary, Pittsburg, Pa., Fri- 
day, July 29, 1870, by Bishop Tobias Mullen, of Erie, that State, his 
bishop, R. Rev. John J. Conroy, of Albany, being called to Rome on 
official business. His first active work was done as assistant to Father 
Howard, at Ilion, N. Y. , where he remained for two years. Early in 1873 
he went to Camillns, Onondaga county, N. Y., as pastor of St. Joseph's 
church, where he also had charge of the Jordan mission, and enlarged 
the present handsome church. He remained at Camillus for three 
years and six months, engaged in earnest and active work in behalf of 
his people, with whom he became very popular and in 1879 removed to 
Marcellus, same county, wliere he became the pastor of St. Francis 
church, and also had charge of the Otisco mission. In that charge he 
labored successfully until October G, 1878, when he came to Ballston 
Spa, Saratoga county, as pastor of St. Mary's church, where he has 
since remained. After coming here, in addition to his other pastorate, 
he had charge of the Charlton mission until it was attached to the mis- 
sion of (ialway in 1885, and also of the South Ballston mission, which 
is still under his care. When F'ather McDonough took charge of St. 
Mary's church he found the parish in debt for the old church property, 
and immediately began systematic efforts to pay off the debt and 
arrange for the erection of a large and better church edifice. During 
the second year of his pastorate lie purchased the present site of St. 
Mary's church at a cost of ten thousand and five hundred dollars, and 
in the spring of 1893 began the erection of a handsome church building 
of modern design, which has cost fifty thousand dollars. The spiritual 
necessities of his people have been carefully looked after and the con- 
gregation of St. Mary's church has more than doubled since he took 
charge. He is a courteous and scholarly gentleman, a fine theologian 
and an active and energetic jnistor, who has labored faithfully and with 
good success for the mental and moral advancement of his congrega- 
tion. His popularity is not confined to the limits of his own church, 
but e.Ktends among all classes of people in Ballston Spa and the sur- 
rounding territory, where he has labored and is well known. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 53'^ 

JOHN HENRY DE RIDDER. 

John Henry De Ridder, a prominent citizen and financier of Sara- 
toga Springs, was born in Easton, Washington county, N. Y. , a son of 
Henry and Catherine Ann (Schermerhorn) De Ridder. On both sides 
he descends from Holland Dutch slock, his mother having been a mem- 
ber of the well known family of Schermerhorns of Rensselaer county, 
N. Y., while his father was an old resident of Washington county. Mr. 
De Ridder was educated in the common schools and at Williston Sem- 
inary, East Hampton, Mass. All of his business life has been passed 
in the employ and direction of financial institutions. He entered the 
Bank of Old Saratoga in 1864 when it was a State bank. In July, 1865, 
the institution was reorganized under the title of the National Bank of 
Schuylerville and Mr. De Ridder held the position of teller until 1877 
when he became cashier. In 1881, in connection with others, Mr. De 
Ridder organized the Citizens National Bank of Saratoga Springs, be- 
coming a director and also cashier, which position he resigned in Jan- 
uary, 188a. In September, 1891, he again became a director of this 
bank and in January, 1892, was elected cashier, a trust in which he still 
continues. While a resident of Schuylerville Mr. De Ridder held many 
positions of public trust in the town and village government. He 
served as supervisor several terms (chairman of the the board one year), 
as trustee of the village and president of the board of education. For 
over twenty-five years he was an official member of the Schuylerville 
Dutch Reformed church, and served the society for twenty-two con- 
secutive years as superintendent of the Sunday school. As previously 
stated Mr. De Ridder is of Holland Dutch extraction, being a lineal 
descendant of Evert De Ridder, a Hollander who settled in Albany 
prior to 1G88. He is a member of the Holland Society of New York. 

He married, February 36, 1868, Miss Marie T. Hannum, daughter 
of Nathan O. and Jane G. (Tinker) Hannum, and a member of an old 
New England family of Puritan origin. Their children are three; Isa- 
bella Graham, wife of George H. Ames of Brooklyn, N. Y. ; Mary Han- 
num, and John Howard of Saratoga Springs. Politically Mr. De Ridder 
is a Democrat. He is secretar}' and treasurer of the Schuylerville Bridge 
Company and holds a similar position in the S. E. G. Rawson Company 
of Saratoga Spring.s. His career is a remarkably good illustration of 
the success that can be attained by industry, enterprise and the strict- 
est integrity. 



538 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

WILLIAM J. DELANEY. 

William J. Delanev, son of James and Margaret (Fitzpatrick) De- 
laney, was born in the town of Greenfield, this county, August 31, 
1804. His father was a native of Queens county, Ireland, and em- 
igrated to America in 1851. He settled first in Saratoga Springs 
where he worked at his trade (carpenter) for a number of years. Dur- 
ing the latter years of his life he resided in Greenfield where he was 
engaged in farming. He died December 11, 1898, in the seventy- 
seventh year of his age, honored and respected by all who had known 
him. 

William J. Delaney was educated in the Saratoga Springs High 
School and at Cornell Universitj' from which he was graduated LL. B. 
with the class of 1890. During the latter portion of his course in the 
High School and throughout his entire college course Mr. Delaney 
taught in the common schools of Saratoga county. He was admitted 
to the Saratoga bar in December, 1890, and began practice in Saratoga 
Springs, forming a law partnership with Charles M. Davison under 
the firm name of Davison & Delaney. In October, 1897, the firm be- 
came Davison, Delaney & Phillips, by the admission of Mr. Phillips, 
and so continued until November 1, 1898, when Mr. Delaney withdrew. 
He has since practiced alone at No. 1 1 Ainsworth Place. 

Mr. Delaney is a staunch Democrat in politics and was a candidate 
for member of assembly in 1895, but was unable to overcome the great 
Republican majority of the district. In March, 1898, he was elected 
police justice of the village of Saratoga Springs, in which capacitj'he is 
still serving. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Pythias; 
first grand knight of Saratoga Council, Knights of Columbus; and a 
member of the I.O.R.M., of which he is past sachem and district deputy 
of his district. He is also a member of the Jeffersonian Club of Sara- 
toga Springs. Mr. Delaney is one of the incorporators of the Red 
Men's Home Association of the State of New York, whose purpose is 
the erection of a home at Saratoga Springs for members of the I.O.R. M. 



JOHN CRAMER. 

Hon. John Cramer, " The Democratic Warwick of Saratoga County," 
was for years a power in Democratic politics of the State and Nation. 




WILLIAM J. DELANEY. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 639 

He was a son of Conrad Cramer and was born five miles south of Schny- 
lerville, May 14, 1779. He chose law as his profession, and about 1800, 
after his admission to the bar, opened an ofTfice at Waterford, where he 
resided all his life. At an early age he entered political life. He 
served in the Assembly in 1806, 1811, and 1841; in the State Senate 
from 1833 to 1825, and as a Jackson Democrat, in the House of Rep- 
resentatives of the United States from 1833 to 1837. In 1804 he was a 
presidential elector and voted for Clinton and Jefferson. He was a 
member of the State Constitutional Convention in 1831. 

For many years he was the trusted friend of Polk, who trusted im- 
plicitly in his judgment and whom he aided in his canvass for the 
Speakership of the House. He also helped to make the political for- 
tunes of Marcy and Van Buren, and brought forward Samuel Young as 
a candidate for governor. He was a natural leader, and had " bossism" 
been brought to the state of perfection which now exists, would have 
been the accepted as well as the nominal leader of his party in this State 
for nearly fifty years. Mr. Cramer was an ardent War Democrat. 
" He headed a subscription in the town of Waterford with the sum of 
$1,000 to aid in raising volunteers for the war. When the company 
from that town was organized under Captain Yates, and marched for 
the camp at North Troy, John Cramer, on foot, marched at the head of 
the column, although then upwards of eighty-two years old." Mr. 
Cramer amassed a large fortune, which he left to his surviving children, 
four sons and two daughters. He was a man of large generosity and 
gave freely of his wealth to the poor. 



JOHN AV. HOWE. 

John W. Howe, general manager of the Daily and Weekly Saratogian, 
was born September 8, 1849, at Fortsville, in the township of Moreau, 
Saratoga county, N. Y., a son of Thomas C. and Lurena (Belts) Howe. 
The family is of English origin and its representatives were early set- 
tlers in America. Peter Howe, paternal grandfather of John W. 
Howe, was born in the town of Ballston but lived for many years in 
the town of Moreau where he died at an advanced age. 

Their son, Thomas C. Howe, was born in Ballston in 1817 and re- 
sided all his life in Saratoga county. When a young man he learned 
the carpenter's trade and was also for a period of about seven years en- 



640 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLfi. 

gaged in manufacturing builders' supplies at South Glens Falls. The 
greater portion of his active life, however, was devoted to agriculture. 
He joined the Methodist Episcopal Society when a mere boy and all 
through life held strictly to the teachings of his sect. In politics he 
was a Whig and Republican and for over twenty years was a justice of 
the peace in the town of Moreau. He died June 2, 1870, in the fifty- 
ninth year of his age, honored and respected. 

John W. Hov;e was educated in the common schools of the town of 
Moreau and village of South Glens Falls. When in his eighteenth year 
he engaged in the milling business at Fortsville, being a member of the 
firm of Howe & Griswold. As an individual enterprise he also con- 
ducted a general store there, giving early evidence of a business ability 
that has since been appreciated in wider fields. During his residence 
at Fortsville he served as postmaster three terms. In 1880 he disposed 
of his milling interest, and two years later the stock in trade and good 
will of his general mercantile business, removing to Saratoga Springs 
to take a position as manager and cashier in the office of the .Saratoga 
Journal, a daily and weekly newspaper published by Col. David F. 
Ritchie, with whom he remainetl about five years. At the end of this 
period he became business manager and secretary of the Saratoga 
Union, a daily and weekly, for the establishment of which, he, in asso- 
ciation with others, had formed a joint stock company. After a period 
of two years the paper was sold to Spencer, Trask & Co. Mr. Howe 
then engaged in the retail clothing business at No. 466 Broadway, 
forming a copartnership with Ervin Palmer under the firm name of 
Howe & Palmer. Owing to the business depression of 1892-!).') the en- 
terprise was unsuccessful, and in May, 1894, Mr. Howe organized the 
Saratoga Press Association to publish a daily and weekly newspaper — 
The Saratoga Press — of which he became general manager. Tlie en- 
terprise proved a signal success and in the following year was merged 
into the Daily and Weekly Saratogian. Mr. Howe became general 
manager of the Saratogian which position he still fills. It is no idle 
compliment to say that under Mr. Howe's management this paper, 
the leading journal of the county, has n<jt only largely increased its 
circulation, but its influence as well. 

In politics Mr. Howe has always been a staunch Republican and 
for years has been one of the recognized leader in the county. He 
served as president of the Veterans' and Citizens' League of Saratoga 
Springs for five years, and as a member of the Republican County 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 641 

Committee for a period of six years. In 1894 he was nominated for 
president of the village, but after one of the most exciting and closely 
contested elections ever known in this section was defeated by a close 
majority. As a prominent member of the dominant political part}' and 
as manager of the leading newspaper in the county Mr. Howe has 
wielded a substantial influence. He is a man who combines to a re- 
markable extent the qualities of energy, enterprise and abilit}-. 

Mr. Howe married, in June, 1877, Miss Lucy A. Ryan, daughter of 
George Ryan of Moreau, who died April 20, 1898. Their children are 
three daughters: Elizabeth M., Mabel I. and Ethel L. 



RANSOM COOK. 

Ransom Cook, son of Joseph and Mary Ann (Tolman) C'ook, was born 
in Wallingford, New Haven county, Conn., November 8, 1794. His 
parents removed to Saratoga County when he was a youth of seven 
years, and he learned the trade of furniture manufacturer in his 
father's shop. He early evinced a mechanical ability of high order and 
when but twelve years of age manufactured electrical machines for 
several physicians of the county, which were considered remarkable as 
the work of so young a boy. When nineteen years of age he went into 
business for himself as a furniture manufacturer, and in 1827-28 erect- 
ed an extensive shop on South Broadway. This shop was fitted with a 
quantity of improved machinery, the first of the kind known in the vil- 
lage. Mr. Cook devoted a considerable part of his time to the man- 
ufacture of scientific apparatus, which he not only used in his private 
researches, but sold to colleges and other public institutions, for he was 
a scientist of considerable repute. He obtained fifteen patents on vari- 
ous devices. 

For sixteen years Mr. Cook served the town as justice of the peace. 
In 1842 he was appointed commissioner to examine the mineral re- 
gions of the State, and to obtain proposals for the sale of mines with a 
view to the employment of convicts in mining and smelting. When 
Clinton prison was established Mr. Cook was appointed both agent and 
warden, and his management was the subject of much commendation. 
He built the prison, the steam saw mill, foundry, machine shop, dwell- 
ing for his own and the clerk's family, with four or five other buildings 
and a large amount of machinery. He continued in service until re- 
moved by a change in politics. 



542 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

BYRON J. MURRAY, M. D. 

Byron J. Murray, M. D., was born in Luzerne, Warren county, N. 
Y. , February 27, 1850, a son of Dr. George and Angcline (Canfield) 
Murray. The family is of Scotch origin and representatives lived in 
Edinburgh for many generations. About the year 1700 Samuel Mur- 
ray, wife, and two sons, moved to Yorkshire, England, where they re- 
sided until 1740, during which period two sons were born, Jasper Drake 
and Joseph. 

Jasper Drake Murray, great-grandfather of Dr. B.J. Murray, subject 
of this sketch, was born in Yorkshire, England, January 10, 173(5, and 
died December 15, 1826. His father died in 1750 when Jasper Drake 
Murray was fourteen years of age. Jasper Drake Murray's mother 
bound him to her brother-in law, Joseph Murray, who had no children, 
but owing to abuse and maltreatment from his aunt he gathered all his 
possessions (consisting of one extra shirt tied in a red handkerchief) 
and ran away to enlist in the English navy. After serving five years 
he was honorably discharged and at once emigrated to America, settling 
in Litchfield, Mass. During the French and Indian war he enlisted as 
a private, but soon gained the rank of captain and served with distinc- 
tion and honor. He participated in the severe confiict at Bloody Pond 
in Warren county, N. Y., at the time Major William Williams was killed 
on or near the spot where the latter's memorial monument now stands. 
At the close of the war he returned to Litchfield, Mass., where he mar- 
ried Sybil Lewis. Three sons were born of this union, George (grand- 
father of Dr. Murray), Philemon and Aaron, also three daughters. 
When the war for Independence began, Jasper Drake Murray re-enlisted 
in the American army, serving faithfully until peace was restored. The 
government granted him a large tract of land near Danbury, Conn., 
where remained from 17813 to 17!*8 and then removed to Luzerne, 
Warren county, N. Y. 

His son George married Sojjhia Pitcher, daughter of Jonathan Pitcher, 
an officer in the English armj' who fought against the Americans all 
through the Revolution. They lived first at Danbury, Conn., but later 
removed to Glens Falls in the township of Queensbury, Warren county, 
N. Y. Eight children were born of this union, of whom George Mur- 
ray, jr., father of Byron J. Murray, was one. 

George Murray, jr., was educated for the medical profession at Cas- 
tleton Academy, Vt., and practiced many years in Luzerne, winning 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 648 

the confidence of his patients, and the respect of his fellow men. He 
died May 22, 186;J, in the (ifty-first year of his ajje. He married An- 
geline Canfield, daughter of Sacket and Sarah (Smith) Canfield. The 
Canfields trace their genealogy more than five hundred and fifty years. 
They were of Calvanistic French origin (Huguenots). Angeline (Can- 
field) Murray was born in Lu/,crne, April .30, 181.5, and died December 
20, 1S93, aged seventy-eight years. 

The subject of this sketch was educated largely by his own efforts, 
having early discovered that a good education is the foundation and 
fundamental jirinciple of success. To this end he applied a strong phy- 
si(|ue coupled with energy and pluck, working hard during the summer 
months to obtain funds sufficient to enable him to attend school in win- 
ter. During his sixteenth year he removed to Hamilton, Michigan, 
where he soon after became a half owner in a thriving drug store, his 
partner being Dr. Charles H. Kimber, a skilled pliysician, with whom 
he soon began reading medicine. At the age of twenty he sold his in- 
terest in the drug business and entered the University of Michigan at 
Ann Arbor, taking lirst a literary and then the medical course. He 
received tiie degree M. D. March 29, 1870, and began practice at La 
Grange, Ind. , where he remained less than a year and thence removed 
to Wiltonville, Saratoga county, where he remained in successful prac- 
tice nearly a decade. In 188() he removed to New York city where for 
one year he combined the practice of his professitjn with study at Colum- 
bia College and in numerous hospitals. 

He began his practice in Saratoga Springs in 1S87. Dr. Murray 
has gained an enviable reputation as a physician and surgeon and is a 
frequent contributor to medical journals. In politics he iias been a 
Republican but with the exception (jf a service of two years as a super- 
visor from the town of Wilton (1881-188:$) he has never held public 
office. Fraternally he is a Past Grand member of Hathornc Lodge No. 
241, L O. O. F. 

Of Dr. Murray's family, only one brother, four years his senior, sur- 
vives; Dr. George Sackett Murray, a practicing physician of this 
county. Dr. Murray married, January 14, 1874, Ida V. Stowe, daugh- 
ter of William R. Stowe of Batavia, N. Y., and granddaughter of 
Samuel Stowe, member of an old Puritan family and a noted patriot in 
the war of 1812 in which he won honor and promotion for distinguished 
bravery. Only one child was born of this union, Stowe Leon, now de- 
ceased. Dr. and Mrs. Murray are associated with the First I'resby- 



544 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

terian church of vSaratoga Springs and are largely interested in char- 
itable work. 



JOHN H. BURKE. 

Hon. John H. Burke, Ballston Spa, was born in the town of Half- 
moon, Saratoga county, N. Y., August 21, 18.56, a son of Patrick and 
Ellen (Purcell) Burke, natives of county Waterford, Ireland, both of 
whom came to the United States about 18-10, and settled in Mechanic- 
ville. 

Mr. Burke was educated in the common schools and at the Mechanic- 
ville Academy, Fort Edward Collegiate Institute, and was graduated 
from Williams College in 188-1. Although working his way through 
college he was twice honored by his classmates in being chosen Class 
President, once during the Sophomore year, and again Class Day Pres- 
ident in the Senior year. He began the study of law in the office of 
L'Amoreaux, Dake & Whalen, in 1884, and was admitted to the bar in 
1886. Just prior to his admission in the year 1886 he was nominated 
for member of assembly and was the first Democratic assemblyman 
elected from Saratoga county since 1878. At the expiration of his term 
he continued the practice of law in Mechanicville for three years. In 
1891 he formed a partnership at Ballston Spa with John Person under the 
firm name of Burke & Person. In 1880 he was appointed Inspector in 
the Forest Commission of the State of New York, and continued in that 
capacity until 1895, his duties being principally of a legal nature. Since 
1895 he has devoted his entire time to the general practice of the law, 
giving special attention to tax questions and Adirondack ta.x titles, for 
which his service with the Forest Commission had especially fitted 
him. 

In 1891 Mr. Burke married Minnie A., daughter of J. G. Christopher. 
He is one of the progressive men of his town, a Democrat in politics, 
and has served several terms as chairman of the Democratic County 
Committee; he takes an intelligent interest in educational and religious 
institutions, and has ever advanced the best interests of his town. In 
1897 he was chosen to fill a vacancy in the Board of Directors of the 
Ballston Spa National Bank, occasioned by the death of Henry Knick- 
erbocker, a connection which he still holds. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 545 

WILLIAM L. F. WARREN. 

Hon. William La Fayette Warren was born at Troy, N. Y. , Feb- 
ruary 4, 1793. He was graduated at Union College in 1814 and read 
law in the office of Judge Esek Cowen at Saratoga Springs. After his 
admission he formed a partnership with Judge Cowen, which continued 
until 1824. He served as district attorney from 1819 to 1836, was "mas- 
ter in chancery, injunction and taxing master," from 1834 to 1848, and 
served with ability as judge of the Court of Common Pleas from 1845 
to 1848. In the latter year Judge Warren was a Democratic presi- 
dential elector, but after the Civil war affiliated with the Republican 
party. 

He was a man of fine presence, genial, patient and forbearing, and 
ranked high as a jury pleader and an authority on land titles. In con- 
nection with his extensive practice he was also actively interested in 
large business interests, aided largely in building the Saratoga and 
Whitehall railroad, and was associated with the organizers of the Sche- 
nectady Bank and the Bank of Saratoga Springs. He was a man of 
firm religious beliefs and from childhood was a member of the Presby- 
terian Society. He died at his residence in Saratoga Springs, May 23, 
1875, having reached the advanced age of seventy-eight years. 



HARMANUS SCHUYLER. 

Harmanus Schuyler died at his home in Stillwater, September 1, 
179G. He was a hero of the Revolution, a brother of Philip Schuyler, 
major general in command of the Northern Department, who appointed 
him assistant deputy quartermaster-general. In this capacity he had 
charge of the workmen engaged in building boats at the fort on Lake 
George and at Whitehall. He was required to raise an army and make 
preparations for the invasion of Canada by way of Lake Champlain, 
but Congress failed to furnish him mone\- or men and he was obliged 
to use his large private fortune and unlimited credit or he would have 
failed miserably. By the most indomitable energy and perseverance 
he succeeded in performing his trust. 

Harmanus Schuyler had settled in Stillwater about the year 1770 and 
engaged in the milling business. His mills were located a short dis- 
tance below the present village and consisted of a grist, saw, carding 
35 



546 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and fulling mill. Before locating at Stillwater he had been in business 
in Albany for some years, and was high sheriff of Albany county from 
June, 1761, to October, 1770. He also served as assistant alderman at 
Albany for some time time. 



R. H. McCARTY, M.D. 

R. H. McCarty, M.D., was born at Grangerville, Saratoga county, 
December 31, 1865, and was educated at the Union Free School, 
Schuylerville, this county. At the age of thirteen years he received 
an appointment in the Schuylerville post-office and was assistant post- 
master of that office for four years under C. H. McNaughton. Having 
decided to make the medical profession his life's vocation, he entered 
che Albany Medical College and was graduated from that institution in 
1886. He depended upon no outside aid to secure his medical educa 
tion and degree, but worked to earn the money necessary for his col- 
lege expenses. In fact, from his thirteenth year he evinced both the 
pluck and ability that have characterized his whole career and which 
have raised him to the front rank of the medical practitioners of the 
State and have made him prominent in public life. 

Immediately after graduating Dr. McCarty began the practice of his 
profession at Schuylerville, where he remained for seven years, or until 
1893, when he removed to vSaratoga Springs and made this place his 
permanent residence. 

His public services have been almost cotemporaneous with his pro- 
fessional life. He was elected coroner in 1886 for a term of three 
years and was subsequently elected coroner to fill out an unexpired 
term of another official. Again, in fall of 1898, he was elected county 
coroner for a term of three years. In 1887 he was elected health 
physician for Victory Mills, was physician and surgeon at police head- 
quarters for two years and town physician for four years. He was also 
town physician for the town of Schuylerville from the time he began 
his practice there until he came to Saratoga Springs, and was health 
officer of the town of Saratoga Springs for two years. 

In politics Dr. McCarty has always been a staunch Republican and 
the many offices he has held indicate not only his popularity but also 
the ability and integrity with which he discharges every public duty. 
Yet no small part of his popularity is unquestionably due to his genial 





^^ ^^ 



//. 




BIOGRAPHICAL. 547 

disposition, liberal mind and unswerving fidelity to his friends. Not 
only is he public spirited but his life is rich in unrecorded benefactions. 

He has been town, ward and district committeeman and chairman of 
the Republican town committee. In political work he is honorable 
yet aggressive and both his friends and opponents realize his influence. 

In 1886 Dr. McCarty married Mary Nalty, who died leaving two 
sons, John N. and Daniel. In the spring of 1898 he married Anna 
Flatley of Cohoes city, an estimable lady, well qualified to contribute 
to the domestic tastes which are a prominent characteristic of Dr. Mc- 
Carty's life, and who takes a keen interest in his professional and public 
duties. 

Dr. McCarty's parents were James and Catherine McCarty. His 
mother died while he was young, but his father still resides at Schuy- 
lerville. James McCarty was a native of Cork, and his wife of Dublin, 
Ireland. 



REV. FRANCIS WAYLAND. 

Francis Wayland was born at Frome, Somersetshire, England, in 
1773. He married in Norwich, Norfolk, Miss Sarah Moore, a native of 
that city. In 1793 they came to this country, settling in the village of 
Saratoga Springs in 1821. Rev. Mr. Wayland was for several years 
pastor of the First Baptist church of Saratoga Springs, and after retir- 
ing from his charge, having a competent income, continued to reside 
in this village, often supplying the desks of neighboring destitute 
churches without compensation. He was a staunch advocate of the 
cause of temperance based on Christian principle, and a man of great 
influence in the community ; always ready to extend kindly ministra- 
tion to body or soul. He died at his home in Saratoga Springs in 1849. 



GIDEON M. DAVISON. 

Gideon M. Davison was born at Middletown, Vt., a member of the 
famous English and New England family of Davisons, who trace their 
descent to the time of Edward the Third of England. He was educat- 
ed in common schools, and when but a youth began the printing trade 
at Rutland, Vt. He afterwards worked in New York city, but returned 



548 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

to Rutland and entered into partnership with William Fay. This firm 
established the Rutland Herald and also published a "History of the 
War of 1812. " Mr. Davison removed to Saratoga in 1817 and established 
the vSaratoga Sentinel, the first number being issued in April, 1818. 
This paper proved very successful and for a number of years was the 
leading paper of the county. Mr. Davison also printed and published 
"Cowen's Court Reports of the State of New York," edited and pub- 
lished an edition of "Stevens' Arithmetic," a quarto family Bible, 
" Smith's Lectures to the Unconverted," several editions of Dr. Steel's 
"Analysis of the Mineral Waters," " Goodrich's Spelling Book," and 
in association with Judge Warren, compiled and published a guide book 
which appeared under the titles of "The Fashionable Tour" and the 
"Northern Tourist." 

Mr. Davison was a man of great public spirit, being especially inter- 
ested in the establishment and extension of railroads, to which several 
of the most active years of his life were devoted. For years he was a 
ruling elder and superintendent of the Sabbath school of the Presby- 
terian church. He died October 1, 1869, aged seventy-eight years. 
On the day after his death a public meeting was held, at which addresses 
were made and resolutions adopted eulogizing his public achievements 
and private virtues. During the funeral, business on Broadway was 
suspended and the bells of all the churches were tolled. 



ALBERT O. WILLCOX. 

Albert O. Willcox was born in New York city, May 10, ISIO. He 
was a rare and estimable gentleman, and had taken part, not only in 
important business transactions, and associated intimately with leading 
national characters, but also participated in great national questions. 
He was, for some year.s, confidential financial manager (dispenser of 
credits) to the great merchant, A. T. Stewart, where his incorrupti- 
bility, humanity, integrity and ability were, at times, fully tested. He 
was a fearless anti slavery man, and all his long life of eighty-seven 
years he conscientiously cast both his moral and political influence on 
the side of right as against might. Subsequent to his (voluntary) sev- 
erance of relations with A. T. Stewart he established in Paris, London 
and leading cities of the United States, what was then called the Dunn 
Mercantile Agency, and which is now the highest authority forcredits 




ALBERT OLIVER WILLCOX. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 549 

in the United States, and probably in Europe. Later, Mr. Willcox and 
son, Hamilton Willcox, established in New York a life and fire insur- 
ance which, under the very able management of Albert Willcox & 
Co., has grown to large proportions in cotton, and marine, and other 
business, as also in large European connections. 

Mr. Willcox's first wife was a highly intellectual and cultivated lady. 
.She was also born in New York city, and was the daughter of James 
H. Hamilton. Mr. Willcox's second wife survives him. She was a 
daughter of John V. Stanton, of Amsterdam, N. Y. She had studied 
and practiced medicine in New York city. Her few years with her 
venerable husband, whom she revered for his amiability and high 
character, was full of that happiness which is the reward of merit, and 
her appreciation of one of the noblest of men. Mr. Willcox is survived 
by two brothers (both Congregational clergymen) and a sister. The 
type of excellence and superiority which so distinguishes one member 
of this family distinguishes them all. 



JOHN H. STEEL, M. D. 

John Honevwood Steei. was one of the most notable men of Saratoga 
county. He was born in Leicester, Mass., in 1780, a son of Samuel 
and Anne (Garfield) Steel, and a lineal descendant of William Steel, esci., 
magistrate, counsellor, recorder of London, baronet, and lord-lieuten- 
ant of Ireland. 

When he was a youth Dr. Steel left home, and his parents dying 
soon after, he never returned. He began the study of his profession 
in the office of Daniel Bull, M. D., of Saratoga, and in 1829 received 
the honorary degree of M. D. from the University of the State of New 
York. (He had received his diploma to practice " physic and surgery" 
in 1800.) For thirty years he was a moving spirit and official member 
of the Saratoga County Medical Society. He was also president of the 
New York .State Medical Society for a time. 

Dr. Steel was appointed surgeon of the Fourth Regiment of Cavalry 
of New York State and served in the war of 1812 He was also at one 
time an assistant surgeon in the Navy and was present at the bombard- 
ment of Algiers. He was a prominent Mason, an official member of 
the Albany Lyceum of Natural History, and eithei an honorary or cor- 
responding member of every scientific or historical association of note 



550 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLfi. 

in North America and many in Europe. He served as judge of the 
Saratoga County Court of Common Pleas for several years, and as post- 
master of the village of Saratoga Springs. 



PETER V. WIGGINS. 

Peter Vail Wiggins, was born at Southold, Suffolk county, L. I., 
June 23, 1793. He came to Saratoga county about the year 1820, first 
settling in the town of Greenfield, under the auspices of his uncle, 
James Vail. He remained in Greenfield but a short time, and in the 
summer of 1822 removed to Saratoga Springs, where he engaged in 
business as a general merchant. As a business man he was possessed 
of great foresight and ability, becoming the leading merchant of the 
village. He married, October 26, 1825, Mary S. Andrews, widow of 
Henry W. Andrews, and daughter of Dr. Joshua Porter, and of their 
children four reached maturity: Martha Vail, Augusta Porter, Mary 
Ellsworth and Peter Porter. Mr. Wiggins died at his home in Saratoga 
Springs, May 28, 1862. 



THE BATCHELLER FAMILY. 

The Batcheller family is one of the early settled families of Edin- 
burgh, and was founded by Ambrose Batcheller, who came in 1808 
from Vermont, and settled about one mile from the site of Batcheller- 
ville, which bears his name. To Amos and Sally Batcheller were born 
five children. Their son Sherman was the father of Gen. George S. 
Batcheller, who served with distinction in the Civil war and then went 
to Egypt, where he became a judge in the Court of the Khedive. 
Rensselaer, another son, had three children, one of whom is Lt.-Com. 
Oliver H. Batcheller, who also won recognition in the Civil war. 



EDWARD H. STRANG. 

Edward H. Strang, was born in the township of Stillwater, April 
26, 1847, and educated in the district schools and Fort Edward Insti- 
tute. Many years of his life were devoted to farming. In 1886 he 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 551 

came to Mechanicville and was associated with W. B. Neilson in the 
knit goods business for six years, when he sold his interest to Mr. 
Neilson and in 1892 organized a joint stock compan\' under the corpo- 
rate name of the Mechanicville Knitting Co. ; Mr. Strang is its pres- 
ident, also one of the directors of the Manufacturers National Bank of 
Mechanicville, N. Y., and was president of the village one year. 

December 22, 18G8, he married Francelia Perkins of Ketchum Cor- 
ners, and they have two children : Arthur L. and I. Blanche. Arthur 
L. is superintendent of one of the departments in the factory and mar- 
ried Laura Callanan of Mechanicville. I. Blanche married Fred S. 
Clute of this place. 

Mr. Strang's father, Ira Strang, was born in the township of Still- 
water, in 1811, was well educated and was a practicing physician; he 
married Anna J. Hunt, daughter of Edward Hunt, of his native place, 
and three children were born to them: Edward H. (as above), Dray- 
ton and J. Reid; the last named is a practicing physician in the town- 
ship of Clifton Park. Dr. Ira Strang died in 1891 and his widow in 
1894. Mr. Strang's paternal grandfather was born in Stillwater in 
1785 and his maternal grandfather was born in the same place in 1781, 
and was a soldier in the war of 1812. The Strangs came to Saratoga 
county from Dutchess at the close of the Revolutionary war, locating 
in Stillwater. His greatgrandfather, Thomas Hunt, was a lieutenant 
in the Second Infantry Regiment of New York and participated in the 
battle of Bemis Heights; he married a daughter of Ensign Woodruff 
and bought the farm which is now owned by Edward H. and has been 
in the family continuously. Mrs. Strang's father, Lewis Perkins, was 
born in the town-ship of Saratoga, Saratoga county, in 1813, and mar- 
ried Sarah Barber. Mr. Perkins died in 1880, and his widow survives 
at this date, 1898. 

Mr. Strang is a member of the M. E. church of Mechanicville and 
the chairman of the board of trustees and foremost in all church work. 
He was active in the organization of the Y. M. C. A. of Mechanicville 
and was its first vice-president, and has been its president for the past 
six years; he is also a member of On-da-wa Lodge No. 820, of Mechan- 
icville, F. & A. M. 



652 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLfi. 

WILLIAM M. MARTIN. 

William M. Martin, the leading undertaker of Saratoga Springs, 
was born in that village, October 28, 1867, and is a son of the late Hi- 
ram H., jr., and Ellen M. (Barber) Martin. Robert Martin, great- 
grandfather of William M., was a native of New Jersey, and settled in 
Saratoga county previous to the war of 1812, in which he served as a 
private. He was one of the pioneers of the section, and during his long 
residence took an active part in the development of the varied resources 
of this region. 

Hiram H. Martin, jr., father of William M., was born on Federal 
street, near Congress, Saratoga Springs, was educated in the public 
schools, and in 1861 established the business which is now conducted 
by the subject of this sketch. He was possessed of business ability of 
a high order,'and soon established a reputation for skill in his profes- 
sion which placed him at its head. His death occurred April 23, 1897 ; 
his widow and two children survive him; William M. and Viola G. B. 
William M. Martin was educated in the public schools of Saratoga, 
and at the age of fourteen entered the employ of his father. He early 
showed an aptitude for the business, and later took a course in two, of 
the leading embalming schools, graduating from both with honor. Mr. 
Martin is a licensed embalmer in compliance with the laws of the State 
of New York. On January 1, 1893, he was admitted into partnership 
with his father, under the style of H. H. Martin & Son, and on the 
death of the former the firm style was changed to William M. Martin & 
Co., his sister, Viola G. B. Martin, and mother being his associates. 

The equipment of this well known firm is of the best, thoroughly 
modern in all its detail, and combines a lavish expenditure with perfect 
taste. In tlie conducting of his business Mr. Martin brings to bear an 
expert knowledge of embalming, business enterprise and energy of a 
high order and a careful attention to detail, which assures to his patrons 
entire satisfaction. 

Aside from his business interests, he is a prominent Mason, being a 
member of Rising Sun Lodge, No. 103, F. & A. M., Rising Sun Chap- 
ter, No. 131, R. A. M., Cryptic Council, No. 37, Washington Com- 
mandery, No. 33, Knights Templar of Saratoga Springs, and Oriental 
Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of Troy, N. Y. He is also a 
member of the Royal Arcanuin, Improved Order of Red Men, Associ- 
ation of the Tribe of Northern New York, and the Tri-County Under- 




WILLIAM M. MARTIN. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 563 

takers' Association, and is secretary of the latter. Mr. Martin is a 
member of the National Association of Embalmers and one of the 
membership committee. He served as a trustee of the village of Sara- 
toga vSprings during 1890-97. 

Mr. Martin has been twice married; first on June 29, 1892, to Eliza- 
beth M. Wandell, who died April 2, 1894. On June 3, 189G, he mar- 
ried Jeanne B. , daughter of Judge Elias H. Peters, one of the prominent 
citizens of Saratoga Springs. 



JOSHUA PORTER, M.D, 

Dr. Joshua Porter was the first president of the village of Saratoga 
Springs, and for many years was one of the principal physicians of the 
place, the contemporary of Dr. John H. Steel. He was born in 1759 
at Salisbury, Conn., the eldest son of Col. Joshua Porter, a prominent 
man in his daj', for more than fifty sessions judge of Probate and rep- 
resentative in both the Colonial and State Councils. 

Joshua Porter was educated at Yale College, and after taking his 
M.D. degree was appointed a surgeon's mate in the Continental army. 
In this service he received a wound, which was the cause of his removal 
to Saratoga Springs, in the hopes of deriving benefit from the cura- 
tive properties of the waters. He resided here until his death, which 
occurred in 1831. 



LUCRETIA AND MARGARET DAVIDSON. 

These talented women were residents of Saratoga county, but both 
were born in Plattsburg, Lucretia on the 27th day of September, 1808, 
and Margaret on the 26th day of March, 1823 They were the daugh- 
ters of Dr. Oliver Davidson. Lucretia Maria entered Mrs. Willard's 
Female Seminary at Troy in 1824 to complete her education. She died 
August 27, 1875. Margaret Miller was a very prolific writer; her 
poetical writings, which have been collected, amount to two hundred 
and seventj'-eight pieces. Her poems were introduced to the public 
under the kind auspices of Washington Irving. They were first pub- 
lished in 1828, with a memoir by Prof. Samuel F. B. Morse. They 
were noticed in a highly laudator}' manner by Southey, the British poet. 



554 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

A. R. McNAIR. 

Lieut. Comm.^nder Antoine de Reilhe McNair, U. S. Navy, was 
born in the city of New Orleans, La., September 15, 1839. He was 
appointed acting midshipman to the United States Naval Academy at 
Annapolis, September 22, 1856, from the First Congressional District of 
Missouri, and was graduated therefrom in the class of 1860. He served 
on the sloop of war " Preble " in 1857, and the " Plymouth " in 1859, 
and on June 15, 1860, was graduated and promoted to midshipman. 
The subject of this sketch is one of the Southern born officers of the 
Navy who stood true to his oath of allegiance to the United States in 
1861. His older brother, Fred. A. C. McNair and himself, turned their 
backs on kith and kin and all worldly possessions, and drew their swords 
in defense of the right. Fred. A. C. McNair sealed his devotion to the 
old flag with his life. Mr. McNair was on the sloop of war " Seminole " 
from June, 1860, to July, 1862, and during that time saw service along the 
coast of Brazil and other parts of South America ; was on blockade duty 
off Charleston, S. C. ; on the Potomac river, attacking the Confederate 
batteries at Freestone Point, Va., and Evansport, Va. ; participated in 
the battle of Port Royal, S. C. ; had boat service in the sounds of Georgia 
and South Carolina; was at the cutting oft" of Fort Pulaski, Ga., and 
the attack on "Thunderbolt Battery," Skiddaway Island, Ga. ; was in 
Hampton Roads against the " Merrimac " and participated in the cap- 
ture of Norfolk and the destruction of the "Merrimac." In August, 
1861, he was promoted to the grade of master for faithful services in 
battle, and in July, 1862, was promoted to lieutenant for "gallant and 
meritorious" services at Port Royal, Fort Pulaski, the capture of Nor- 
folk and destruction of the " Merrimac," and served on the steam frigate 
"Powhatan "from July, 1862, to June, 1804. From July, 1862, till April, 
1863, he was engaged in general service at the front and participated in 
the attacks on Fort Sumter and Charleston in April, 1863. In July, 
1863, he was wounded at the capture of Morris Island, S. C. , batteries, 
and in September, 1803, was at the attacks on Charleston made by Ad- 
mirals Du Pont and Dahlgren. From October, 1803, to June, 1804, he was 
serving in the West Indies, convoying mail steamers and searching for 
the " Florida " and "Alabama, "in command of the U. S. S. "Gemsbok." 
He was at the attack on Fort Fisher, entrance to the Cape Fear River, 
N. C, in December, 1864, and at its capture, in January, 1865, on board 
the U. S. frigate " New Ironsides." In February and March, 1865, he 





l).S.'VVx.CM. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 555 

was in front of the Confederate rams in James river; was present at the 
grand smash up in front of Richmond, Va., April, 18G5. In July, 1860, 
he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-commander for "gallant and 
meritorious" services in the late war, and during 186G-67 was naval in- 
structor at theU. vS. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Md. He served on 
different commands from 18f)7 to October, 1872, when he was retired, 
owing to an injury received in the line of duty in the West Indies. De- 
cember 13, 1871, Commander McNair married Frances Clarke, daughter 
of Benedict Clarke and Maria Brattle Clarke of Saratoga Springs, and 
they had three children: Frederick Park McNair, private and corporal 
in the Second N. Y.Vols., on duty in the Spanish -American war, Jessie 
McNair, and Alexander McNair, who was killed by an accident in his 
fifth year. Frederick Park McNair was promoted second lieutenant Two 
Hundred and Second N. Y. Infantry Vols., September 39, 1898, and died 
October 18, 1898, at Saratoga Springs, N. Y., from pernicious malarial 
fever contracted in camp at Tampa, Florida, in his twenty-fifth year. 
Commander McNair is a son of Antoinede Reilhe and Elvina (Johnson) 
McNair. For five generations, members of this historic family have 
served in the uniform of the United States, and Commander McNair is 
justly included in the list of this country's most faithful defenders. 



LIEUT. FREDERICK P. McNAIR. 

The name McNair is one of the honorable ones which adorns the his- 
tory of our country; and the subject of this sketch, although his life 
was short, did honor to that name; upholding all the patriotic and 
soldierly qualities of his race; finally losing his life for his country. 

"The shortest life is longest, if 'tis best; 
'Tis ours to work — to God belongs the rest. 
Our lives are measured by the deeds we do, 
The thoughts we think, the objects we pursue. 
A fair young life poured out upon the sod 
In the high cause of freedom and of God. 
Though all too short his course and quickly run, 
Is full and glorious as the orbed sun ; 
While he who lives to hoary-headed age 

Oft dies an infant — dies and leaves no sign. 
For he has writ no deed on history's page. 

And unfulfilled is being's great design." 



556 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Frederick P. McNair was born October 27, 1873, at Saratoga Springs, 
N. Y., and was educated at private schools and the Saratoga High 
School, from the academic department of which he was graduated in 
the class of 1892. His standing in the academy is well indicated by 
the fact that he was president of his class. Subsequently an opportu- 
nity offered to take a course at West Point, and he entered a competitive 
examination at Johnstown, Fulton county, N. Y. , for the position. 
There were twenty-two candidates for the appointment, and as only 
one could receive it. General Curtis, the member of congress, decided 
upon this method (competitive examination) of selecting the fittest. 
Mr. McNair proved himself easily the best and received the appoint- 
ment. 

He thereupon entered West Point, class of 1S98, and commenced his 
military studies, which he continued for two years, when he was attacked 
with tonsilitis, from which he had previously suffered, and on account 
of his sickness losing much time and advantageous study, he resigned. 
His record as a soldier at West Point was high and his deportment un- 
impeachable. 

Returning to Saratoga Springs he took up the study of law, first in 
the office of Hon. J. W. Houghton, Saratoga County Judge, and after- 
ward with A. W. Shepherd, esq. In the fall of 1897 he received the 
offer of a very lucrative position as secretary of a fruit company in the 
Ozark country, Missouri, and on February 14, 1898, he went west to 
enter upon the performance of his duties there. 

This position he was filling with ability, and satisfaction to his em- 
ployers, when the war with Spain broke out in the spring of 1 898. He 
had been a member of the " Saratoga Citizens Corps" (officially known 
as the 32d Separate Company, N. G. N. Y.) for over six years and 
was a corporal in that body at the time he went west; and although his 
removal from the State severed his connection with this company, no 
sooner was war declared than he was filled with patriotic ardor and an 
irresistible desire to join his old comrades and accompany them to the 
front. He waited for one thing only — -his father's consent and approval 
— which was quickly obtained. 

He came at once to Saratoga Springs and enlisted as a private, ask- 
ing neither for rank or favor, although his long service with the corps 
and his military training at West Point, to say nothing of his splendid 
act of patriotism in abandoning a fine position for his country's cause, 
warranted his asking a commission. He oft'ered his services with a 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 557 

patriotic heart, making no stipulation as to the capacity in which he 
went. He had charge of the recruits from Saratoga to Camp Black who 
were required to fill the places of those rejected by the examiners, and 
turning them over to the command, fell into his place in the ranks with 
his ever smiling face and readiness to perform every duty imposed 
upon him. 

He was with Company L, Second Regiment, New York Volunteers, 
at Camp Black, N. Y. , Chickamauga Park, Ga. , Tampa, Fla., Fernan- 
dina, Fla., and Camp Hardin, N.Y. Throughout all the hardships, pri- 
vations, disease and death of those camps, the horrors of which have 
stirred the country more even than the suffering and death of the 
battle field, he was ever the patient, willing, uncomplaining soldier; 
bright and cheery; strict in the performance of every duty. The ills 
of others touched him more than his own. His sympathy was con- 
stantly with the sick and ailing; he would give them his delicacies when 
he had any; he would lighten their work by assisting them. One of his 
characteristic acts, just before he was prostrated by what proved to be 
his last illness, was to wrap in his own coat and bear to a place of safety 
a comrade whom he found chilled and in a state of collapse from fever. 
The delicacies sent to him he distributed among the weak and sick, — 
saying when remonstrated with for being careless of his own health : 
"Oh, I'm strong, and can rough it." Through all he manifested that 
spirit which made the name of Sir Philip Sidney sublime when he 
turned the cup of water from his own dying lips to those of a wounded 
soldier. 

When made a corporal at Tampa he still shared the work of his squad 
and encouraged them by his example with axe, pick, shovel or rifie. 
His fidelity to duty and his burning patriotism were unconsciously ex- 
pressed by himself when he was sick at Tampa, and his father wrote 
to him to come home and recuperate. His reply was, "No one can tell 
how soon the thin blue fighting line in Cuba may need support, and it 
would have a bad effect if such as I — a trained soldier, should leave 
this Army of Reserve, when to-morrow the country may need me. No, 
please God, I will stay, for I am strong and accustomed to roughing it. 
If any go home let it be the young boj^s and feeble men; but as for we, 
my place is here, and here I must remain, so long as there is any possi- 
bility of my services being needed." 

Many will recall his tall soldierly figure that beautiful autumn after- 
noon when "Our Boys" came marching home from the war in the 



558 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

pride of their young manhood, as they swept through the principal 
street of the village on the way from the train to their Armory. Many 
will miss his always genial greeting, sympathetic and kindly for each 
one, old or young, of high or of low estate. 

On September 29, 1898, he was commissioned second lieutenant in 
the 203d Regiment. N. Y. Infantry Vols., stationed at Camp Meade, 
Middletown, Pa. But the malarial poison under which for weeks he 
had stood up, reasserted itself in virulent form, and after three weeks 
of sickness this splendid soldier laid down his nobly acquired sword. 

He died October 18, 1898, and was buried with military honors; be- 
sides which the citizens of Saratoga Springs came out in such numbers 
to pay their last tribute to his worth, that it is doubtful if a greater 
concourse ever accompanied any member of the community to his last 
resting place. 

In the last eight years of his short life Frederick P. McNair was 
connected with military organizations; in the cause of his country he 
gave up his life; so as a soldier he will live in history. In searching 
among his papers after his death, the following motto was found, many 
times repeated in English and Latin — " Not self, but country." " Non 
sibi, sed Patriae." He seems to have adopted this as his rule of action 
in life as in death. 

His epitaph is, " He did his duty." No greater honor can be paid 
to any man than this. 



MICHAEL P. SNYDER. 

Michael P. Snyder was born in Narrowsburgh, Sullivan county, N. 
Y., April 13, 1857, educated in the public schools and has been a devoted 
railroad man for the past twenty- five years. He began as telegraph oper- 
ator in the employ of the Lake Erie Railroad Company, and in 1883 came 
to Mechanicville and entered the employ of the B., H. T. & W. Railroad 
Co. as night train dispatcher (after absorbing the Troy & Boston Rail- 
road, it is now known as the Fitchburg Railroad Co.), and in 1890 was 
made train master. In 1893 he was promoted to the position of super- 
intendent of the western division of the railroad, succeeding Joseph 
Crandall. Through sobriety, industry and integrity, he attained this 
position, which he has filled with satisfaction to the company and with 
credit to himself. 




MICJHAtl. P. SNYDER. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 559 

October 15, 1881, Mr. vSnyder married Frances E. Town.send of Car- 
bondale, Pa., and they had ten children, four now living: William R. , 
Fredericka M., Albertina J., and Marion P. Wilhelmina died in her 
eleventh year; Bessie F., died in her seventh year; Irene died in her 
second year; Frances died in her second year; and two infants not 
named. 

Mr. Snyder's father, Jacob Snyder, was born in Germany and came 
to the United States when a young man, locating in Sullivan county, 
N. Y. He married Wilhelmina Lachebmeyer, and they had ten children : 
Michael P. (as above), Pauline, Katharine, Margaret, Fredericka, 
Louise, Louis, George, William and Paul. Mr. Snyder died in 1884; 
his widow survives at this date, 1898, on the old homestead in Sullivan 
county. 

Michael P. Snyder is a member of On-da wa Lodge of Mechanicville, 
N. Y., No. 830, F. & A. M. ; of Montgomery Chapter of Stillwater, 
No. 357, R. A. M. ; of Bloss Council of Troy, N. Y., No. 14, R. & S. M. ; 
of Apollo Commandery of Troy, No. 15, K. T. ; Delta Lodge of Per- 
fection, A. A. Rite, of Albany Sovereign Consistory of Albany, S. P. 
R. S., of Oriental Temple, and A. A. O. N. M. S. Mr. and Mrs. 
Snyder are active members of the Royal Chapter of Mechanicville, 
O. E. S. 



RANSOM SUTFIN. 

Ransom Sutfin, the head of the Sutfin family of Schuylerville, was 
a native of Northumberland township, and was born April 13, 1812. 
His early life was one of hardship and toil engendered by the care of a 
large family. He was imbued with that spirit of honesty which re- 
stricts one's possessions to that which is honestly obtained, preferring 
poverty to the acquirement of property possessed by dishonest meth- 
ods. After his removal to Schuylerville he was for many years en- 
gaged in the coal business and died there April IIJ, 1889. His wife, 
Nancy McEchron Sutfin, was a native of Hebron, Washington county, 
and was born on the 28th day of February, 1820, and died in Schuyler- 
ville, March 5, 1897. With her estimable husband she was a member 
of the Refomed church of Schuylerville, and is buried by his side in the 
Prospect Hill Cemetery. Deacon Sutfin and his wife were known as 
among the good people of the village, and when called to their reward 



560 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

left names unblemished, and lives untarnished, a perpetual mentor to 
their surviving children and the community wherein they had spent so 
many years of their lives. 

Of their six children, George was the oldest, having been born Jan- 
uary 2, 1840. He was a soldier in the late war and served in the 
Forty-fourth New York Volunteers, and was killed May 10, 18(54, at 
the battle of Spottsylvania Court House, Va. ; Margaret, the second 
child, was born March 16, 1843, and died August 27, 1848; John, born 
June 23, 1845, died July 19, 1847; Lucy, born July 26, 1848, died Feb- 
ruary 13, 1873; and David, born September 4, 1854, who with his sis- 
ter, Julia, are the sole survivors. 

Julia was born in Schuylerville and has always resided there. Her 
maternal grandfather, David McEchron, was a soldier in the war of 
1812 and saw service against the British during those stirring times 
when Saratoga county was a stamping ground for the British and In- 
dians, Miss Sutfin enjoys the confidence and esteem of a wide circle 
of friends and acquaintances ; is a member of the Reformed church and 
is active in Christian work. 



WILLIAM W. WORDEN. 

William W. Worden is a native of Saratoga county who has been 
prominently connected with both county and village for over a third of 
a century. He .served in the war of the Rebellion with the celebrated 
Seventy-seventh New York Volunteers, rising from a private to the rank 
of lieutenant. He was wounded three times at the respective battles 
of the Wilderness, Winchester and Cedar Creek. 

After the war closed Mr. Worden located in Saratoga Springs and 
engaged in the lumber business, to which he added a planing mill, 
an enterprise which he conducted for several years, furnishing the sash, 
doors, blinds, etc., for nearly all the great hotels of Saratoga. 

In 1883 his planing mill was burned and in 1885 he opened the Wor- 
den hotel, which he still conducts and which is known all over this 
country as a hostelry of high rank. 

Mr. Worden has been a staunch Republican and is a valued man in 
his party. He is almost invariably a delegate to the State conventions; 
was a presidential elector on the Garfield ticket in 1880, and delegate 
to the National Convention at St. Louis, Mo., which nominated Presi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 5(U 

dent McKinley in 189(3. At the Republican State Convention at Sara- 
toga Springs in September, 1898, he was made vState committeeman. 
In ISOl Mr. Worden was elected sheriff on the Republican ticket and 
during the three years of his office proved himself an able and energetic 
official. 

Mr. Worden is a prominent Mason, being a member of the Blue 
Lodge, Chapter, Commandery and Oriental Temple. 



CHARLES SMITH LESTER. 

Charles Smith Lester, the son of Charles Gove Lester and Susan 
Wells Smith, his wife, was born at Worcester, Mass., on the loth day 
of March, 18-24. He is a descendant of Andrew Lester, who came to 
this country about the year IG-tO from England and in 1G51 settled in 
New London, Conn. Simeon Lester, his grandfather, was born in 
Connecticut and there married Sally Gove, daughter of Nathaniel Gove, 
who was a lieutenant in the Seventeenth Continental Regiment during 
the Revolution and who marched under Washington, was engaged in 
the battle of Long Island, taken prisoner and confined on a prison ship 
in the Hudson where he imbibed the seeds of incurable disease. Sim- 
eon Lester and his wife emigrated to Vermont, where his son, Charles 
Gove, was born. Charles Gove Lester was reared in the State of Ver- 
mont and was a graduate of Vermont University. He subsequently 
became a leading merchant in Montreal, but the business failures that 
followed the war of 1812 swept away the capital of the firm to which 
he belonged and overwhelmed him with reverses, from which he never 
recovered. 

The subject of this sketch was left at an early age to the care of his 
motlier, through whom he is related to some of the best New l'>ngland 
families. He was educated at the Washington Academy in Salem, N. 
Y. In September, 1841, he entered the law office of Crary & Fairchild 
at that place as a clerk, and removed to Saratoga Springs in October, 
1843, continuing his studies in the office of his uncle, John Willard, 
then Circuit Judge and Vice Chancellor of the Fourth Circuit. On his 
twenty-first birthday he was admitted as solicitor and counsellor in 
Chancer)' by the late Chancellor Walworth, and in May following was 
admitted as attorney of the Supreme Court. He first formed a law 
partnership with William Cullen Bockes, a talented and eloquent law- 

36 



563 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

yer and tlie youngest brother of Hon. Augustus Bockes, for many years 
one of the Justices of the Supreme Court of the State of New York. 
This partnership was dissolved a few months later by the death of Mr. 
Bockes. 

In 1849 he was married to Lucy L. Cooke, daughter of Timothy 
Cooke of Milford, N. Y. Her grandfather, James Westcott, was a sol- 
dier in the Revolution and was present at the execution of Andre, the 
sorrowful incidents of which tragedy he was wont to recount to his 
grandchildren. Mrs. Lester inherited, in a remarkable degree, from 
her father, who was a soldier of the war of 1812, a calm kindliness of 
demeanor coupled with inflexible integrity of character. Of this mar- 
riage four children were born, all of whom survive. Charles Cooke 
Lester, Willard Lester and James Westcott Lester, the sons, having 
studied law in their father's office and been admitted to the bar, 
have ever since been connected with him as partners in the practice of 
their profession. Susan Lester, the only daughter, is now the wife of 
Bernadotte Perrin, professor of the Greek language and literature in 
Yale University. 

In 1859 Charles S. Lester was elected district attorney on the Dem- 
ocratic ticket by a considerable majority, although his party was then 
in a political minority in Saratoga county. In the presidential campaign 
of 1860 he was an admirer and supporter of Stephen A. Douglass ; but 
upon the breaking out of the Rebellion, in common with thousands of 
like political faith, he cast in his lot with those who desired the main- 
tenance of the Union, and has ever since been thoroughly identified 
with the Republican party. Incapacitated by a serious defect of vis- 
ion for services in the field he assisted in the labors which devolved 
upon those who remained at home. He refused, when supervisor, in 
spite of threats of personal violence, to pay the extravagant bounties 
which the excited taxpayers of his town thought necessary to avert a 
draft; and finally, with great effort and at no small personal risk, filled 
its quota, thus effecting a saving to his town of many thousand dollars. 
In 1870 he was elected County Judge and filled the office for six years 
with credit to himself and satisfaction to the public. In 1875 he was 
named by his political friends as the candidate of the Republican party 
for Justice of the Supreme Court, and, after the most hotly contested 
and exciting nominating convention ever known in his judicial district, 
was defeated by a single vote. 

Judge Lester has enjoyed a large and varied practice. The law firm 



BIOGRAPHICAL. oG3 

composed of himself and his three sons, is one of the oldest in Northern 
New York. Judge Lester's fidelity and devotion to his clients has made 
him a popular and trusted, as well as a successful advocate. He has 
found leisure, amidst the cares of an engrossing profession, to perform 
the duties incident to such public offices of trust and honor as super- 
visor of the town, president of the village and president of the Board of 
Education of Saratoga Springs. He has traveled extensively, both in 
this country and in Europe. He has not neglected general literature. 
He is a direct and forcible speaker; and many addresses delivered by 
him on occasions of historical interest, have been published. In 1854 
the corporation of Yale College conferred upon him the honorary de- 
gree of A. M. He has bqen for many years a member of the First 
Presbyterian church of Saratoga Springs and for nearly half a century 
one of its trustees. 

At the date of this sketch. Judge Lester, now seventy-five years of 
age, is still engaged in the active practice of his profession and has 
been, for a number of years, the oldest practicing lawyer in Saratoga 
county. 



CHARLES COOKE LESTER. 

Charles Cooke Lester, of the law firm of C. S. & C. C. Lester, was 
born June 27, 1850, a son of Hon. Charles S. and Lucy L. (Cooke) 
Lester. He was educated at Union College, from which he took the 
A. B. degree in 1870, the youngest member of his class. He read law 
in his father's office; was admitted as an attorney in 1873, and at this 
time entered into the partnership with his father, which has since con- 
tinued. This firm has probably the largest general practice in Sara- 
toga county and numbers among its clients the owners or representa- 
tives of many large estates. 

In 18'.)4, Charles C. Lester was elected a delegate to the Constitu- 
tional Convention for this Senatorial District, and took a prominent 
part in its proceedings. Mr. Lester has been one of the trustees of the 
Albany Law .School for a number of years, and for four years an alumni 
trustee of Union College. He has been a member of the New York 
State Bar Association since about the time of its organization. 

He married, in 1874, Catharine Perrin, daughter of Rev. Lavalette 
Perrin, D.D., of Torrington, Conn., who died in 1886. In 1889 he 



564 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

married Mary Lane Tuck, a \'irginian by birth and daughter of George 
O. and Sarah F. (Strachan) Tuck. Of this union arc two sons: Charles 
Tuck and Bernadotte Perrin. 



C. S. CLOSSON. 

C. S. Closson, was born in Greenwich, N. Y., July 4, 1859. His 
advantages for schooling were limited and came from that most im- 
portant educational factor, the common schools. The family removed 
to Schuylerville, when Mr. Closson was nine years old, and while he 
assisted his father, James Closson, who was a carpenter, found employ- 
ment in the mills at Victory and continued there for upwards of twenty 
years. He was for. some time employed by the Walter A. Wood Har- 
vester Co. of Hoosick Falls and later as foreman of a cotton mill at Nor- 
wich, Conn., after which worked as a machinist for N. F. & John Barry 
in Rockford City, 111., for about two years. In August, 1888, Mr. 
Closson was elected one of the trustees of the Saratoga Monument 
Association, and when the monument was struck by lightning in 1887, 
and again in 1890, he received the contract for repairing the same, 
which was executed in a most satisfactory manner; subsequently he 
was instructed to put in the bas reliefs and to place in the niches the 
statuary of the generals of the Revolutionary war, viz., Gates, Schuyler 
and Morgan, and the terra cotta work surmounting the same. 

Seven years ago Mr. Closson established himself in business in the 
line of upholstering and undertaking and in the latter enjoys a wide 
field of patronage. Besides his natural abilities to engage in a business 
demanding peculiar fitness, naturally, as well as thorough equipment 
with which to take charge of and conduct in the most becoming man- 
ner the care of those deceased, he is a thorough and skillful embalmer, 
and is a graduate of the United States College of Embalming at New 
York. He keeps three hearses and can at all times furnish an outlit 
equal to that of large cities. Mr. Closson enjoys a large trade in fur- 
niture and upholstering, and has lately added a bicycle shop where he 
does general repairs to bicycles, &c. 

In 1878 Mr. Closson married Anna, daughter of William P. Ostrander 
of Schuylerville, and they had four children, two now living: Daisy 
and Orley, both residing at home. In politics Mr. Closson is a Repub- 
lican and has been poormaster of the town of Saratoga, having been 




C. S. CLOSSON. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 505 

elected in 1895 for three years. He is a member of Schuyler Lodge 
No. 67G, F. & A. M., Rising Sun Chapter No. 131, R. A. M., Crystal 
Council No. 37, R. & S. M., and Washington Commandery No. 33 of 
Saratoga Springs, and the Knights of the Mystic Shrine of Troy. 



DR. JOHN K. ANDERSON. 

Dr. Joun K. Anderson was born in Edinburgh, Saratoga county, 
April 19, 1818. For several years he engaged in school teaching in 
Saratoga county, Greenbush, Rensselaer county, Amsterdam, N. Y., 
and elsewhere, for eleven years occupying the position of principal of 
a graded school at Amsterdam. Having fitted himself for the medical 
profession, he finally became a homoeopathic practitioner, following 
that profession successfully for many years in Saratoga and Schoharie 
counties. While a resident of Saratoga county he served as justice of 
the peace in Edinburgh eight years, beginning with 1818, and in 1851 
represented that town on the board of supervisors. 

Dr. Anderson's maternal grandfather and great-grandfather both 
served in the patriot army in the Revolutionary war. His great-grand- 
father, John Kennelly, was taken prisoner by a band of Indian maraud- 
ers on their way from Johnstown, N. Y., to Canada, in 1775. He lived 
near what is now Vail's Mills, Fulton county, N. Y. At the end of the 
third day of his captivity he escaped from them, returned home, took 
his family at once to an American fort; then took his son, John Ken- 
nelly, jr., only eight years old, and started for the American camp, 
where he enlisted and got his son accepted as a drummer. John Ken- 
nelly, sr., was killed in battle. John Kennelly, jr.. Dr. Anderson's 
grandfather, served as a drummer through the entire eight years of the 
war, taking part in many battles. He is reputed to have been the 
youngest person serving in the American army during that struggle. 
Probably no one so young, beside him, was ever enlisted into the ser- 
vice of the United States, was honorably discharged and received a 
pension for life. 

November 13, 1815, Dr. Anderson married Catharine Shew, daughter 
of Col. Lodewick P. Shew of Providence, Saratoga count)'. Her grand- 
father, Capt. Jacob Shew, served in the Revolutionary war. He at 
one time had the queue shot from his head, but was not aware of the 
fact until after the end of the engagement. He was carried into cap- 



566 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PKOPI.E. 

livity to yuebec. His brother, Capt. John .Shew, was killed by the In- 
dians and tories during one of their raids on the Ballston settlement. 
He resided in Milton. Col, Lodewick P. Shew, Mrs. Anderson's 
father, was commissioned colonel of the Saratoga county regiment of 
militia March 10, 1832. His brother, Col. John P. Shew, was also for 
many years in command of a New York regiment. 

Dr. Anderson and his wife had si.x children — Abbie Pamelia, wife of 
Thomas M. Billington of Amsterdam, N Y. ; Mary Matilda, wife of 
Deodatus W. Sturtevant of Amsterdam ; Clara Louise, wife of Rev. E. 
Irving Rackette of East Orleans, Mass. ; Kate Kirkwood, wife of Frank- 
lin P. Wemple of Fultonville, N. Y., now of Schenectady; Stephen 
Putnam, formerly city editor of the Saratogian, of .Saratoga Springs; 
and George Baker Anderson of Ballston Spa, N. Y. Those living are 
Mrs. Rackette, Mrs. Wemple and George B. Anderson. 

November 12, 1895, Dr. and Mrs. Anderson celebrated their golden 
wedding at Schenectady, N. Y. Both are still living — the former at 
the age of over eighty-one and the latter at the age of seventy-five 
years. 



REV. JOSEPH CAREY, S.T.D. 

Rev. Joseph Carey, S.T.D. , rector of Bethesda Episcopal Church 
of Saratoga, was born in New York city, December 23, 1839, being 
the second son of Robert and Ellen (Gordon) Carey. He was pre- 
pared for college in Newburgh Academy, and in 1859 entered St. Ste- 
phen's College at Annandale, Dutchess county, where he was grad- 
uated with high honor with the class of 18U1. This college, it will be 
remembered, was founded by Bishop Horatio Potter of New York, who 
was Dr. Carey's spiritual adviser. In 18G1, after his graduation. Dr. 
Carey entered the General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal 
Church, in New York city, where he remained for three years, and be- 
came one of the most proficient Hebrew scholars in his class, being 
nominated to succeed Dr. George H. Houghton as professor of Hebrew. 

On July 3, 1864, he was ordained a deacon in Calvary Church, New 
York, by Bishop Potter, and after three months' service with the pres- 
ent Bishop Seymour of Springfield, then rector of St. John's Church, 
Brooklyn, he became, in October, 1864, rector of Grace Church, Wa- 
terford, where he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Potter, 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 507 

February 23, 1865. The church at Waterford was greatly strengthened 
during his rectorship, and he also helped to maintain a mission in the 
village of Crescent. At the end of four years of zealous work he accept- 
ed a call from Christ church, Ballston Spa, N. Y., and in October, 18G8, 
succeeded Rev. Dr. George Worthington, present bishop of Nebraska, 
as pastor of that parish. Here he exhibited the same energy that had 
characterized his work at Waterford, and under his charge the parish 
grew rapidly. He was instrumental in securing the old armory for 
church purposes, and carried on a successful mission a few miles west 
of the village, besides giving occasional services at Factory \'illage and 
in the Cullen district. 

After five years of labor at Christ Church Dr. Carey accepted a call 
to the church of his present charge. His rectorship dates from Advent 
Sunday, November 30, 1873. He has repeatedly declined calls from 
prominent parishes from love of his flock, and his labors have been 
highly appreciated. During the summer season his church is largely 
attended by the prominent church people of the land, many of whom 
have shown a deep interest in his labors. 

As a preacher he has a masterly style, his chief charm being a ready 
flow of language. He may be considered a conservative high church- 
man, and while holding fast to the great Catholic truths, is sympathetic 
— broadly so — with all. He is an indefatigable worker, has a pleas- 
ant word for every one, and when needed, visits the sick and afflicted, 
no matter what their condition in life. 

He is a trustee of St. Stephen's College, represents the diocese at 
Albany, as diocesan trustee of the General Theological Seminary, and 
is archdeacon of the Archdeaconry of Troy, and the trusted friend and 
assistant of the Rt. Rev. Dr. Doane, bishop of Albany. He was a 
delegate to the General Convention in 1880 at Chicago, and in 1889 at 
New York, where he was appointed as one of the five delegates to rep- 
resent the Church in the United States in the Provincial Synod of Can- 
ada of that year. In 1892 he was a deputy to the Baltimore General 
Convention, where he was put on the joint commission of five bishops 
and five presbyters that was appointed on the " Marginal Readings of 
the Bible." He was also a deputy to the Convention of 1895, in Minne- 
apolis, Minn., and to that of 1898 in Washington, D. C. 

Dr. Carey received his degree of M.A. from St. .Stephen's College, 
which, in 1878, in recognition of his ability, learning and valuable 
services in the ministry, conferred the degree of D. D. upon him. He 



568 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PROPLK. 

is a linguist of much ability ; a proficient Hebrew scholar ; and has 
given to the press essays and sermons which have brought him before 
the public as a literary scholar of note. His essay, "The Hebrew 
Names of God," and his sermons, " The True Knight," " Two Mas- 
ters," and the " Death of Garfield," have been justly called masterly 
efforts. 

Dr. Carey has ti-ansformed Rethesda church into one of the hand- 
somest and most completely furnished churches in the State of New 
York. He conducts weekly mission services at the mission chapel on 
Catherine street; the Home of the Good Shepherd on State street ; 
and the parish house on Washington street. 

In politics he is non-partisan. He is a Knight Templar Free Mason, 
chaplain of the Citizens' Corps, and holds other positions of honor. 

October 3, 1865, he married Catharine North Guion, only daughter 
of the late Rev. Thomas Tompkins Guion, D.D., rector of St. John's 
Church, Brooklyn. Of this union are one son and five daughters: 
Catharine Guion, Ellen vSeymour, who died in November, 1897, Mrs. 
Cornelia Enos Brunette (married in 1805), Mary Alice, Edith Ellison 
and Joseph Gordon Carey. 



CLIFFORD E. CADY. 

Clifford E. Cadv was born at Porter's Corners in the town of Green- 
field, May 18, 1858, a son of Luther and grandson of Benjamin Cady, 
an early settler of Greenfield. The wife of Luther Cady was Margaret 
Leggett, a native of Schenectady, and daughter of John Leggett, who 
emigrated from England about 1837 to Schenectady, and to Greenfield 
in 1847, where he died about 1882. Luther Cady was a carpenter by 
trade and is now superintendent of the John Leggett & Sons straw 
board mills at Middlegrove. 

Clifford E. Cady was educated in Greenfield and began life as a clerk 
in the old union store at Porter's Corners, first under his father, who 
was manager, and later succeeded to that position In 1894 he began 
his present business at Middlegrove, buying the stock of M. D. Rowell. 
He now has the leading store in his place. In politics he is a Repub- 
lican, and held the office of supervisor of the town of Greenfield for 
four years. He was appointed postmaster in 1898 by President Mc- 
Kinley. Mr. Cady is a member of St. John's Lodge No. 22, F. & A. 



BIOCKAPHICAL. 569 

M., St. John's Chapter No. 103, R. A. M. of Greenfield, and Middle- 
grove Lodge No. 170, I. O. O. F. 

In 1880 he married Emma Allcott, daughter of Stephen Allcott, of 
I'orter's Corners. Their children are four: Egbert A., May L., Una 
B., and Harold. 



JOHN W. CRANE. 

Hon. John W. Crane, ex-county judge of Saratoga county, was born 
in the town of Milton, September 30, 1827, a son of Justis and Betsey 
(Bridges) Crane. The family is of English origin and its repre.sentatives 
were early settlers in New England. James Crane, grandfather of 
Judge Crane, was a veteran of the Revolutionary war and lived to the 
age of ninety years. His son, Justis Crane, was born in New Hamp- 
shire and in 1820 came to Saratoga county. For ten years he was en- 
gaged in farming in the town of Milton, and then moved to the village 
of Saratoga Springs, where he resided until his death, which occurred in 
18G0. He was a successful farmer and a Democrat of strong partisanship. 
He married Betsey Bridges, a native o( Boston, Mass., and of their 
union were two sons and one daughter. Mrs. Crane, who die.d in the 
eighty-fifth year of her age, October 20, 1884, was a daughter of Will- 
iam Bridges, who was of English descent and settled at Ballston Spa 
in 1810. 

Until he was si.\teen years old John W. Crane lived on the farm, and 
since then has resided in Saratoga Springs. He was well educated in 
the public schools and academies of this section, and in 1847 began the 
study of law in the office of Hon. William A. Beach, under whose ex- 
cellent instruction iie remained until his admission to the bar in 1852. 
In 1854 he became a member of the law firm of Avery, Hoag & Crane, 
which later became Hoag & Crane, and as such continued in successful 
practice until January 1, 1859, when Mr. Crane withdrew to take his 
seat as county judge. At the expiration of his term of four years he 
returned to private practice. From 1870 to 1880 he served a second 
term as county judge. 

Judge Crane is considered one of the best counsellors and conveyanc- 
ers in the county. He was admitted to practice in the United States 
Supreme Court in 18G1. In politics he has been a strong Democrat. 
He has held various town and village offices and served as supervisor 



5T0 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

in 1863, 1868 and 1869. Although twice in nomination for the county 
judgeship by the minority party, his popularity has been such that he 
has each time been elected b)' a good majoritj-. He retired from the 
bench with the respect and esteem of the bar and public. Judge Crane 
has contributed much to the prosperity of the village. He was a mem- 
ber of the board of commissioners which introduced the Holly system 
of water works; a building commissioner of the town hall, and chair- 
man of the building committee which erected the Convention Hall. 
He is a stockholder in the First National Bank, the United States Hotel, 
and Congress Spring Companies. 

He married, October i, 1852, Mar}- E. Martin, daughter of Daniel 
Martin of Granville, Washington county. Of this union is one son, 
George M. Crane. 



JAMES EARLEY. 

James Earlev was born in Saratoga county, January 21, 1841, a son 
of Elijah Earlev, who was a farmer and lived and died in Corinth. Mr. 
Earley was reared on a farm, educated in the common schools and fol- 
lowed farming for sonie years. He enlisted in the Civil war and at the 
close returned home and engaged in farming. He removed to the vil- 
lage of Corinth and had charge of the freight hauling for the Hudson 
River Pulp & Paper Co., and for some years looked after the buying 
of the the wood, also continued his farming Mr. Earley built a fine 
brick residence in Corinth in 1887 on Palmer avenue, and was connected 
with the mill for about thirty years, being a general favorite among 
the men. In politics he was a Republican and a member of the county 
committee for some years. Mr. Earley was twice married, first to 
Aurelia R White, who died leaving two daughters, Mrs. Dr. C. B. 
Mallery, and Mrs. Geo. W. Costello, both of whom are living; in 18S0 
Mr. Earley married Frances E. Haines, who was born in Saratoga county ; 
they had one son, Charles J. Mr. Earley died December 18, 1892. 



JAMES W. HORTON. 

James W. Horton, who served as clerk of Saratoga county for 
many years, was bom in Ballston, September 29, 1810, a son of Ezekiel 




JAMHS HAKLhY. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 571 

and Clarissa (Watson) Hortou. He was educated in the schools of the 
vicinity and took up his residence in the village of Ballston Spa when 
nineteen years of age. He served the village as postmaster during 
(General Harrison's administration. In 1845 he was elected clerk of 
Saratoga county (ju the Whig ticket and held the office for nearly half 
a century. In politics he was a Whig and Republican. 



MILES E(;nERT VARNEV, M. I). 

Miles E. Varni v, M.D. , was born in Lu/.erne, Warren county, N. V., 
January 14, ISo:], a son of Josiah S. and Abby j. (Murray) Varncy. 
The X'arneys were among the earliest settlers in the vicinity of the 
present village of (Slens Falls. Much genealogical data has been written 
regarding them, as they are of Sa.Kon origin and by tradition trace their 
ancestry to the time of the Con(|uer(Ji''s invasion of Britain. 

Dr. Varney's father resided all his life in this vicinity and was a 
man of excellent character and worth. For many years he followed 
his trade as ;i millwright and thus became well known throughout the 
entire region. Later he engaged in farming. In religious belief he 
was a Friend, having miited with the Orthodox Friends Society at an 
early age. It is a fact of historical imjiortance that he is credited with 
the introduction of singing in the order of worship of the Friends' 
meetings. He died in 1 8110, in the sixty-third year of his age. His 
father, Daniel Warren Varney, had gained considerable repute in this 
vicinity from the early stand he took as an advocate of the principles 
of the Abolitionists. 

Dr. Miles E. Varney began his education at tJie .Sandy Hill ITnidu 
School from whence he went to the Fort Edward Collegiate Institute, 
and later to the Oakwood Academy at Union Springs in Cayuga county, 
N. Y., where he completed the college preparatory course. He pre- 
pared for his profession in the medical department of the Lhiiversity 
of Vermont and during his entire course of four years taught in the 
common schools of the vicinity during the fall and winter terms. After 
taking his M.D. degree in June, 1889, he passed the examinations of 
the Regents of the University of the State of New York and was ad- 
mitted to practice in this State, locating first in South Glens Falls 
where he remained for a period of five years. In 18'J2 he was nom- 
inated by the Republican County Convention as coroner of Saratoga 



573 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLR. 

county and elected by a large majority, runnino; ahead of his ticket. 
He was re-elected in 1895 and during both terms served with credit, not 
only to himself but to his party. 

Dr. Varney began his present practice in .Saratoga Springs in 1894 
and is recognized as one of the most prominent of the younger prac- 
titioners of the village. He is a member of the American Medical As- 
sociation ; New York State Medical Association ; and the Saratoga 
Springs Medical Society. He has been officially connected with the 
Saratoga Hospital since its establishment, liaving been a member of 
each of its staffs. He is now a member of the maternity and surgical 
stall's and attending surgeon. He is also surgeon for the Delaware & 
Hudson Railroad Company, a member of the New York Mutual Aid 
Society and examining physician for several insurance companies, in- 
cluding the Metropolitan Life, PlKLui.x, ICqnitable Life, Netherlands, 
etc. 

Notwithstanding the demands of a good practice Dr. Varney has 
gained a wide fraternal connection. He is a prominent thirty-second 
degree Mason, holding membership in Rising Sun Lodge No. 103, F. & 
A. M.; Rising Sun Chapter No. 131, R.A.M.; Cryptic Council No. 37; 
Washington Commandery No. 33, Knights Templar; and Oriental 
Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, Troy, N. Y. He is one of the 
oldest members of the Improved Order of Red Men in this section of 
the State, being a charter member of the South (ilens Falls Tribe. He 
is also a prominent member of the Young Men's Christian Association. 

In January, 18S8, Dr. Varney married Sadie M. Austin, a daughter 
of Cassias Austin of Burlington, \'t. 



JOSEPH P. BRENNAN. 

JosF.i'H P. Brennan, son of Patrick and Catherine Brennan, was born 
at Saratoga Springs, N. Y., January 29, 1870. His father was a life- 
long resident of Saratoga Springs, and during his whole life took a deep 
interest in its welfare. He was a member of the board of trustees and 
of the board of education, and was prominent in politics in the earlier 
period of Saratoga's history. He died in 1S98. 

Joseph P. Brennan was educated in the public schools and the High 
school at Saratoga Springs, graduating from the latter in the class of 
1888, and carrying off the prize for oratory in tliat year. When a 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 573 

Student in the High school he evinced a marked aptitude for those 
studies best calculated to develop the logical forces of the mind, and 
after graduating, naturally turned toward the study of law. With this 
object in view he entered the office of Hon. John Foley, who was then 
State senator of the district, where he read for some time. He then 
entered Yale College and graduated from that institution with distinc- 
tion in the class of 1891, receiving the degree of LL.B. While in Yale 
College he attained the distinction of being elected to the Book and 
(iavel society and became one of its most prominent members. 

In the fall of 1891 Mr. Brennan was admitted to the bar and in the 
spring of 1893 he was nominated b}* the Democratic party for ju.stice of 
the peace. He was elected and began the duties of his office January 
1, 1893. 

Although he assumed the duties of this office when scarcely twenty- 
two years of age, he showed from the first that ability and fidelity which 
has placed him in the front rank of Saratoga's public men. The office 
of justice of the peace is an important one in Saratoga Springs, as the 
incumbent is, e.x officio, a member of the town auditing board, the work 
of which is important to taxpayers, and the conscientious regard which 
he constantly showed for the interests of the taxpayers were for him 
the strongest commendation. 

When the war broke out between the United States and vSpain in the 
spring of 1898 this young lawyer left his desk, books and the practice 
he had already acquired by hard work, zeal and ability, and volunteered 
as a private in the United States service. He left Saratoga Springs 
with Company L, 2d N. Y. Volunteers, May 2, for Camp Black, N. Y. ; 
thence to Chickamauga Park, Ga. ; then on to Tampa, Fla. While at 
Tampa, Fla., although a private, he was selected from his company to 
go north to Saratoga Springs after recruits. This service he executed 
with promptness and success and returned to his company at Tampa 
with twenty-eight recruits to fill the quota of his company. He vs'as 
soon after promoted to the rank of corporal, which position he filled 
with credit and honor as long as the regiment was in service. 

In the fever stricken camps of Florida this lawyer and soldier was 
attacked with malaria. At Camp Hardin, in Troy, N. Y., where his 
regiment was stationed preparatory to being mustered out, he succumbed 
and was taken to the hospital, from which he was discharged as con- 
valescent. On his arrival at Saratoga Springs with his company he 
was again taken down with fever and was confined to his bed with a 
more violent attack. 



574 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

While serving with his company at Fernandina, the Democratic party 
of Saratoga county, without his knowledge, honored him with the nom- 
ination for member of assembl3% and while the whole Republican ticket 
was elected in this county. Corporal Brennan ran over 1,000 votes 
ahead of his ticket, cutting the majority of the Republican assembly- 
man down to one-half of what the other candidates got. 

Mr. Brennan is a young man of fine presence and graceful manners; 
is thoroughly educated and has an excellent knowledge of the law. 
Bright, brainy and popular, he has before him a future of much prom- 
ise and great usefulness. 



JESSE S. L'AMOREAUX. 

Jesse S. L'Amoreaux, ex-county judge, was born in the town of Wil- 
ton, Saratoga county, December 11, 1837. His ancestors were Hugue- 
nots, who came from France about 1700 and settled in Dutchess county. 
He was reared in his native town and after attending the common schools 
entered Fort Edward Collegiate Institute, where he took a full course; 
subsequently he engaged in teaching in the towns of Wilson and vSchuy- 
Icrville. He began to read law in 1856 in the office of Lewis J. Wells 
of vSchuylerville, with whom he remained about two years. In 1858 he 
removed to Ballston Spa and in the following year formed a partner- 
ship with Mr. C. C. Hill, under the firm name of Hill & L'Amoreaux. 
This association terminated in February, 18GI, and he became a partner 
of Hon. George Chapman, afterward canal commissioner of the State 
of New York. He was admitted to the bar in May, 1861. In 1863 his 
professional connection with Mr. Chapman terminated and for several 
years thereafter he continued to practice alone. In 1867 he formed a 
partnership with A. C. Drake, a lawyer of ripe experience and fine 
ability, and eleven years later, in 1878, Seth Whalen was admitted to 
the firm, which, under the name of L'Amoreaux, Drake & Whalen, be- 
came one of the most prominent law firms of Saratoga county and east- 
ern New York. After a term of seven years the partnership was 
dissolved. 

In 1882 Mr. L'Amoreaux was nominated by the Republicans for the 
office of county judge, and his high standing as a lawyer and his great 
popularity with the people were such that he had no opposition at the 
polls. He was elected for a term of six years and occupied the bench 




JESSE S. L'AMOREAUX. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 575 

from January 1, 1883, to January 1, 1880, making a record as an able, 
rapid and fearless judge. 

In the past few years Judge L'Amoreaux has gained a wide reputa- 
tion as a corporation lawyer and has been largely retained by corpora- 
tions in New York and othei- States. As a criminal lawyer he has 
achieved marked success, although not making this branch of practice 
a specialty. He has been noted for his thorough mastery of and prep- 
aration for his cases, and during the past twenty years but few un- 
usually important suits have been tried in the county in which he has 
not been engaged. As a judge he presides with ease, urbanity and 
dignity. In politics he has been a prominent Republican and in 1887 
came within one vote of receiving the nomination for justice of the 
Supreme Court. In the Republican State Convention of the same year 
he was unanimously nominated for the office of comptroller of the 
State of New York, but was defeated at the November election with 
the rest of the ticket. 

Among his fellow citizens few men are so generally respected and 
esteemed as Judge L'Amoreaux, and in his business relations none are 
more valued for sagacity and probity. When the Fir.st National Bank 
of Ballston Spa was organized Mr. L'Amoreaux was chosen as its at- 
torney; soon after he was named a director and as such has ever since 
served. In 1880 he succeeded Hon. George West as vice-president. 
He is a financier of large foresight and careful, conservative method. 
For many years he has been an official member of the First Presbyter- 
ian church of Ballston Spa. 

He married, June 8, 1865, Miss Ellen Holbrook. 



WARREN CURTIS. 

Warren Ciriis was born in Passaic, N. J., October 19, 18:57, a son 
of Warren Curtis, an extensive pa]ier manufacturer of that place. Mr. 
Curtis was educated at Newark, N. J., and took a course in civil engi- 
neering at Delaware College, when a young man, and went west 
and was engaged in the paper manufacture, also surveying. In May, 
1871, he came to Corinth and took charge of the Hudson River Pulp & 
Paper Co., as general manager and has since held that office, also for 
the past twelve years has been treasurer as well as general manager of 
the company. On the organization of the International Paper Co., Mr. 



57C OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Curtis was elected a director and manager of the department of con- 
struction and maintenance of that companj'. 

Politically Mr. Curtis is independent ; he served two terms on the board 
of supervisors of Saratoga county, and was the first president of the union 
school board; also the first president of the village of Corinth; he was 
supervisor two terms and was once nominated by the Democratic party 
for Congress, but the district being largely Republican, he was defeated. 

Mr. Curtis married Miss M. A. Parmenter, and five children have 
been born to them: Warren, jr., a graduate of the Polytechnic Insti- 
tute of Troy, is now serving his second term as president of the village 
and is civil engineer for the Hudson River Pulp & Paper Company; 
Allen, a student at Cornell; Harry, Carita and Marguerite. 



REV. EDWARD M. BRADY. 

Rev. Ed\v.\rd M. Bradv was born in Troy, N. Y., March 1, ISOO, 
educated in the public schools of Troy, and when fourteen years of age 
entered Troy Academy, which was founded about 182.3. The principal 
of the school in 187-1- was Mr. Wilson, who had charge of the institution 
for many years. Mr. Brady was graduated from the academy on July 
1, 1877, and in the autumn of the same year entered Holy Cross Col- 
lege, Worcester, Mass., from which he was graduated on June 24, 1880, 
receiving the degree of Bachelor of Arts. September 9, 1880, he 
entered St. Joseph's Seminary, Troy, N. Y., where he was ordained 
priest December 21, 1884, by Rt. Rev. Bishop Bradley, first bishop of 
Manchester, N. H. 

After his ordination he was sent by Bishop McNeirney to act as pas- 
tor of the Catholic church at New Lebanon, N. Y., where he remained 
two months; March 1, 1885, he was appointed administrator of St. 
James church at Cazenovia, N. Y., and on December 10, 1885, was ap- 
pointed assistant pastor of St. Peter's church at Saratoga, N. Y. May 
5, 1889, Mr. Brady was appointed rector of the church of the Immacu- 
late Conception at Palmer F'alls and of the church of the Holy Infancy 
at Luzerne, N. Y., where he has been for nine years, and in that time 
has paid the debt on the church and made many improvements on the 
property. He has built a rectory adjoining the church which is entirely 
free from debt. The Catholic congregation also own a cemetery in 




RHV. EDWARD M. BRADY 




U3^ kK4^' < 




BIOGRAPHICAL. 577 

Corinth, which is also free from debt, so that at the present writing, 
April G, 1898, the church, rectory, and cemetery are entirely free from 
encumbrances. 



WILLIAM DOUGLASS McNULTY. 

William Douulass McNulty was born in .Saratoga Springs, N. V., 
August 20, 1868; received his preparatory education in the schools of 
his native place and his collegiate education at Boston and Yale Uni- 
versities. From the latter university he was graduated with the degree 
LL. M. and returning to Saratoga Springs read law, first in the office of 
Hon. Charles M. Davison, United States Commissioner, and subse- 
quently with Gen. Winsor B. French. Since his admission to the Sara- 
toga county bar he has practiced his profession in Saratoga Springs with 
a success which in so young a practitioner is marked. An indication of 
his ability is found in the fact that he is serving as counsel for several 
prominent corporations, including Armour & Co., the Hudson River 
Telephone Company, the Saratoga Brewing Co., Dobler Brewing Co., 
Saratoga Natural Carbonic Acid Gas Company, the Champion Natural 
Acid Gas Company, the Eureka and the White Sulphur Springs, and 
by the fact that he is a member of the American Bar Association. Mr. 
jMcNulty has also an extensive practice in the city of New York, where 
he maintains an office in the New York Life Insurance Building, 346 
Broadway. 

In politics Mr. JIcNulty is a Democrat and his party has repeatedly 
indicated its appreciation of his services, he having served as chairman 
of the Town, County, Senatorial, and Congressional Conventions and 
Committees, as well as of various executive committees. A society of 
the younger Democrats of .Saratoga Springs has been named The 
William D. McNulty Club in his honor; he is a member and ex-pres- 
ident of the Jeffersonian Club of Saratoga .Springs, and a member of 
the Democratic Club of New York, and the Albany Club at Albany, 
N. Y. He has served his town as justice of the peace, member of the 
Town Health Board, and as police justice. 

37 



57S OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

EDWARD R. TODD. 

Edw.ard R. Todp, son of David C. and Mary C. (Russell) Todd, 
was born in Argjde, Washington county, N. Y. , February 17, 1844. 
His parents were farmers and until he reached his majority he lived on 
the farm, attending the schools of the vicinity and later the commercial 
school at Poultney, Vermont, from which he was graduated. When a 
young man he learned the carpenter's trade which he followed for 
many years. In 1873 he came to Saratoga Springs and worked at his 
trade until 1881. In this year he bought the wholesale and retail lum- 
ber business of A. W. Wright at the intersection of Division and Wal- 
worth streets. Mr. Todd has since conducted this business, employing 
several men and dealing in all kinds of builders' materials and supplies. 
He has been recognized as one of the leading business men of Saratoga 
Springs, is a staunch Democrat in politics and has been serving as 
street commissioner since the spring of 1897. He holds membership in 
the Royal Arcanum. 

In 1871 Mr. Todd married Clementine Langworthy Woodard, and 
their daughter is the wife of W. B. Milliman of Saratoga Springs. On 
both the paternal and maternal sides Mr. Todd is of Puritan ancestry. 
His grandfather was John Todd, whose father, also John, was a Revo- 
lutionary soldier. 



GEORGE F. TURPIT. 

George F. Turpit, clerk and postmaster of Malta, N. Y., was born 
in the town of Malta, May 31, 1873, and is a son of John J. Turpit. 
George F. was educated in the district schools of Malta and Round 
Lake and in the fall of 1893 took a course in the Albany Business Col- 
lege. Subsequently he entered the employ of Selch & Turpit at 
Round Lake, where he remained until January, 1896, when he engaged 
in the general merchandising business at Malta. In January, 1890, he 
was appointed to the office of town clerk to fill vacancy and elected to 
that office in March of the same year, and re-elected in 1898. Although 
a Republican in politics, he was appointed postmaster at Malta by 
President Cleveland, in September, 189(), and is still an incumbent of 
that office. He is recognized as one of the most enterprising young 
business men of his section and is held in high esteem. May 30, 189G, 




EDWARD R. TODD. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 579 

he married Libbie, daughter of George and Katie (Allen) Gildersleeve, 
of Malta. Mr. and Mr.s. Turpit are members of the Presbyterian 
church. 



DR. PETER BELLINGER. 

Dr. Peter Bellinger, Milton, was born in Herkimer count}', N. Y. , 
May 1, 1833, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Campbell) Bellinger, and 
was educated in the schools of Herkimer and took a preparatory course 
at Fairfield Academy. He studied medicine with Drs. Harvey W. and 
A. F. Doolittle of Herkimer, and in IS-tO attended the Alban}' Medical 
College; in 1847-48 he attended the Crosby Street Medical College of 
New York city, where he took a hospital course and in 1849 took a chem- 
ical course at Castleton, Vt. That same year he settled in Mohawk, 
N. Y., where he practiced successfully for eleven years. He was a 
member of the 40th Regiment of Infantry, in which he held the position 
of adjutant. He moved to Rowland Hollow, and after the death of his 
father-in-law, on January 2G, 1857, took charge of his business, also 
followed his profession for a few years but now devotes his whole time 
to dairy farming. 

On January 1, 1858, Dr. Bellinger married Caroline, daughter of 
Isaac and Mary Rowland, and the\' had two children : Charlotte, born 
December 4, 1858, educated at Fairview Seminary and later took a 
course at Hillside vSeminary, then entered Vassar College, but on account 
of her eyes was obliged to return home after two 3'ears; she married 
Charles Waring and died December 30, 1890. Dr. Bellinger's only son, 
Isaac Rowland, was born April 20, 18G2, and died at the age of three 
and one-half years. Mrs. Bellinger died December 9, 1894. 



JOSHUA ANTHONY. 

Joshua Anthonv, son of Joshua and Lydia T. (Buffinton) Anthony, 
was born in the town of Adams, Berkshire county, Mass., February 
IG, 1839. The family is of Yankee lineage, its representatives having 
been early settlers in New England. They trace their descent from 
Dr. Francis Anthony, born in London in the year 1550. Humphrey 
Anthony (grandfather) was born in Berkshire county, Mass., in 1770. 
He was a farmer and blacksmith by trade and lived to the ripe old age 
of ninetj'-six j-ears. 



580 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Of his sons one was Joshua Anthony, sr., who was born on the old 
homestead farm, where he also died in the thirty-ninth year of his age, 
July 25, 1841. He was a steady and industrious man, a Friend in re- 
ligious belief and a member of the Friends Society. Although he died 
before hardly reaching the prime of life, he had met with considerable 
success as a farmer and stock dealer. He married Lydia T. Buffinton, 
who survived him but a year. Their children were four: Joshua, the 
subject of this sketch; Ira L., John B. and William H. 

L5'dia T. Buffinton Anthony was a daughter of Zephaniah and Joanna 
(Wells) Buffinton, both members of the Friends Society, who removed 
from Berkshire county, Mass., to Mechanicville in this county during 
the year 184(). They first settled on a farm purchased from James 
Bradshaw, now known as the John K. Pruyn farm. They later 
removed to the farm now owned by Joshua Anthony, in order to be at 
a more convenient distance from the Friends meeting-house. After 
the death of their mother Joshua Anthony and his three brothers were 
taken by their maternal grandparents by whom they were reared. 
Mr. Buffinton died April 19, 1858, at the advanced age of eighty-seven 
years, and his wife died four years later in her eighty-fourth year. 

Joshua Anthony was educated in the common schools, and at the age 
of eighteen began his business life as a clerk in a store at Jonesville. 
Subsequently he was engaged in a like capacity in mercantile houses 
at Schuylerville, Troy and Stillwater. He left the latter place in-the 
spring of 18G7 and returned to the home farm, of which he assumed 
the management. In 18G9 he began in a small way his present success- 
ful business as a manufacturer of baking powder and cream of tartar. 
In 1892 he added spice grinding and the manufacture of fluid extracts 
for flavoring purposes. The present factory is a two story building, 
forty by sixty, and is equipped with perfected and rapid machinery. 
The spice mills occupy the larger part of the adjoining high brick 
structure, thirty-six by sixty-six. Work is given to a number of em- 
ployees, the major portion being women. 

In politics Mr. Anthony has been a staunch Republican and when he 
resided at Stillwater served as United States assistant assessor. The 
cares of growing business, however, have precluded his taking an active 
part in political affairs, but he has always been a man of great public 
spirit, and has accomplished much for the good of the community in 
securing a station on the Schenectady branch of the Delaware and 
Hudson railroad, at Ushers, June 19, 1882. This station was first 




bUWlN 1-ARRUW 



BI0(;RAPHICAL. 581 

called "Hammonds" in honor of C. D. Hammond, superintendent of 
the road. In 1883, through the efforts of Mr. Anthony, a post-office 
was secured under the name of Ushers. The name of the station was 
then altered to correspond. This change was due to the fact that there 
was previously in existence a post-office called "Hammond" in this 
State. Mr. Anthony has also established a private telegraph line from 
Ushers to his factory. 

He is a prominent thirty-second degree Mason, formerly a member 
of Montgomery Lodge No. 504 of Stillwater, and now a charter mem- 
ber of On-da-wa Lodge No. 820, of Mechanicville. He is also a mem- 
ber of Waterford Chapter No. 169, R. A. M., of Bloss Council of Troy, 
N. Y., No. 14, R. & S. M,, of Apollo Commandery of Troy, No. 15, 
K. T., of Delta Lodge of Perfection of Troy, Delta Council P. of J. of 
Troy, of Delta Chapter Rose Croix of Troy, of Albany Sovereign Con- 
sistory of Albany, of Oriental Temple of Troy, A. A. O. N. M. S., and 
of the Masonic Veteran Association of Troy and vicinity. 

Mr. Anthony married, March 23, 1808, Mary E. Ingraham, daughter 
of William S. and Sila (Gilbert) Ligraham of Fulton county. William 
S. Ingraham died April ;>, 1891, aged seventy five years; his wife had 
passed away March 2, 1887, in her sixty- seventh year. 

Of this union of Joshua Anthony and Mary E. Ingraham are three 
children: Sidney]., Ira J. and -Sila G. The sorfs are actively engaged 
in the conduct of Mr. Anthony's extensive business. 



EDWIN FARROW. 

Edwin Farrow was born in England, February 23, 1849, a son of 
James and Annie (Wilkinson) Farrow, who came to this country and set- 
tled in Utica, N. Y., about 1852. He afterwards moved to Schaghticoke 
and from there to Cohoes, where he engaged to take charge of painting 
for the Harmony Mills Co. Edwin was educated at Cohoes and 
Schaghticoke ; when about sixteen years old he went to work for the 
Harmony Mills Co., under his father, to learn the painting trade; he 
stayed there two years and then went to New York city to finish his 
trade with John Taylor, house and sign painter of Third avenue. From 
there he went to work at painting and lettering for the Erie Railroad 
Co. at their shops in Jersey City, N. J. While there he attended night 
school at Peter Cooper's Institute, New York city, and studied draw- 



582 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ing-. Upon a request from his father, in April, 18G0, he returned from 
Jersey City, and wlien twenty years old he formed a copartnership 
with his father in the paint, glass and wall paper business in Cohoes, 
which continued for eight years. He then purchased his father's in- 
terest and continued the business alone for four years, when he sold 
out to his father and brother, and in December, 1881, he bought out 
the mill property at Willow Glen and moved to that place. In May, 
1882, he rebuilt the mill that was burned down when he bought the 
property, starting a mill for the manufacture of knit goods, under the 
name of the Willow Glen Knitting Mill Co. In 1893 he started the 
Mechanicville Electric Light Works, which has a capacity of 1,000 
IG-candle power lights. In the fall of 1898 he began to enlarge the 
plant to a capacity of 3,200 IG-candle power lights. 

Mr. Farrow married Mary Josephine MacDonald. He is a public 
spirited man and has done much to improve his town. He and his wife 
are active in the Mechanicville Methodist church. 



THOMAS FINLEY. 

Thomas Finley was born at Milton Hill, February 5, 1850. His 
father, Terrence Finley, was a native of Ireland and came to the United 
States in 1839, settling in Saratoga county, where he was identified as 
a farmer. He married Mary Farrell, and took an active interest in 
school and church matters. He died in 1885. 

Thomas Finley was educated in Ballston Academy and entered his 
father's business, dealing in cattle. In 1884 he established the firm of 
T. Finley & Co. at Ballston Spa which he still carries on. Mr. Finley 
married Margaret J. Griffin, June 27, 1888, and they have one son, 
George T. Mr. Finley is one of the progressive men of his town, 
serving as highway commissioner, overseer of the poor three terms, 
justice of the peace two terms, and president of his village. He was 
elected supervi.sor of the town of Milton in 1898 and reelected in 1899. 
Mr. Finley has ever received and merited the respect of all his asso- 
ciates. 



RAY S. SHERMAN. 

Ray S. Sherman, .son of Delos and Cordelia (Deyoe) Sherman, was 
born in South Glens Falls, November 39, 1867. Mr. Sherman is one 




THOMAS FlNLhY. 




JEREMIAH MASTEN. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 583 

of a family of ten children: Charles A., of Denver, Col. ; Frank D., of 
Glens Falls; Howard, Chester H., Laura M.,wife of A. L. Fuller; Lillian 
C, Esther, Eulalia G., and Edith. Mr. Sherman received his educa- 
tion in the district schools and Elmwood Seminary at Glens Falls. 
His father was a mason and at twenty years of age Ray S. worked with 
him at the business for four years, when the opportunity offered itself 
to go into business. He purchased the grocery store of James J I. Rob- 
inson and embarked in that trade in 1894. 

February 12, 1892, Mr. Sherman married Jennie B. Parks, and they 
have one son, Ralph R., aged five years. Mr. vShernian is a Democrat 
politically, and was elected town clerk in 1896 and in 1898 was defeated 
for supervisor by only tvi'o votes. He is a very popular young man, 
both in social, political, and business circles and has an exceedingly 
bright future before him. He is a member of Glens Falls Lodge No. 
121, F. & A. M., and Glens Falls Chapter No. 55, R. A. M. 



JEREMIAH MASTEN. 

Jeremi.4II Masten, Milton, was born in the town of Providence, Jan- 
uary 25, 1834, a son of Ezekiel and Sarah (Wescott) Masten. His 
father came to this comity from Dutchess county when a young man of 
nineteen years, and was a lumberman and farmer, which business he 
followed until his death. He was a man who took a great interest in 
his home affairs, always public spirited, and contributed much towards 
the improvement of the town and county. Jeremiah Masten was ed- 
ucated in the common schools of the towns of Providence and Green- 
field, and when twenty-two years of age started in life for himself as a 
farmer in the town of Providence. Soon afterwards he moved to the 
town of Milton and located near West Milton, where he now lives and 
follows lumbering and farming. Mr. Masten married Abigail, daughter 
of William (i. and and Fannie (Manning) Hill, and their children are 
Harriet J., William G., Cora E. and Marvin S. 

Mr. Masten is interested in educational, town and county affairs, and 
for the past twenty years has been connected with the M. E. church of 
Rock City Falls and has held most of the offices in the church. At the 
organization of the Citizens' Co-operative Fire Insurance Company of 
Saratoga county, Mr. Masten was made one of its directors, unsolicited, 
as he was not present at the organization. 



584 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

JESSE YOUNG. 

Jksse Young, Ballston, was born in Ballston Spa, June 8, 18G4. His 
father, Rush H. Young, was a native of Greenfield, where the family 
were among the early .settlers. Rush H. Young came to Ballston in 
1852, and through life was identified in the undertaking business. He 
married Hannah, daughter of Jason Humphrey. Jesse Young was ed- 
ucated in Ballston Spa, and entered business with his father in 187G and 
for twenty-two years was engaged in the undertaking business. Mr. 
Young was one of the progressive men of his town; served as town 
clerk in 1889 and 1890, took an intelligent interest in school and church 
matters, and received and merited the respect of his associates. He 
died July C, 1898. 



BENJAMIN R. JENKINS. 

Benjamin Rush Jenkins was a native of New York State, born June 
31, 1833, and since 1852 had been an active and enterprising manufac- 
turer of wooden ware, first at Batchellerville and afterward .solely at 
Conklingville. He was familiar with the business in a very practical 
way in all its varied details. In 1876 he was burned out and then be- 
came agent for the W. & B. Van Vranken Co.; later the firm changed 
hand.s, but he held his position until his death November 28, 1890. For 
over twenty years Mr. Jenkins lived in this community and was always 
identified with every good movement. He took a deep interest in the 
Presbyterian church in this place and was constantly working for its 
welfare. He married twice; his first wife died in 1870, leaving a son, 
Benjamin S. ; and for his second wife he married Clotilda Person, by 
whom he had one daughter, Elsie. 

Benjamin S. Jenkins was born in Ivdinburgh, Saratoga county, N. Y., 
November 5, 1868, a son of Benjamin Rush and Helena A. (Sumner) 
Jenkins. He was educated in the common schools and Troy Confer- 
ence Academy. He was bookkeeper for the woodenware works until 
his father's death, when he took his father's place as manager. 

In 1894 Mr. Jenkins married Lucinda Kathan, and they have one 
daughter, Helena. Mr. Jenkins is a Republican and has held town 
office. 



«? * 




JESSE YOUNG. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 



Abel, David, was born in Stillwater, February 13, 1838. His father, William 
Abel, was born in Dutchess county and came to Stillwater with his parents, Jeremiah 
and Eva Abel, in 1T76. William married Sarah Tompkins, and through life was 
identified as a farmer. David Abel was educated in the public schools and through 
life has been identified as a farmer. In 1853 he married Elizabeth, daughter of John 
Rathborn, and thej' have two daughters: Nellie and Elizabeth. Mr. Abel is one 
of the self-made men of his town, taking an intelligent interest in school and church 
matters, and is recognized as a man of sterling integrity, whose word is as good as 
his hond. 



Akin, David, was born in Pittstown, Rensselaer county, N. Y. , April T, 1825. His 
education was obtained in the public schools of that day, and he began life's work as 
an operative in a cotton factory. He afterward became a manufacturer for many 
years and is now living a retired life of single blessedness, at Waterford, N. Y. Mr. 
Akin's father, John H.. was born at the old home in Rensselaer county, February 
29, 1793. He was educated in the schools of his day, and was a farmer by occupa- 
tion. He married Aulinda Paris of his native county, and they had seven children: 
Hannah M., William H., Rhoda A., John H., David, as above, Sarah J., and How- 
ard, who died in infancy. John H. Akin died in the year 1831, and his widow in 
1887. Mr. Akin's grandfather, Benjamin Akin, was born in the north of Ireland, 
about the year 1744, and came to the United States when a young man. He married 
a Miss Hawley, and they came on horseback through the wilderness to the old home 
in Pittstown. They had eleven children, and he died at the age of ninety-six. Mr. 
David Akin attends the M. E. church. The ancestry of the family is Scotch and 
French. 



Aldrich, E. J., was born in Day, N. Y., December 28, 1828, a son of Benoni and 
Deborah (Frost) Aldrich, who came to the town of Day at an early date and there 
lived and died. His grandfather, Benoni Aldrich, lived and died in Warren county. 
His father was a farmer and was one of the leading men of Iiis town. E. J. 
Aldrich was educated in the common schools and Kingsborough Academy. He 
began life by working for a log company in Glens Falls, remaining with this 
company twenty-three years, and for most of the time was manager of the Sacan- 
daga River portion of their business. He is one of the well-to-do men of Cor- 
inth, and has made his own property. In 1870 Mr. Aldrich bought the place on 
which he lives of sixty acres, and has added twenty-five acres, now having a farm of 



4 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

eighty- five acres; he also owns seventy acres in another farm; fifty-five acres in 
Greenfield and in the town of Day 150 acres. In politics he is independent, and in 
Day was assessor and inspector and has been inspector in Corinth. He is a member 
of the Masons, also of the [. O. O. F. January 26, 1859, he married Alvina Murray, 
daughter of Payn B. and Lovina Paul Murray. Mrs. Aldrich died October 24 1893. 
Their adopted daughter, Elizabeth, a high school teacher of several years' expe- 
rience, is now a student in the Emerson College of Oratory, Boston, Mass. 



Andress, J. J., the leading liveryman of Saratoga Springs, was born m Linesville, 
Pa., and lived there until thirteen years of age. For the next seven years he resided 
in Hartford, Washington county, N. Y., then came to Saratoga Springs and made it 
his permanent home. In 1880 he embarked in the livery busmess, and owns the 
finest and best equipped establishment in the " Queen of the Spas." His stables have 
accommodation for ninety horses, and in addition to his regular livery business he 
does a large boarding trade. Mr. Andress married Cora N. Whitford, and they have 
one daughter, Grace Darling. Mr. Andress is a genial, enterprising business man 
and highly respected. 



Andrus, Charles B. , son of Eugene A. and Anna (Gould) Andrus, was born in 
Amsterdam, N. Y., March 3, 1871. He received his literary education at the Sara- 
toga High school and took a full course in the Albany Law school, from which he 
was graduated in 1894. On May 10 of that year he was admitted to the bar and 
soon after opened his law office in Saratoga Springs. He has been successful in his 
profession and although but a young man has quite a large clientage. Mr. Andrus 
is a Republican in politics and is very popular. In the spring of 1898 he was elected 
justice of the peace for a term of four years by a majority of 472. This is partic- 
ularly noteworthy, taking into consideration the fact that the Democrats carried 
most of the offices and the Republican supervisor had only ninety majority. Mr. An- 
drus entered upon the duties of his office January 1, 1899. The Andrus family is of 
Scotch extraction, but the verified history of the family in America commences with 
Elisha Andrus, great grandfather of Charles B. Andrus. He was an old time hatter 
and was known as "the Hatter of Madison county," in which he lived. His son, 
John B., was also a native of that county and was father of Eugene A. 



Arnold, Thomas J., is a nativeof Saratoga Springs and was educated here. He was 
in the photographic business in Ballston for fourteen years and in Saratoga Springs 
for ten years, as the firm of Epler & Arnold. He is experienced and an artist in pho- 
tography and is at present conducting the Walker studio, 338 Broadway, Saratoga. 
Mr. Arnold is one of the oldest Masons, having been made one in 1868. Mr. Arnold's 
parents were William and Caroline M. (Smith) Arnold. The Arnolds were of Eng- 
lish descent and settled in America over one hundred and fifty years ago. His 
grandfather on his mother's side came to Troy, from the north, to fight in the Rev- 
olutionary war. On his mother's side his ancestry can be traced back to the Kid- 
neys who came from Holland about two hundred years ago. Mr. Arnold has two 
sons: Edwin, who is a soldier in Company L, Second Regiment, New York Volun- 
teers, and Ray Deyoe. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 5 

Arnold, Vernon E., was born on the Arnold homestead, October 5, 1860, a son of 
Elias B. and Lana Jane (Van Hyning) Arnold. He was educated in the common 
schools of the town of Stillwater, also Troy Business college. In 1893 he purchased 
the farm where he now resides and is engaged in general farming. He is actively 
interested in town and county affairs, having been connected with the election board 
every year since he was twenty-one years old. He was appointed statistician of 
Saratoga county under the bureau of crop reports of the United States. He married 
Maria, daughter of Daniel and Cornelia Baker. He has been master of the Patrons 
of Husbandry for the past six years. His father was born on the homestead where 
he now lives August 23, 1832. 



Atwell, Robert S., was born in Milton township, January 23, 1830. His father 
was a preacher in the M. E. church and a practicing physician, one who believed in 
curing spiritual as well as physical ills. Robert S. was carefully educated in Hins- 
dale and Pittsfield (Mass.) institutions, later studied medicine with Dr. Mott of 
Schuyler ville and attended medical lectures at the medical school at Castleton, Vt., 
but was, through ill health, obliged to leave before finishing the course. He came 
to Schuylerville and after recovering his health engaged in mercantile business in 
connection with his brother, R. N. Atwell, in 1850. In 18.51 he started the Battle 
Ground Herald, a weekly paper at Schuylerville, and continued as editor and pro- 
prietor for five years, when the demands of his mercantile business becoming so 
pressing he sold out the paper to John R. Rockwell, and a few months later disposed 
of his other interests to his brother and partner, and in company with another 
brother opened up at Victory Mills. This last enterprise was successfully carried on 
until 1889, when he disposed of his half of the business to his nephew, Charles F. 
Atwell, son of his late brother and partner. In 1878 he added to his other large 
holdings in real estate the farm where he with his adopted daughter, the child of 
his brother, George O. Atwell, and wife of Herbert Leggett, now reside. In 1854 
Mr. Atwell married Phoebe A. McCreedy, and they had two children who died in in- 
fancy. Mrs. Atwell died July 6, 1890. Mr. Atwell was formerly a Whig, but since 
the organization of the Republican party has been a strong adherent to the prin- 
ciples of that party. He was postmaster of Victory Mills for thirty-two consecutive 
years, from 1856 until his resignation in 1888. 



Backus, F. Albertine. — The late Phineas R. Backus was born in Chatham, Colum- 
bia county, N. Y., in 1832, educated in the district schools and was a merchant by 
occupation. In 1844 he married Charlotte E. Hicks of Brainard, Rensselaer county, 
and four children were born to them: Eugene, who died in infancy; Asbury C, 
Merville L. and F. Albertine. Asbury C. died at Andersonville prison ; Merville L. 
was also a soldier as well as a sailor, at Seattle, Washington. F. Albertine, born in 
Monroe county, resides in Waterford with her aunt, Sarah S. Proper. Mr. Backus 
traced his ancestry to William Backus who settled in Connecticut as early as 1637; 
he died in Mendon in 1849; his widow remarried and survives at this date (1898). 
Miss Backus's grandfather, Thomas Hicks, traces his ancestry to Robert Hicks, who 
came over in the ship Fortune in 1621, and settled in Duxbury, Mass. ; he was cap- 
tain in the early war. Miss Backus's uncle, John Proper, was born in Dutchess 



6 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

county, in 1808, of Holland parentage. In 1S37 he married Sarah J. Hicks of Rens- 
selaer county, moved to Waterford in 1849, and took an active interest in business 
and in the government of the village of Waterford, holding at different times re- 
sponsible positions. He died in 1891 and his wife still survives, 1898. 



Bailey, Herbert O., was born in Boston, Mass.. August 2, 1859, and when a child 
removed to New York city with his parents, where he was educated in Columbia 
Grammar School. He served two years in a broker's office in Wall street and at the 
age of nineteen entered the employ of the Ansonia Clock Co. of Ansonia, Conn., be- 
ing with them in Brooklyn. N.Y., also, and remained with them four years. In 1883 
he came to Mechanicville, N. Y., and was engaged by the Duncan Paper Co., and 
has had charge of the office since; he is also paymaster. November 15, 1888, 
he married Harriet Dwight, formerly of Albany, N. Y., and they have four children: 
Eleanor Hathorne, Mary Dwight, Lyman Dwight and Adams. Mr. Bailey's father, 
Adams Bailey, was born in Boston, Mass., May 21, 1818, educated in Boston, and 
was a merchant twenty years in Boston and Calcutta, India, until 1860. when he 
came to New York city and was an importer of iron and steel until 1870, when he re- 
tired from business. He married Caroline W. Lang of Boston, and they had five 
children; Adams, Walter L., Herbert O. (as above), Susanna H. and Frederick W. 
Mr. Bailey died in 1878; his widow survives him now (1898). Mr. Bailey's grand- 
father, Adams Bailey, was born in Scituate, Mass., in 1789. The first of the Baileys 
in America was Thomas Bailey, who came from England in 1643. Mrs. Bailey's 
father, Harvey A. Dwight, was born in Berne, Albany county, N. Y., in 1835, and 
came here with his parents when a boy, was educated in the district schools and 
Stillwater Academy and is a commission merchant in Albany. He married Mary I. 
Burton of Albany, N. \., and they had si.\ children: Harriet (as above), Mary B., 
Harvev L. , Jeane B., Lucia K. and J. Watson. The first of the Dwights in America 
was John, who settled in Dedham, Mass., coming from England in 1G30. Mr. 
Bailey's great grandfather, Adams Bailey, was a captain in the 2d Mass. Infantry 
in the Revolutionary war and his commission and sword are in the possession of the 
former. Mr. Bailey in his political choice is a thorough Democrat. He is a member 
of the National Democratic committee for the 28th Senatorial district. In 1891 he 
was elected supervisor of the town of Stillwater; in 1893 was elected president of the 
village of Mechanicville; and is treasurer of the Stillwater and Mechanicville street 
railway company and president of the Mechanicville Improvement Co. Mr. Bailey 
is a member of the Episcopal church and for a number of years has been senior 
warden and treasurer of St. Luke's church, Mechanicville. 



Baker, Aaron, was born in Stillwater, in October, 1830, a son of Israel Baker, who 
was one of fifteen brothers who settled there among the pioneers of that town. 
Aaron Baker was identified as a farmer. He was a conservative man and noted for 
his sterling integrity. In 1855 he married Maria, daughter of Thomas and Katherine 
Hanson Arnold. Mr. Baker died January 8, lS(i7, leaving his wife and one son, 
Vernon A. Thomas Arnold's ancestor was Thomas Arnold, who came from the 
State of Delaware during the Revolutionary war. Katherine Hanson's father, 
Arthur Hanson, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war and both families were promi- 
nent residents of the town. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 7 

Baker, Albert E. , son of Perry and Mary S. Griffin Baker, was born in Quaker 
Springs, July 24, 1864. There were seven children in his father's family; those sur- 
viving are Charles H., a farmer in Wayville, N. Y. ; Isaac, who resides in Glovers- 
ville, N. Y. ; William P., the youngest son, who resides at home; Elizabeth, wife of 
Charles Carpenter of Albany; Ruth, wife of Augustus Turner of Ketchum's Corners; 
and Bertha, who resides at home. Mr. Baker was educated at Colgate University 
and the Albany Business College. At twenty-two years of age he left home and 
went west and was for six years connected with the People's Railway at Kansas 
City, Mo. On his return to Saratoga county he went to New York city and was for 
some time engaged in the produce business, buying and handling country produce, 
which business he still continues. In 1S95 he purchased the Perkins farm of 136 
acres and has since devoted part of his time to general farming and the breeding of 
fine cattle, notably the Holstein and Dutch Betters; his flock of South Down sheep 
is among the finest; he also takes a great interest in turkeys, of which his flock is 
the finest and best in the township. Mr. Baker is energetic and thorough, always 
abreast of the times and in keeping with the age. Though not an active politician, 
Mr. Baker has always been an active and consistent worker in the ranks of the Re- 
publican part", and is a strong believer in its principles. January 14, 1896, Mr. 
Baker married Daisy Naylor, daughter of Rev. J. Naylor, a Baptist clergyman of 
Galway, and they have one son, Alfred. 



Baker, Elmer E., a native of Northumberland township, was born in 1860, a son 
of Hosea and Mary A. (Tallmadge) Baker. He was educated in the public schools 
and started in business life at the age of twenty-two, following farming for seven 
years and while still continuing this project purchased the Grangerville grist and 
feed mill in 1889, and still venturing further purchased the grocery and general dry 
goods store at Grangerville, and has since successfully carried on these various enter- 
prises. Besides the store and mill, Mr. Baker's farm of 196 acres on the Saratoga 
road receives its share of his attention. He is president and manager of the Sara- 
toga Creamery, is postmaster at Grangerville and is recognized as a substantial and 
influential worker in the interests of the Republican party. Mr. Baker represented 
the town of Saratoga in the board of supervisors in 1896 and 1897, but through an 
oversight in filing the nomination, which he received unanimously m 1898, his elec- 
tion was debarred. He is a member of Schuyler Lodge No. 676, Home Chapter No. 
17C, and Washington Commandery No. 33, F. & A. M. 



Baker, Fayette, was born in the township of Halfmoon, December 31, 1849, and 
educated in the public schools and Mechanicville Academy. December 29, 1875, he 
married Sarah A. Rogers, and they have five children: Cornelia F., Courtland D., 
Wjnfield S., J. Le Roy and Essie M. Mr. Baker's father, Daniel Baker, was born in 
the township of Stillwater, in 1822, educated in the schools of his day and was a 
farmer. He married Cornelia Howland, and they had nine children : Howland, John 
Fayette, Louisana, Martha, Powell (who died at the age of thirty years), Maria, 
Minnie C. and Elisha K. Mr. Baker died in 1872 and his widow in 1885. Mr. Baker's 
grandfather was born in 1765, and married twice, first to Cornelia Westervelt, and 
second to Ruth Post. Mrs. Baker's father, Courtland Rogers, was born in the town- 



8 OUR COUNTV AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ship of Malta in 1833, married twice, first to Sarah A. Eddy, and they had two chil- 
dren: Florence and Sarah A. Mrs. Rogers died in 1853, and for his second wife he 
married Marion McKinley, and they had three children: Reuben H., Essie J. and 
John G. Mr. Rogers died in 1894. His widow still survives. 



Baker, John, was born in the township of Halfmoon, October 3, 1847, and obtained 
his education in the district schools, Mechanicville Academy and Poughkeepsie Busi- 
ness College, but he has always followed the honorable occupation of farming. Oc- 
tober 5, 18T0, he married Mary J., daughter of Peter and Minerva (Morris) Smith, of 
this locality, and they had one son, Hiel S., who died in his second year. Mr. Baker's 
father's history appears in another place in this book. Mrs. Mary J. Baker's father, 
Peter Smith, was born on the homestead, now owned by John I. Smith, in the year 
1819 and he was educated in the schools of his day. He, too, was a farmer and one 
of the representative citizens of the township. He married twice, first in 1843 to 
Minerva Morris, of Halfmoon, and they had three children: Hiel J., who died at 
the age of thirteen, Mary J., as above, and an infant, who died soon after birth. 
Mrs. Minerva Smith died January 20, 1863. For his second wife he married Mrs. 
Edna Edmonds, born Scoughton, of his town. Mr. Smith died February 8, 1898, 
and his wife in 1883. Mr. Baker has held the office of justice of the peace four years 
and is one of the township's representative men. The ancestry of the family is Eng- 
lish, Welsh and German. 

Barber, Ira Collins, was born in Whitehall, August 8, 18.55, and came to Saratoga 
Springs in 1870 and began the battle of life as a poor boy, but by honesty and a clear 
head and willing hands he has become one of the reliable and progressive business 
men of Saratoga Springs. He worked for the National Express Co. for five years, 
clerked for some time, and for two years was with W. F. Howard, wholesale and 
retail woodenware, before entering into the partnership of Lewis & Barber, which 
was ultimately dissolved and Mr. Barber assumed the whole business, which he has 
since conducted with great success. In 1881 Mr. Barber married Annie N. Brennan, 
and they have three daughters: Jennie, Minnie and Lillian. Mr. Barber's parents 
were John and Adeline H. Barber. His father died when he was an infant and 
so at an early age he had to rely upon himself and without any outside aid has be- 
come a prominent business man. 

Barbour, John L., was born in Saratoga Springs and received his early education 
at a private school. He studied law with his father and also in the office of Hon. 
John W. Crane, and was admitted to the bar in 1867, since which date he has pur- 
sued the practice of his profession in Saratoga Springs. Mr. Barbour is a member 
of the Jeffersonian Democratic Club of Saratoga Springs, and of the Saratoga Club. 
He was police justice from 1884 to 1888. Mr. Barbour's parents were Oliver L. and 
Elizabeth Wells (Berry) Barbour. His father, Oliver L. Barbour, LL. D., was one 
of the greatest law authors this country has produced. He was born in White Creek 
(now Cambridge), Washington county, N. Y., July 12, 1811, of New England and 
Scotch ancestrv. His father was Oliver Barbour, a manufacturer of woolen goods. 
The deceased passed his boyhood in Fredonia, Chautauqua county, where he obtained 
his early education. When fourteen years old he began the study of law in the office 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 9 

of Judge Osborne, of Mayville, in the same county. He afterward pursued the study 
of law with Barnes cS: Noyes in Rome, Judge Storrs in Whitestown and Roderick N. 
Morrison in Penn Yan. He was admitted to the bar in 1832. In the spring of 1833 
he came to Saratoga Springs and entered the office of Chancellor Walworth, who was 
Mr. Barbour's uncle on his mother's side. He was the chancellor's clerk for several 
years, and also practiced in his court, and' took up his lifework of compiling law 
books. The degree of doctor of laws was conferred upon him by Hamilton College 
in 1859. His first work was The Equity Digest, four volumes. Second, Treatises 
on Criminal Law, embracing the practice in justice's court in criminal cases, of which 
three large editions were published. Third, Treatise on Practice in Court of Chan- 
cery, three volumes. Fourth, a Treatise on the Law of Set Oflf. Fifth, three vol- 
umes of Chancery Reports. In 1848 he became the reporter of the Supreme Court 
and published sixty-seven volumes of the reports, and three volumes of digest of 
those decisions. In 1864 he wrote a treatise on the Law of Parties to Actions, of 
which a second edition was issued in 1884. These comprise no less than one hun- 
dred and twenty volumes of standard law books, besides which he hasedited upwards 
of twenty volumes which have appeared under the names of others. He regarded 
his treatise on criminal law as his most valuable production. His chancery practice 
still stands in Michigan, New Jersey and several other States. The Chancery Re 
ports were also highly endorsed by Judge Story of the United States Supreme Court 
in 1844, and by Vice-Chancellor Sanford of New York city in 18l6, for their accuracy 
and exhaustiveness. He died December, 17, 1889. 



Barnes, George W. , was born in the town of Charlton, May 2"2, 1856, a son of 
James and Eliza (Ellerd) Barnes. His father came to this country when a young 
man, and in the early years of his life carried on the shoemaker's trade, but in his 
latter years carried on farming exclusively; he died in 1861. George W. Barnes was 
educated in the common schools of the towns of Charlton and Galway and when 
fourteen years of age started out in life for himself as a farm laborer. In 1888 he 
purchased the farm where he now resides and by occupation follows general farm- 
ing. February 13, 1878, he married Elizabeth, daughter of James Gray, and their 
children are Lillian, William, Frederick, Robert, Nellie, Stephen and Myrtle. 
George W. is a public spirited man and is active in school and town and county 
affairs. He is a member of the Patrons of Industry, and of the West Milton church. 



Barrett, Simon W. , was born in Saratoga Springs, August 10, 1859, a son of Simon 
H. and Elizabeth (Wells) Barrett. His father resided in Saratoga Springs for many 
years and was a well known citizen. Mr. Barrett was educated in the public schools 
of Saratoga Springs and at an early age began business life as a clerk in a grocery 
owned by Buell Thrasher, with whom he remained three years. At the end of this 
period he went south, but returned in 1879 and began the carpenter's trade, which 
he has since continued. Mr. Barrett established himself in business as a contractor 
in 1892 and has since built several residences in Saratoga Springs and vicinity. In 
1885 Mr. Barrett married Mary, daughter of Thomas Kirby, a native of England, 
and their children are Sampson, Irene. Thomas, Evelyn, Mabel, Walter and an in- 
fant daughter, Ethel. 



10 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Baumes, Will H., was born in Galesville, now called Middle Falls, town of Easton, 
Washington county, December 7, 1858, a son of Adam Baumes, who married Lucina 
Satterlee, and through life has been identified as a carriage manufacturer. Mr. 
Will H. Baumes was educated at the Greenwich High school and the Oswego State 
Normal school. In 1877 he engaged in the clothing business at Schuylerville, N. Y., 
in 1890 established his present business in Ballston Spa, and is carrying the leading 
stock of clothing, gents' furnishing goods, hats, caps, etc. In 1888 he married Nellie, 
daughter of Benjamin F. Manier, and they have two children; Will H. Baumes, jr., 
and Gladys. Mr. Baumes is one of the self-made men of Saratoga county, taking 
an intelligent interest in school and church matters and has ever received and merited 
the respect of his associates. 



Beach, James B., was born in Saratoga Springs, April 22, 1848, a son of Joseph 
and Julia (Duprey) Beach, natives of Montreal, Canada, where their ancestors, who 
were French people, settled generations ago. Mr. Beach was educated in the schools 
of the village and when sixteen years of age he took a position as clerk in the com- 
missary department at Washington, in 1864, and continued there in that capacity 
until the close of the war. A notable incident of his life while in Washington was 
that he was at the play in the Ford Theatre the night Lincoln was shot. After the 
war Mr. Beach learned the trade of painting and paper hanging and pursued this 
vocation until 1876. when he became connected with Morrissey's celebrated club 
house and up to the present time, a period of twenty-two years, he has been associated 
with the club house continuously. In May, 1896, he opened his brilliant parlors in 
the Mitchell Block and this establishment is one of the finest and best conducted to 
be found in the up State country. Mr. Beach is one of the oldest native Saratogians 
living in the village, which he calls " the garden spot of the world," and which he 
has seen grow up from a small village to its present metropolitan state. On Novem- 
ber 15, 1870, he married Clara R. Cole, and their children are Benjamin Ernest, and 
Bertha Luella 



Bennett, George H., son of Horace and Sophia (Skedmore) Bennett, was born in 
Fort Miller, Washington county, in 1834. His father was a miller, thus early turn- 
ing the son's mind to a liking for the same occupation. He learned the miller's 
trade with William M. Palmer of Middle Falls, Washington county, N. V., and was 
in his employ until he accepted a position with BuUard tl- Marshall of Schuylerville. 
in the Saratoga Mills, as a journeyman miller, and continued through the various 
changes until 1861, when he leased the plant and successfully conducted the business 
until failing health compelled him to retire on April 1, 1897, when he relinquished 
active management in favor of his son, James E. Bennett. Mr. Bennett has always 
been a public spirited citizen and during the many years he has been a resident of 
Schuylerville he has always manifested a lively interest in its welfare. A Democrat 
in politics, he has always taken a lively interest in the welfare of his party; he has 
twice been honored with the nomination for Assembly and as many times suffered 
defeat, yet reducing the Republican majority from 1,200 to '300. He has served fif- 
teen years on the board of education and was one of tlie promoters of the Union Free 
school at Schuylerville. He is a director and vice-president of the National Bank of 
Schuylerville. In 1855 Mr. Bennett married Miss Helen S. McRae, and their cliil- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 11 

dren are James E., who succeeded his father in the mill business; William E., a 
prominent attorney of Schuylerville; and George M. James E. is a native of John- 
sonville, and was born in 1855; he is a miller. After finishing his education at the 
Schuylerville High School he entered his father's mill and has ever since been ident- 
ified with it, succeeding his father as stated above. The business comprises the 
manufacture of Hour, mill feed, ship stuffs and grain. One article, the Saratoga 
White Rye Flour, has been continuously on the market forever forty years and com- 
mands a wide sale in New York and other points. Unlike his father, James E. is a 
Republican and a member of the board of health of Schuylerville. In 1877 he mar- 
ried Lillian Newton and they have three children: Edward N. , who is his father's 
assistant in the mill; Helen and George H. 



Bennett, William E., son of George H. Bennett, a retired miller of Schuylerville, 
was born in 1863. He was educated in the public schools of the vicinity and is a 
graduate of the Schuylerville High School. He studied law in the office of P. C. 
Ford at Schuylerville, and was admitted to the bar in 1880 and began the practice of 
his profession in his native village. Mr. Bennett is popular in .social and legal cir- 
cles, is a Democrat in politics and has enjoyed the confidence of his party associates 
by being honored with office within their gift. He was elected justice of the peace 
in 1889, and was re-elected and served to 1896; has served as delegate to the various 
conventions held in the town and county, and at the present time is serving as village 
attorney, having been appointed in 1895 and again in March. 1896; he is also attor- 
ney for the Schuylerville National Bank. In 1895 he was the Democratic candidate 
for the office of district attorney, but the county being overwhelmingly Republican 
he was defeated, although receiving 800 votes ahead of his party ticket. Mr. Ben- 
nett is a brother of James E. Bennett of the Saratoga Mills, and George M. of Schuy- 
lerville. In 1892 Mr. Bennett married Edith J. Clark of Victory Mills, and they have 
two children; Ruth and Julia. Mr. Bennett is a prominent member of St. Stephen's 
Protestant Episcopal church and one of its vestrymen. 



Berner, John. — When John Berner first started his present business enterprise, in 
1877, in Schuylerville, that part of the town where he took up his residence and 
erected his dwelling and shop was all a vacant field. Mr. Berner is a native of Can- 
ada, was born in 1843, a son of Antoine Berner, and came to the United States in 
1862, where he first worked at his trade, that of a wagon maker and blacksmith, at 
Woodstock, Conn., thence to Vincennes, Vt. , and from there to Schuylerville, where 
he established himself in business. His parents both remained and died in Canada ; 
his four brothers, Jerome and Valise are still residents of the Dominion ; Antoine 
resides in Fall River, Mass., and Isidore at Indian Orchard, Mass. He also had 
three sisters: Marie, wife of Joseph F. Letune of Fall River, Mass. ; Melanise, wife 
of Ezra Du Pall of Indian Orchard, Mass. ; and Philomene, wife of P. L. Livermore 
of Canada. In 1865 Mr Berner married Emily Perkins, and they had two children, 
both now deceased; John, born in 1867, died in 1877, and Emma, born in 1877, died 
April 5, 1897, aged twenty-one years. Though not an active politician, Mr. Berner 
has always been a consistent Republican and faithful to the principles of that party. 
He enjoys a goodly share of the patronage in his line from both town and country. 



13 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

He manufactures to order all kinds of vehicles and has an extensive trade in jobbing 
and repairing. He is a highly respected citizen, enjoying the confidence and esteem 
of all who know him. 



Bidwell, Alvin, was born in the town of Pinkney, Jefferson county, September 27, 
1820, a son of Reuben and Sarah (Hart) Bidwell, Sarah a daughter of Jeremiah Hart. 
Reuben was a son of David Bidwell, who came from Holland and settled in the 
southern part of the town of Stillwater. He was very patriotic during the war and 
was very nearly taken prisoner by the Tories who tried to enter his house, but with 
the aid of his dog and his gun he defended his house against them. He was also a 
very public spirited man and an active worker in the Presbyterian church of the town 
of Malta. Alvin Bidwell was educated in the common schools of the town of Still- 
water, and Jones Academy. He lived with his father, assisting on the farm until he 
was twenty-two years of age. when he leased the farm of his father and started in 
life for himself. Six years later he purchased the farm from his father and has fol- 
lowed farming up to the present time. In early life he was active in town and 
county affairs and all public spirited enterprises. He married Helen, daughter of 
David Flagler, and they had two children: Harriet Aurelia (deceased) and Belle, 
wife of W. H. Allen of Mechanicvtlle. Mrs Bidwell died and for his second wife he 
married Ruth S. Garrison, a daughter of Henry Ferris. 



Blodget, George W., chief of police, Saratoga Springs, was born in Brooklyn, N. 
Y. , September 26, 1847, and has been a resident of this county since 1830 and of 
Saratoga Springs since 1859. He received a liberal public school education, and in 
1863, when but fourteen years of age, he showed not only his patriotism, but also the 
sterling stuff of which he was made, by enlisting in the Sixteenth New York Heavy 
Artillery. At general muster, however, he was discharged on account of his youth, 
but in 1864, when the cruelties of war had become fireside love, undeterred by 
prospect, he again enlisted, this time in the Si.'cty-fourth New York Infantry, Com- 
pany B, serving until the close of the war, and was honorably discharged m 1865. 
In January of the following year (1866) he enlisted in the Twenty-fifth Regiment, 
United States-Regulars, and saw three years of service with them, having been pro- 
moted to sergeant, and received his honorable discharge January 28, 1869, at Paducah, 
Ky. He then returned to his home in Saratoga Springs and learned the carpenter's 
trade with his father. This occupation he pursued until 1878, when, being elected 
constable, he gave all his attention to the duties of his office, and after serving as 
constable for some time he was appointed deputy sheriff, which office he held until 
appointed chief of police in 1880. During the twelve years of service, already accom- 
plished. Chief Blodget has proved himself both an able and wise officer, and Sara- 
toga Springs has benefited accordingly. He brings to the discharge of his duties, 
not only the keen sense of the officer, but also the broad intelligence of an able man 
and so efficient is the force under his direction, that in the '• seasons" when the pop- 
ulation of the village is vastly increased, there is not the slightest difference in the public 
order that uniformly prevails. Chief Blodget is a member of several organizations, 
among them being Rising Sun Lodge, No 103, F. & A. M ; Rising Sun Chapter, No. 
131, R. A. M. ; Cryptic Council, No. 37, R. iV S. M. ; Washington Comniandery, No. 
33, K. T. ; Oriental Temple, N. M. S. ; the Odd Fellows, the A. O. U. W., and Mc- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. ll! 

Kean Post, G. A. R. He is a Republican in politics and a member of the First 
Methodist Episcopal church. In 1878 Chief Blodget married Ruey Howe, daughter 
of Page and Lucy Howe. His parents were Ambrose and Eliza J. (Milliman) 
Blodget. 

Brewster, James H., was born in Canajoharie, Montgomery county, N. Y., July 
11, 1828, and when a child came with his parents to the town of Halfmoon. He was 
educated in the district schools and Waterfonl Academy, and was in the mercantile 
business with his brother Courtland for twelve years. He has resided here since 1860 
and followed the honorable occupation of farming, and has been supervisor, town 
auditor, and highway commissioner of his township. March 14, I860, he married 
Frances M. Lansing, of the town of Halfmoon, and they have had four children: 
One boy, who died in infancy, George W., Mary E., and David, who died at the age 
of eleven George W. married Isabella George of Waterford N. Y. , and they have 
one daughter, Frances L. Mary E. graduated from Waterford High School in 1806, 
and since then until now, 1898, when she graduated again, she has been, and is, a 
student at Lansingburgh Academy. Mr. Brewster's father, David, was born in the 
town of Lansingburgh, January 12, 1801, and was educated in the schools of that 
day. He was a farmer and dealer in real estate. He married Eliza Lockwood of 
his native town, and they had si.\ children who grew to maturity: Courtland, 
James H., as above, Mary S., Cordelia M., who married John Clute of Cohoes, and 
died May 7, 1870, Caroline and Emma A. David Brewster died in 1884, and his 
wife July 12, 1863. Mr. Brewster's grandfather, John Brewster, was born in the last 
century, and the family have descended from the Pilgrim fathers. Mrs. Brewster's 
father, Vandenburg Lansing, was born in the year 1801, before 12 o'clock p. m., 
and his twin brother, Garrett G. I., was born the first day of the year. 1802, just 
after 12 o'clock a. m. Vandenburg Lansing married Nancy Winnie of Rensselaer 
county, and they had si.K children. Mr. Lansing died April 11, 1883, and his wife 
February 2.5, 1870. Mr. Brewster is a Democrat and the family attend the Presby- 
terian church. 



Brightman, John H., was born in the town of Saratoga, in 1831, a son of Thomas 
D. and Maria Sisson Brightman. In early life Thomas was a school teacher, but in 
the latter part of his life he followed farming. He was very active in the M. E. 
church of Quaker Springs. John H., when eighteen years old, started in life for 
himself as a clerk in the general merchandise business at Ketchum Corners. After 
three years he purchased the store which he ran for about one year, then moved to 
Illinois and was employed as a traveling salesman for a wholesale notion store. 
Two years later he entered the general merchandise business at Peoria, 111., where 
he remained one year, then returned to Stillwater. In 1831 he took charge of Mr. 
T. E. Dunham's business, which he cared for until Mr. Dunham's death and then 
purchased the estate from the heirs and has followed farming and stock dealing to 
the present time. He married Sarah, daughter of T. E. and Achsa Dunham, and 
they have two children: Henry T. and Benjamin P. Henry T. married Hattie C. , 
daughter of William L. and Mary Gurnsey, and their children are Bert, Leonard. 
Nellie. Benjamin P. married Lena, daughter of George and Ida Perkins and they 
have one daughter, Esther. Mr. Brightman has been active in town and county 



14 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

affairs and was assessor for fourteen years and highway commissioner six years. 
He and his sons are members of the Patrons of Husbandry. 



Brookins, George, M. D., was born in Fulton county, January 17, 1868, a son of 
Abner and Mary (Johnson) Brookins, natives of Fulton county, where he died August 
29, 1873, and his wife March 9, 1898. Dr. Brookins was educated in Johnstown and 
attended Union College two years, and was graduated from the Albany Medical 
College April 18, 1894, November 1, of that year, he came to Middlegrove, where 
he has since carried on a successful practice. He is a member of Middlegrove Lodge 
No. 476, I. O. O. F. ; in politics a Democrat and a member of the board of health. 
December 26, 1894, he married Clara Sherman, daughter of Joseph Sherman, who 
owns the Sherman House at Caroga Lake, and they have two children ; Joseph S. 
and Marjorie C. 



Brown, Alpheus, was born in Whitehall, Washington county, N. Y., January 9, 
1853, a son of Dennis and Charlotte (Prior) Brown. Dennis Brown was a farmer and 
lived at Whitehall. He was a Republican and was assessor of the town and held 
other minor offices. He died in 1867, and his wife is now living in Stillwater. 
Alpheus Brown was educated in the common schools. His father died when he was 
sixteen years old and he took charge of the family and has made his own way in life. 
In 1878 he came to Hadley and worked at the woodenware works three years. He 
married Mary Jenkings, and they have one son, George, born March 5, 1884. Mr. 
Brown owns seventy-five acres of land where he lives and 150 acres elsewhere. He 
follows general farming and is one of the leading farmers of his town. 



Brown, Frank H., was born in Brooklyn, March 2, 1869, a son of Charles M. Brown 
and Emma Hutchinson, his wife. Charles M. has been identified with Ballston's 
business interests for thirty years, and has since retired, having his residence in 
the town of Ballston, about two miles south of the village. Frank H. Brown was 
educated in the public schools and afterwards was attended by private tutors for 
about two years, when he became associated with his father in the mercantile busi- 
ness until 1890. He afterwards entered the office of James L. Scott as a clerk, and 
subsequently read law in Mr. Scott's ofiice, during which time he held the office of 
justice of the peace and was admitted to the bar in May, 1894. He has since been 
associated with Mr. Scott in business. By his indomitable energy and perseverance 
he has already distinguished himself in many important cases and bids fair to rank 
favorably among the leading members of his chosen profession. 



Bryan, Newton T., was born in the township of Schaghticoke, Rensselaer county, 
N. Y. , April 22, 1865, educated in the district schools and the Mechanicville academy, 
and by occupation is a telegraph operator. He has been teller in the First National 
bank of Mechanicville, N. Y., for thirteen years. September 4, 1889, he married 
Lillian E. Moore of Mechanicville, and they have one daughter. Gretchen. Mr. 
Bryan's father, Amos Bryan, was born in Renssselaer county, N. Y. , March 18, 1829, 
educated in the district schools and is now a farmer. October 28, 1856, he married 
Mary E., daughter of Thomas and Maria Buckhout of the town of Schaghticoke, 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 15 

and they have had three children: Stewart A., who died in his twenty-first year; 
Newton T., as above; and Elizabeth who died at the age of two months. Mr. and 
Mrs. Bryan are living at this date, 1898. Mr. Bryan's grandfather, Hiram C, was 
born in Dutchess county, N. Y., in 1800, and came to Schaghticoke the same year 
with his parents, and was educated in the schools of that day. He married Eliza- 
beth Yates, and they had five children that grew to maturity: William W., Amos, 
Henry, Jacob and Maria. Mr. Bryan died August 7, 1853. and his widow May 17, 
1893. Mr. Bryan's great-grandfather, Elijah Bryan, was born in Connecticut, Sep- 
tember 13, 1764, and came to Pine Plains, N. Y., when a boy. He married Mi.ss 
Coy and they had four children: Ezra, Hiram C, Abbie and Sally; he died October 
9, 1843. Mr. Bryan is a member of On-da-wa lodge of Mechanicville No. 830, F. & 
A.M. ; and in poUtcs is a Democrat. He has been village treasurer six years and vil- 
lage accountant since 1891. 

Bull, Stephen C. , was born in Whitehall, N. Y. , and educated in the Albany acad- 
emy, Albany, N. Y. Since his school days he has been engaged in the insurance 
business and has attained the status of an e.\pert on insurance. He came to Sara- 
toga Spnngs from Albany, in 1896, and opened offices in the Ainsworth Place and is 
doing a general insurance business. The companies represented by him are the 
Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, of Hartford, Conn. ; Standard Acci- 
dent Insurance Company, of Detroit, Mich. ; New Jersey Plate Glass Insurance Com- 
pany, of Newark, N. J. ; the United States Fidelity & Guarantee Company, of Balti- 
more, Md., and a large number of prominent fire insurance companies. Mr. Bull is 
a member of the Masonic fraternity. In 1887 he married Sadie Parker Britton. 
daughter of the late Winchester Britton, a prominent lawyer and once district 
attorney of Brooklyn, N. Y. ; they have one daughter, Edith Britton Bull. Mr. Bull's 
parents are Martin Van Buren and Anna Jane (Stowell) Bull, of Albany, N. Y. His 
father has long been an active and succcessful insurance man. The Bull family 
were the direct descendants of Henry Bull, who was born in 1610 and who came to 
Boston from South Wales on Juue 4, 1635, and was governor of Rhode Island in 
1685, 1686 and 1090. He died at Newport in 1694. 



Bumstead, George M., was born in Youngstown, Ohio, March 33, 1853, a son of 
Caleb M. and Ann Eliza (Hatch) Bumstead. Caleb M. was an architect and builder. 
He worked in New York city and spent his last days in Youngstown, where he died 
in 1854 and his wife in 1888. George M. was reared in New York city and there ed- 
ucated. He learned the printer's trade and worked at his trade for a while in New 
York city and in 1874 came to Greenfield, where he has since lived. In 1887 he 
bought the farm he now owns of eighty acres and makes a specialty of poultry rais- 
ing and also fine butter. He is a Republican in politics and for twelve years carried 
the mail from North Greenfield to King's Station. September 37, 1877, he married 
Estella Cady, born September 37, I860, and they have four children; Roscoe M., 
Florence E., Arthur I. and Raymond S. The family are members of the Baptist 
church at Greenfield Center. 



Burrelt, James, was born in Corinth, on the farm he now owns, in 1839, a son of 
Thomas and Dorothy (Jennings) Burrett, who came to Corinth about 1815, and set- 



16 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tied on the farm James now owns. His father died April 8, 1862, and his mother 
about 1840. James was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. 
He has a farm of 104 acres and has sold a farm of forty acres within the past two 
years. He married Harriet A. Davis, and they have one daughter, Ida E., who was 
educated at Schuylerville High School and Temple Grove. She followed teaching 
for a while and is now a music teacher. Mr. Burrett is a member of the Grange of 
Corinth. He and his family attend the Presbyterian church. 



Bush, George, was born in Utica, N. Y., May 4, 1858. His father, Jacob Bush, 
came to Ballston in 1864, and engaged in the wood trade. He was noted for his 
strict integrity; he married Sarah Tie. George Bush was educated in the public 
schools and worked for R. C. Vanderburgh for si.\teen years. In 1884 he became 
associated with his father in the codl and wood business, which he established in 1879, 
and purchased the business in 1893, and is handling 3,000 tons of coal per year and 
200 cords of wood. In 1882 he married Anna, daughter of P. Conley, and they have 
two sons and four daughters: James E., George, jr.. Elizabeth, Anna, Marguerite 
and Frances. Mr. Bush is a self-made man and takes an intelligent interest in schoo I 
and church matters and is recognized as a man of sterling integrity, whose word is 
as good as his bond. 



Butler, James, was born in the town of Ballston, August 22, 1862, a son of Patrick 
and Catherine (McCune) Butler. His father came from Ireland to Ballston when 
young and throughout his life was an earnest worker in the Catholic church. James 
Butler was educated in the common schools of the town of Ballston and when about 
sixteen years of age started in life for himself as a farm laborer. When about 
twenty-six years of age he purchased the farm where he now resides, which contains 
eighty acres. June 30, 1891, he married Katie, daughter of Thomas and Catherine 
Gilgallon, and they have two children; Bertha and Willie J. In politics Mr. Butler 
is a Democrat and is active in the affairs of his town and county, also in school and 
educational interests. He and his family are members of the Catholic church of 
Stillwater. 



Butler, Walter Prentiss, son of Capt. James Prentiss and Naomi Jane (Clements) 
Butler, was born in Saratoga Springs, N. Y., April 1, 1863. He was educated in the 
public schools of this village, the North Granville Military School, Mohegan Lake 
Military Academy, Phillips Academy of Exeter, N. H., and Columbia Law School 
of New York city, from which he was graduated in the class of 1887, and admitted 
to the bar in the same year. In that year he became a member of the law firm o-f 
Pond, Brackett & Butler, which lirm became Brackett, Butler & Baucus in 1890, and 
finally dissolved in July, 1892, since which time Mr. Butler has conducted a law of- 
fice of his own. The Butler family dates its American history back into the seven- 
teenth century, when the progenitor settled in Martha's Vineyard, Mass. Early in 
the eighteenth century they moved to Woodbury, Conn., and members of the family 
participated in the French and Indian wars, the Revolutionary war and the war of 
1812. Jonathan Butler, sea captain, and his son, Malachi Butler, settled at Wood- 
bury, Conn., and the latter was the father of Solomon Butler, who was a lieutenant 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 17 

in the Revolutionary war and fought at the battle of White Plains. His brother, 
Capt. Zephaniah Butler, was the grandfather of the celebrated General Benjamin F. 
Butler, who achieved fame in the war of the Rebellion, as well as being one of the 
greatest lawyers of the country. Solomon Butler was grandfather of Capt. James 
Prentiss Butler. Walter P. Butler married Mary Ashman Kilmer, daughter of 
Chauncey Kilmer of Rock City Falls, July 9, 1890, and they have two sons, Clarence 
Kilmer and John Prentiss. Politically Mr. Butler is a Republican. 



Byrnes. Daniel, was born in the city of Cork, Ireland, about the year 1824. He 
was a graduate of Dublin College and came to the United States when twenty-one 
years old and was a farmer in Rensselaer county many years. The family came to 
Mechanicville about the year 1893. January 7, 1853, he married Mary Kane, form- 
erly of county Lathrun, Ireland, and they had eleven children; two died young; the 
others are John. Nora, Daniel, jr., M. Augustine, William, James, Mary, Andrew, 
Katherine T. John married Margaret Gorman and they had two children, Jennie 
and Margaret. Nora married John Corr and they have three children, Anna, Kath- 
leen and Harry. M. Augustine married Madeline Beck. William married Agnes 
Crowley. James married Mary Sheehan; they had one son. J. Sheehan. The family 
are members of St. Paul's Roman Catholic church. Both father and mother are 
living at this date, 1898. 



Caldwell, Emmor J., was born in the town of Mohawk, Montgomery county, Octo- 
ber 12, 1855. His father, Barney R. Caldwell, was a native of Rensselaer county 
and married Sarah C, daughter of Jacob Pink, and through life was identified as a 
farmer. E. J. Caldwell was educated in the public schools, the academy at Jones- 
ville and was graduated from Eastman's Business College in 1874. In 1876 he mar- 
ried Etta L., daughter of Lewis R. Garnsey of Clifton Park, and they have one son, 
Garn.sey J. Caldwell. Mr. Caldwell is one of the practical and successful farmers of 
-Saratoga county, having a farm of one hundred and seventy acres at Clifton Park. 
He has served as justice of the peace for eight years, supervisor six years and was 
elected sheriff of Saratoga county in 1897. He takes an intelligent interest in school 
and church matters and has ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 
He is a member of St. George Lodge No. G, F. & A. M., of Schenectady and also a 
member of the State Grange. 

Callen, Charles P., son of Patrick and Mary (Brice) Calleu. was born in South 
C;iens Falls in 186G. His father is a native of Ireland and came to the United States 
when a young man; he now resides in South Glens Falls; his mother was born in 
Albany, N. V. Charles P. received his education at the South Glens Falls High 
School, and at the commencement of his business career was connected with the 
drug establishment of George T. Doty, as clerk, for two years, after which he served 
four years with the wholesale drug house of A. McClure & Co. of Albany. He is 
also a graduate of the Albany College of Pharmacy, class 1889. At the completion 
of his term with the last named firm he returned to South Glens Falls and opened 
his present place of business in 1889, and has been very successful. In politics Mr. 
Callen is a Democrat and is one of the workers in his party and was elected treasurer 
of the village in 1895 and 189G and again in 1898. He is a young business man who 



18 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

has succeeded because he deserves to. He is energetic and wide-a-wake, witli a 
successful future before him. 



Canfield, R. A., one of the most genial and thorough of American gentlemen, is 
associated with the history of Saratoga Springs, through being proprietor of the 
famous club house, the Monte Carlo of America. This famous club house, erected 
by the also famous John Morrisey in 1870, at a cost of about $200,000, is in its con- 
duct and appointments superior to the European Monte Carlo, and its elegant apart- 
ments are visited by gentlemen, the peers of any produced in Europe or anywhere 
on the earth. It was first conducted by its founder, John Morrisey, and he associated 
two partners with him, the firm name becoming Morrisey, Reed & Spencer. After 
Mr. Morrisey's death in 1878 Messrs. Reed and Spencer conducted it for some time 
and then Mr. Reed sold out his interest to Mr. Spencer (1888) who subsequently sold 
out to Mr. R. A. Canfield (1893). the present proprietor. Mr. Canfield conducts the 
club house strictly within the rules of the corporation and the summer prospects of 
this historic resort are largely augmented by the attractions which it holds out to 
wealthy votaries seeking a congenial spot for health and pleasure. 



Carr, Richard, son of Peter and Eliza (Snell)Carr, was born in Schenectady, N.Y., 
October 31, 1845. John Carr, grandfather of Richard, was a native of Kinderhook, 
and removed to Schenectady when he was young, where he was a farmer and a 
member of the M. E. church. He raised a family of five sons and two daughters: 
Abraham, James, John, Peter, Richard, Catherine and Margaret. Peter Carr was 
born m Schenectady in 1831, and has been successfully engaged in farming there 
ever smce. He married Eliza Snell, and they had six sons and one daughter: Rich- 
ard (the subject), John, Daniel, James, Peter, Joseph and Carrie. Richard Carr was 
brought up on the farm, educated in the public schools, and at the age of seventeen 
learned the moulder's trade, which he followed eight years. He then became an 
employee on the New York Central Railroad, first as brakeman for fourteen months, 
then freight conductor between Albany and Syracuse for ten years, baggage agent 
at Schenectady for three years and then station agent at Aqueduct for six years 
until 1890, when he returned to his home and has been in Rexford Flats since. He 
is a staunch Republican and has been town clerk since 1893. He is a member of 
New Hope Lodge, No. 730, F. & A. M., Schenectady City 186, A. O. U. W., and an 
honorary member of the Iron Workers Society. In August, 1864, he enlisted in 
Co. D. 69th N. Y. Vols., and was connected with the second corps of the Army of 
the Potomac and took part in all the campaigns from Hatcher's Run to the surrender 
of General Lee. On January 12, 1806, he married Catherine, daughter of Yost 
Miller, and they had one daughter, Elizabeth, wife of George Eaton, jr., merchant 
of Clifton Park. 



Caryl, H. Julius, is a native of Otsego county, and was educated at Hartwick Sem- 
inary. He has long been a prominent member of the New York Produce Exchange 
and one of the board of directors of the New York National Exchange Bank, also a 
dealer in real estate. He married Eliza Jumel Pery, June 21, 1876. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. Caryl are descendants of Revolutionary ancestors, and Mrs. Caryl's family has 
been associated with Saratoga Springs since 1804 and Jumel Cottage was named in 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 19 

honor of Madame Juinel. Mrs. Caryl's great-grandfather, Jonathan Clark, was a 
Revolutionary soldier and a friend of John Hancock. Her father was Nelson Chase, 
a distinguished lawyer of New York city, and her mother a niece of Madam Jumel, 
whose husband, Stephen Jumel, was a merchant prince of New York in the early 
days of this century ; she purchased a tract in Saratoga Springs in 1832, which re- 
mained intact until 1881, when it was sold under a partition sale. The present Caryl 
residence is a part of that estate. Mrs. Caryl possesses a very interesting and valu- 
able collection of relics of the great Bonaparte, purchased by Stephen Jumel from a 
niece of Josephine. Stephen Jumel owned a dozen ships and sailed to France to 
bring Napoleon Bonaparte to America m 1815. Bonaparte, however, decided to 
throw himself upon the clemency of the English and then found himself lost. Among 
the relics of Napoleon is his array chest, which he carried through all his wars, and 
which has a secret lock, the key of which never left his possession imtil the day be- 
fore he left for St. Helena Mr. Caryl's parents were Hon. Leonard and Mary 
(Crippen) Caryl. His father was a member of assembly in 184 J, and his great-grand- 
father was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 



Childs, Thomas S., V. S., proprietor of the Saratoga Veterinary Hospital, was born 
in New York city, July 24, 1854, a son of James and Anna (Stacey) Childs. His 
father was a native of England and came to this country in early manhood. Dr. 
Childs was educated in the common schools of Waterbury, Conn., to which place his 
parents removed when he was an infant. Later he attended schools of business in 
Troy, N. Y.. and Williamsburg, N. Y. Very early in life he evinced a decided fond- 
ness for the study of veterinary science, and studied privately for several years. In 
1889 he entered the Ontario Veterinary College at Toronto. Canada, and continued 
his studies there for two years, fini.shing at the New York Veterinary College and 
school of Preparatory Medicine, the oldest veterinary college in America. After re- 
ceiving his diploma Ur. Childs practiced in Brandon, Vt., and in Troy, N. Y., with 
success. He settled in Saratoga in 1893 and has gained an e.\cellent practice and 
reputation. There are many valuable animals quartered at Saratoga Springs during 
the summer season and the work of a veterinary in such a place of necessity de- 
mands skill and knowledge of no indifferent order. Dr. Childs is a member of Rising 
Sun Lodge of Masons, the Chapter, Council, Commandery, and Shrine. He was a 
special officer of the New York and Brooklyn police departments for a long period. 
In July, 1883, Dr. Childs married Sadie D. Childs of Pittsfield, Mass., a member of 
an old Puritan family. 

Churchill, A. L., M. D., was born in Saratoga Springs and graduated from the 
Eclectic College of New York in 1880 and attended the University of New York in 
1881 and Albany Medical College in 1882. He immediately began the practice of 
his profession in Glenville, Schenectady county, and resided there until his health 
gave out, when he came to Saratoga Springs. Dr. Churchill is secretary of the 
board of health and register of vital statistics of Saratoga Springs. He is also on 
the hospital corps of the 122d Separate Company, and is medical examiner for the 
American Fraternal Insurance Union. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, of 
Free and Accepted Masons, and was a member of the Citizens' Corps for eight 
years, and is still medical examiner for the corps. He has been elected trustee of 



20 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the village three times and is a trustee at present On June 20, 1888, Dr. Churchill 
married Georgiana Creasey. His parents were Rodney and Ellen (Wood) Churchill. 
Rodney Churchill was a native of Post Mills, Vl. and was the inventor of, and one 
of the first men who worked the carpet loom. He performed the feat of walking 
from the East to California, over three thousand miles, in one hundred and twentj-- 
Sve days, in the early times. Afterward he served in the war of the Rebellion from 
1861 to 1864 



Clapp, George F., was bom in Ballston Spa, March 1, 1860, a son of Russell P., a 
native of the same town, and grandson of Chester Clapp. bom in Galway, July 27, 
1793. Mr. Clapp's great-grandfather, Israel Clapp, was a native of Northampton, 
Mass., where he was bom June 13, 1764. In 1780 he went to Galway, Saratoga 
county, and the family trace their descent from Roger Clapp, who sailed from Plym- 
outh, Eng., March 20, 1630, and arrived in America May 30, 1630, being seventy 
days making the trip. Russell P. Clapp married Madelia, daughter of John D. and 
Mary Ann Hale, and through life was identified in river transportation ; he died in 
1*87. George F. was graduated from Colgate University in 1881, and has followed 
in his father's footsteps and for seventeen years has been engaged in the steamboat- 
ing business. In 1887 he manned Mallie, daughter of John Barnes, and they have 
one son and three daughters: George B., Carolyn, Marion and Dorothy. Mr. Clapp 
is one of the progressive mea of his town, taking an active interest in educational 
and religious institutions, and has ever advanced the best interests of his town and 
townsi>eople. 



Clapp, Russell P., was bom in Ballston Spa, July 21, 1820, and through life was 
identified in steamboat interests. In 1848 he married Madeba, daughter of John D. 
and Mary A- (Ciiapmaa^ Hale, and they had two sons: George F. and Charles R. 
Mr. Clapp was one of the conservative men of Saratoga county, taking an acti%-e 
interest in the growth and progress of his town, and was a liberal supporter of edu- 
cational and rehgious institutions. His death, December 3. 1887, was a loss not only 
to his family, but to all who knew him. 



Clement, Daniel W., son of John J. and Hulda (Dowen; Clement, was bora in 
Saratoga Springs. September 15, 1858. His father, a successful farmer, was well 
known in this section. Mr. Clement was educated in the public schools and during 
his youth and earlier manhood worked as a farmer with his father. Soon after 
reaching his majority he began work in the Victory Cotton Mills and later worked 
on the Fitchburg Railroad. For several years subsequent he was in the employ of 
the Thomas Sc Brown Coal Company in Saratoga Springs. In 1889 he became a 
permanent fireman in the Saratoga Springs Fire Department and has now completed 
a service of nine years. Mr. Clement is a member of Saratoga Lodge No. 15. I. O. 
O. F., and for twenty-three years was an active member of the Methodist Epi.scopal 
church ; but for the past three years he has belonged to the Grogatorial Methodist 
church and is steward, treasurer and class leader. In 1878 he married Sabrina Ada, 
daughter of Evan Jones of Gle"--"'- '" V ^"^ "bey have one son, Isaac Jones 
Clement- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 21 

Clement, Col. Henn- S., of the Congress Hall Hotel, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, 
in 1S41, a son of W. H. and Elizabeth (Steiner) Clement. His father was a native of 
Saratoga Springs and a descendant of one of the oldest families in this vicinity (Put- 
nam.) On the maternal side he descends from the old Marj-land family of Steiner. 
In early life his father removed to Ohio and became one of the most successful busi- 
ness men in the State ; he was for a number of years president of the Mad River 
Railroad and of the Little Miami road ; also of the Cincinnati Southern road. He 
was tendered the nomination for governor of Ohio in 1860. Henry S. Clement was 
educated at the Ballston Academy, which in those days had an enviable reputation, 
where he was prepared for college, but at the outbreak of the Civil war he raised a 
company for the Twelfth Ohio Volunteers, of which he was elected first lieutenant. 
This was the first company accepted by Governor Denison under the call for 75.000 
men. Colonel Clement served three years and six months, ranking successively as 
captain in the Twelfth; major m the Seventy-ninth, which regiment he commandeil 
as lieutenant-colonel in Sherman's famous campaign, and after receiving an honorable 
discharge he was brevetted colonel. For a time he served as his father's private sec- 
retary, and in 1868 bought a quarter interest in the Congress Hall Hotel at Saratoga 
Springs. This interest he sold in 1871 and opened the Lindell Hotel in St. Louis, 
which became the leading hotel in the city while under his management. In 1878 
he returned to Saratoga Springs, his father and John Cox having purchased the Con- 
gress Hall Hotel, where he has since been continuously connected with the famous 
hostelry, having completed his twenty-first season in 1898. He is a Republican and 
in 1883-84 represented the Second district in the Legislature, serving on the commit- 
tees on elections, insurance and villages. He made an excellent record as a legis- 
lator, and during his term secured the passage of important bills in the interest of 
the village of Saratoga Springs, among them being a special act creating a paid fire 
department, and the sewerage bill. He is a man of strong character, pleasing per- 
sonality and exceptional ability. He married, in December. 1863, Julia H. Young, 
daughter of Thomas 'Young, and granddaughter of Hon. Samuel Young, secretary 
of state, senator from Saratoga county several terms, canal commissioner, and Dem- 
ocratic candidate for governor against De \Vitt Clinton. They have two surviving 
children: Elizabeth Clement Seavey and Henry S. Clement, jr. 



Condon, Perry D., was born in Saratoga county. May 16, 1854, a son of Michael 
and Johanna (Dooley) Condon. He was educated in the common schools of the 
town of Saratoga and Fort Edward Academy, and when twenty-six years of age 
started in life for himself as a farmer, moving on to the farm where he now resides. 
He married Mary, daughter of Owen and Hannah Meehan, and his children are 
Anna M., John, and Perry, jr. Mr. Condon and his family are all members of the 
Catholic church of the village of Stillwater. He takes an active interest in the alfairs 
of his town and county, also an interest in educational matters. 



Conklin, Othniel, was born in Providence, Saratoga county, N. Y., in 1826, a son 
of Jacob and Abigail (Peck) Conklin. He was educated in his native village and at 
Galwav, and in 1846 removed to Saratoga Springs. His life's business has been that 
of a mason. Mr. Conklin is a member of the Odd Fellows, lodge No. 15, and has 



22 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

held several important offices in the lodge, namely, noble grand, vice-grand, secre- 
tary and chaplain, which last he is now filling. On February 14, 1856, Mr. Conkliu 
married Marilla Hunter, who died twelve years after their marriage, and on Septem- 
ber 14, 1870, he married Mrs. Mary Martin Dowen. 



Coons, William H., was a native of Rensselaer county, born in 1841. In 185(3 be 
came to Saratoga county and settled on the Verplank farm, and in 1866 moved to 
Charlton, where he was identified as a farmer. He was one of the progressive men, 
serving as justice of the peace two terras and ever promoted the best interests of his 
town. In 1863 he married Jane E., daughter of John J. and Jane (Harris) Sherwood, 
and they had two sons: Edward Sherwood, and Samuel W. Mr. Coons was one 
of the conservative men of Saratoga county, and his death, which occurred February 
21, 1878, was a loss not only to his family, but to all who knew him. Of him it can 
<vell be said "an honest man is the noblest work of God." Edward S. Coons was 
graduated from Union College in 1892, taking the degree of C. E. He spent some 
time in the West and in 1895 began the study of law with J. H. Scott, and was ad- 
mitted in 1898 to the bar. In 1895 he was appointed justice of the peace. Samuel 
W. is now a student of Trinity College, in the class of 1900. 



Cowles, John, was born in Hadley, N. Y., May 10, 1855, a son of Chauncey and 
Margaret (Sage) Cowles, natives of Corinth. Chauncey was a son of Orlando 
Cowles, brother of Mrs. Rosetta Parmenter of Corinth. Margaret Sage was a 
(laughter of Philip Sage, an early settler of Corinth. John Cowles was educated in 
the common schools and followed farming si.x years. He then engaged in the manu- 
facture of pulp and is now foreman of the pulp mill in Hadley owned by H. L. 
Horton of New York city. Mr. Cowles owns a farm of one hundred and ten acres. 
He is a Republican in politics and has served as collector of his town. In 1876 he 
married Louisa Corlen of Hadley, and they have eight children: Charlie, Millan, 
Floyd, Jessie, Orville, Ira, Clayton and Edith. 



Craig, Millard F., was born in Greenfield, November 15, 1855, a son of Jeremiah 
J., son of Samuel H. Craig, one of the early settlers of Greenfield. Jeremiah J. was 
a farmer by occupation and also a merchant at Middle Grove for some years. In 
politics he was a Republican and was highway commissioner and assessor for a num- 
ber of years. He was a member of Middle Grove Lodge No. 476, I. O. O. F. ; 
married Malinda Lewis of Saratoga county, a daughter of Stephen Lewis, and they 
had three children: Ellen (deceased), Horatio, a physician in Ballston Spa, and 
Millard F., who was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools and Fort 
Edward Institute. He follows general farming and now owns one hundred and 
twelve acres of land. In 1880 he married Sarah F. Smith, born in Fulton county 
and daughter of John H. Smith, and they had three children, two died in infancy, 
and Jessie now deceased. In politics Mr. Craig is a Republican and has been town 
collector. He is a member of Middle Grove Lodge No. 476, L O. O. F. Mrs. 
Craig's father is a Democrat; has been justice of the peace, town clerk and super- 
visor of Greenfield, and police justice of Ballston Spa several years. He once owned 
the paper mills at Middle Grove, but now lives a retired life in the village of 
Mechauicville. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 23 

Crippen, George M., was born at Glens Falls, November 1, 1854, and was educated 
in the public schools of his native place and while yet a boy entered the general store 
of Coolidge, Lee & Co. of Glens Falls, as an errand boy. From this position he 
gradually rose to be chief clerk in the dry goods department, and after seven years 
with this firm resigned his position in 1874 and came to Saratoga Springs in 1875, 
where he opened a dry goods and carpet business. This enterprise he conducted 
for twenty years with the success which has characterized everything to which he 
has put his hand, and finally disposed of it to establish the manufacturing house 
known as The Crippen-Russell Co., manufacturers of ladies' wrappers and house 
dresses. This company was dissolved in the spring of 1898 by the retirement of 
Mr. Russell through ill health, since which time the firm has been Crippen, Reid & 
Coon. In a public way Mr. Crippen has evinced much interest m Saratoga Springs; 
he has been treasurer of the village board of trade and served six years as a member 
of the board of education. In October, 1879, Mr. Crippen married Kate M. Baker, 
daughter of Benjamin Baker of Greenwood, 111., and they have four chil 'ren living: 
Laurence A., Mildred, Harley and Gertrude. 



Crocker, Harry, was born in Dorsetshire, England, August 12, 1838, a son of Ben- 
jamin and Harriet (Clark) Crocker. He passed his boyhood and youth in London, 
whither his father removed in 1845. There he was educated and learned the trade 
of carpenter and joiner, which he pursued until 1870, when he came to America and 
settled in New York city, remaining there only a year, and then after looking at 
several places came to Saratoga Springs in 1873 and made it his permanent home. 
Here he passed six years as foreman for Daniel Main and in 18^8 began taking con- 
tracts on his own account. From the first his superior work and honorable business 
methods asserted themselves and his trade grew rapidly and for years he has been 
the leading contractor of Saratoga county. He is also an extensive lumber dealer 
and has done a great deal in building up the handsomest buildings and sections 
of Saratoga Springs. Politically Mr. Crocker is a Democrat and is highly esteemed 
by his party; he was elected supervisor of the town in the spring of 1896, for a term 
of two years. He is a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity; the Ancient Order 
of United Workmen ; a prominent Mason, having passed to the degree of Knight 
Templar; and as a man is highly popular. In 1867 Mr. Crocker married Eliza 
Hole of Devonshire, England, and their children are Bertha, Lillian and Mabel. 



Curtis, Albert S. — Andrew and Jonathan Curtis, two brothers, came to Saratoga 
county about 1795. Jonathan settled about a mile west of Ballston Center; Andrew 
settled in the town of Charlton and about three years later moved to the town of 
Ballston and settled on the west side of Ballston lake. Jonathan married Miss 
Sherman, relative of Roger Sherman, and their children were Sherman, Capt. Isaac 
Curtis, who was a veteran in the war of 1812, and was located during the war at 
Brooklyn ; Jonathan, Hinman, and one daughter, Peninah. Sherman married Polly, 
daughter of Timothy Crane, and their children were Orville, Peninah, Elizabeth, 
Mary, Sarah, Esther and Albert Sherman. The only surviving member of the fam- 
ily is Albert Sherman Curtis. Andrew's wife was named Eunice, and their children 
were Alfred, Abijah N., Elisha, Luzon and two daughters. Albert S. Curtis was 



24 OUR COUNTV AND ITS PEOPLE. 

educated in the common schools of the town of Ballston. He was born October 5, 
1826, and his early life was spent on the farm with his father, assisting on the farm 
summers and attending school winters, until he was about seventeen years of age. 
At that age he look charge of his father's estate and a short time later purchased 
the estate from the heirs and carried on the farm and practiced surveying until he 
retired from active life in 1894. September 14. 1853, Mr. Curtis married Annie 
Maria, daughter of Morehouse and Maria Belts, and they have three children ; Dr. 
Pearson Crane, Harriet (married Dr. Z. L. Baldwin of Michigan), and Dr. Orville 
Curtis. Mr. Curtis has always taken an active pari in town affairs, was elected 
town clerk several years and has been active in school and educational work. 



Curtis, Eugene E., was born in the town of Stillwater, September 30, 1852, a son 
of William P. and Catherine Curtis, who had ten children: Clarence, Eugene E., 
Frank, Edward, Ella, wife of Robert Smith, John A. and George, and three who 
died in infancy. William Curtis was a farmer and was born in the town of Saratoga, 
a son of Zachariah, who came from Vermont with his brother and settled in the 
town of Saratoga. Eugene E. was educated in the common schools of the town of 
Stillwater, and Fori Edward Institute. When twenty-five years of age he started in 
life for himself as a farmer and rented a farm in the northern part of the town of 
Stillwater, which he carried on for five years; he purchased the farm where he now 
resides in 1885, containing 115 acres. He has been active in town and county affairs 
and vi^as recently elected to serve his si-xth consecutive term as justice of the peace. 
He has been active in school work and is a member of the M. E. church and super- 
intendent of the Bemis Height Sunday school and president of the Christian En- 
deavor Society; he is also a member of the American Mechanics of Stillwater. He 
married Jane Ellen, daughter of Daniel and Caroline Creal, and they have three chil- 
dren living and two deceased: Edith B. , Lena A., and Elosia M. 



Curliss, Anson F., was born on the farm where he now resides, October 6. 1849, 
a son of William S. and Martha (Van Ostrand) Curliss, who had five children : Frank 
P., Anna N., Anson F., Angle C, and Martha, natives of the town of Ballston. 
William S. Curliss was a son of Abijah N. and Naomi (Smith) Curliss, and their chil- 
dren were William S., Phoebe, Ro.sella, Andrew, Charlotte and Anson. William S. 
followed farming and lumbering. Abijah Curtiss was a son of Andrew and Phoebe 
Curtiss, who came from Connecticut, and their children were Nicholas, Abijah, 
Elisha, Luzon and two daughters. Nicholas followed lumbering and farming and at 
one time he owned two saw mills. Anson F. was educated in the common schools 
of the town of Ballston, and later spent two years at Whiteslown Seminary. After 
returning from school he assisted his father on the farm until 1882, when he pur- 
chased the old homestead where he now lives. September 21, 1879, he married Ettie 
M., daughter of John P. and Eusebia Smith, and their children are Ella Marjorie, 
Jenette Belle, William Schuyler, Alice La Dow, Frank Plait, and Anna Esther. Mr. 
Curtiss has been active in town and county affairs; justice of the peace five years 
and assessor nine years, and is a member of the Presbyterian church at Ballston Center. 



Dalton, Walter M., was born in Mechanicville, N. Y., February 22, 1862. His 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 25 

parents moved on a farm when he was a child ; he was educated in the district 
schools and was a farmer until he attained the age of eighteen j-ears. He came to 
Mechanicville in 1880 and was engaged in various occupations; he was vice-president 
and superintendent of the Crosby Shirt Co. eight years, and April 1, 1897, formed a 
copartnership with William Tirney in the steam milling business, dealing m flour, 
grain, feed, hard and soft wood, under the firm name of Tirney & Dalton, which has 
proved an increasing success. January 6, 1886, he married Ella F. Sheehan, and 
they have two children: Arthur and Mabel. Mr. Dalton's father, Patrick Dalton, 
was born in Ireland about the year 1839 and came on his own responsibility to the 
United States at the age of fourteen years and was a farmer by occupation ; he mar- 
ried twice, first, to Kittie Dowd, and they had ten children, four of whom are living: 
Thomas, Jennie (wife of James Little), Walter M. (as above) and William. Mrs. 
Dalton died in June, 1879, and for his second wife Mr. Dalton married Bridget 
Leonard. Mr. Dalton is still living, 1898. Mrs. Dalton's father, John Sheehan, was 
born in Ireland, June 20, 1820, and came to the LTnited States in 1833; he married 
Hannah Splain, and they had seven children: John, William, Mary, James, Ella P., 
Timothy and Anna. Mr. Sheehan died October 3, 1890, and his widow in Februarv, 
1896. 



Daniels, John M., was born in the town of Greenfield, April 28, 1850, a son of John 
T. , son of Nathan, son of Nathaniel, who came from Connecticut to Greenfield in 
1794 and there lived and died. John T. was a farmer and lumberman and lived and 
died in Greenfield in 1888; his wife, Ann Eliza Miller, died in 1879. John M. Daniels 
was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools. He is a farmer and 
owns eighty-eight acres of land. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. ; A. O. U. W., 
and P. of G. In politics he is a Republican and is now serving his twelfth year as 
assessor. He married Altha E. Jeflters of Hadley, and they have had four children: 
Gertrude C, Annie E., Leroy J. and Clifford G. Gertrude C. died June 26, 1898. 



Darrow, William C, w-as born in the town of Greenfield, N. Y., December 9, 1816, 
a son of Ebenezer and Lydia (Hoyt) Darrow. His father was born in Milton, Sara- 
toga county, N. Y., January 1, 1792, and died June 7, 1872. His mother was born 
January 25, 1796, and died November 4, 1877. Ebenezer was a son of Thomas Dar- 
row, of Danbury, Conn., who was lost at sea in 1810. Lydia Hoyt was a daughter 
of Jonathan Hoyt, who was born in 1760. Ebenezer Darrow was a carpenter by 
trade and was drafted in the war of 1812, but the war closed before he went. Will- 
iam C. was reared as a carpenter and farmer and has followed the carpenter's trade 
ever since; he also owns a farm of eighty-five acres on which he moved in 1844. He 
married Amanda M. Calkins, born in Greenfield, April 11, 1814. and died June 23, 
1897; they had two children: Annette Maria, born April 28, 1843, and Stephen E., 
born in December, 1845. Mr. Darrow is a Republican in politics and has been in- 
spector of elections. Stephen E. Darrow was born in Greenfield. December 18, 1845. 
educated in the common schools and Saratoga private schools and Fort Edward In- 
stitute. He is a farmer and has 100 acres of land and follows general farming. 
June 20, 1S75, he married F. Josephine Wing, and they have seven children: Alice 
A., Arthur E., Mabel J., William G., Norman Earl, Marion F. and Helen W. Mr. 



26 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Darrow is a member of the A. O. U. W. , and P. of H. In politics he is a Republican 
and was commissioner of highways five years, excise commissioner two terms and 
elected supervisor in 1898. 



Dee, John, was born in Ireland, May 3, 1840, a son of John and Kittie (Butler) 
Dee. His father came to this country in September, 1848, and at the breaking out 
of the war of the Rebellion in 1848 he took an active part and was forced to move to 
America, where he was followed by portion of his family soon after. When he first 
came to this country he worked as a day laborer, afterwards he purchased a farm 
near Fort Ann, where he lived until his death. John Dee, the subject of this sketch, 
was educated in the public schools of Fort Ann, assisting his father on the farm 
summers and attending school winters. When he was seventeen years of age he 
started in life for himself as a farmer; when thirty two years of age he purchased a 
farm adjoining the one where he now lives, where he lived for ten years; and in 1885 
purchased his present farm. He has been active in town and county affairs, also 
education and in the Catholic church. 



De Garmo, Deroy, was born in the town of Lysander, N. Y., September 11, 1836. 
His father, Jacob De Garmo, was a native of Saratoga county, and his grandfather, 
Matthew De Garmo, came to Saratoga about 17.50. Jacob De Garmo married Mary 
Sutphin, and was identified as a farmer. Deroy Ds Garmo was educaired in the 
common schools, and carried on farming for fifteen years. In 1872 he came to Balls- 
ton and engaged in the livery business, then established his present business of con- 
tractor and builder and for sixteen years was employed in railroad intere.sts. In 
1892 he resumed his business of contracting. In 1861 he married Frances A. Wood, 
who died in 1863. Afterwards he married Harriet Dennison, and they have one son, 
Albert C. Mr. De Garmo is one of the self-made men of his town. He takes an 
active interest in school and church matters and is recognized as a man of sterling 
integrity, whose word is as good as his bond, and a firm advocate of temperance 
principles. 

Dehn, Christian, was born in Germany, February 25, 1859, and came to America 
in 1890, settling in Saratoga Springs. He was an expert florist in the old country 
and at once engaged in the same business here. He has erected a new place near 
the corner of Beekman and Division streets, where he has a very fine stand. In 
Germany he had a store at the corner of Carl and Jahn streets, in Wiesbaden. March 
17, 1883, Mr. Dehn married Sophie Witte, and they have one son, Charles. 



Densmore, Isaac, was born in Corinth, March 30, 1865, a son of R. H. and Amy J. 
(Carpenter) Densmore, she a native of Saratoga county and daughter of Isaac Car- 
penter. R. H. Densmore was born in Warren county and came to Greenfield with 
his parents when a mere child. He has followed undertaking and manufacturing 
furniture for about thirty-five years, first at South Corinth and in 1892 came to Cor- 
inth. In August, 1896, he retired from business and his son Isaac succeeded him. 
Mr. Densmore was a soldier in the late war, enlisting in 1861, and was wounded in 
the first engagement, when he was honorably discharged. He is a Republican in 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 27 

politics and was one of the county appraisers when trying to equalize taxes in the 
State. Isaac Densmore was educated in the common schools and Troy Business 
College, from which he was graduated m 1883. He left home at fifteen years of age 
and began as clerk at South Corinth for H. B. Cady, and attended school at the 
same time. He was clerk there for about four years and then engaged in the mer- 
cantile business at North Greenfield and was made postmaster at that place when 
twenty-one years of age. He came to Corinth in 1896, bought out his father's busi- 
ness and has the largest business of the kind in the village and is the only under- 
taker. In 188.5 he married Alice S. Taylor and they have one son, James H. In 
politics he is a Republican and was appointed town clerk in 189."> and reelected in 
1898. He is a member of St. John's Lodge No. 22. F. &- A. M., St. John's Chapter 
No. 103, R. A. M. and of Tent No. 275, of Corinth, N. V. 



Denton, Myron, the subject of this sketch, was born in Saratoga, N. Y., March 7, 
1819, at the homestead one mile west of the village, and having bought adjoining 
property, spent most of his life there until he passed away, March 10. 1896. He was 
the eighth in descent from Rev. Richard Denton who was born in England in 1580 
and came to Boston in 1632 in the ship Arabella with the party of Governor Win- 
throp. He was first pastor of the Congregational church in Stamford, Conn., and 
after removed to Hempstead, L. I., where he founded the first Presbyterian church 
in America. He returned to England and died in Essex in 1662. Myron was a son 
of Jacob and Eva Elizabeth (Miller) Denton. His father was a native of Greenfield 
born February 11, 178L near the present sight of "Overlook Mansion" in Woodlawn 
Park, in the log house built by his father, Preston Denton, m what was then a wilder- 
ness. Preston Denton, born m May, 1755, came to Saratoga from Dutchess county. 
Early in May, 1775. he joined an independent company of militia, m the town of 
Stillwater, they being the first troops that went from the frontier of New York to 
fight the enemy at the North. Later he was with a company under Col. Ethan 
Allen, when they were captured by the British and sent to England. He was re- 
turned to New York and afterward made his escape from the prison ship and came 
to Greenfield where he lived until his death, November 13, 1826. His wife, Esther 
Deyoe, was the daughter of Jacob Deyoe, one of the early .settlers of Wilton. She 
was born October 5, 17G3, and died March 12, 1836. Myron Denton was reared on 
his father's farm and educated in the common schools and the Union Village Acad- 
emy. He carried on a successful dairy business and served his patrons for forty- 
seven years without missing a day. A man of the strictest integrity in all his 
transactions with others, he commanded the respect and esteem of all who knew 
him. In politics he was a staunch Republican, and held several minor town offices, 
serving as assessor and highway commissioner. On July 4. 1849, he married Luciuda 
White Scofield, who was born in Greenfield, January 11, 1827, and died in Saratoga 
May 2. 1898. Her ancestors on the maternal side lead back to the Mayflower pil- 
grims, and comprise the families of Cooke, White and Warren. Three children 
were born to them; Lucinda E. who married Harmon S. Cronkhite. by whom she 
had two daughters. He having died, she afterward married George C. Wilkius. 
Myron P. was graduated from the Saratoga High School, prepared for college under 
Prof. Otto Von Below, took his degree from Harvard University in 1884, and Har- 



28 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

vard Medical School in 1887. Later he studied in Paris and London and is now a 
rising practitioner of New York city. Adelaide L., residing at home home, grad- 
uated from Temple Grove Seminary and afterwards studied in France and Germany. 



Desjardins, Noe, was born in the county of Two Mountains, district of Montreal, 
Canada, June 16, 1847, a son of Pierre and Thetotice M. (Poirrier) Desjardins, both 
natives of Paris. In 1834 his grandfather, Paul Desjardins, came to Three Rivers, 
Canada, and settled there. He gave an acre of ground to the convent on condition 
that his grandchildren be educated free by the parochial school. Mr. Desjardins 
came to the United States in 1866, settlmg first in Vermont, and in 1870 came 
to Saratoga Springs. On March 19, 1872, he formed a partnership in the black- 
smithing business, but in 1878 assumed the whole business which he has since con- 
ducted. September 24, 1873, he married Margaret E. Powers, and they have four 
children: Azilda F., Marie L., Robert A. and George W. P. Azilda was a teacher 
and taught in the Saratoga schools for five years. She married John M. Nownan 
of Ballston Spa. 

Deyo, Philip, is a son of Israel T. and Jane (Miller) Deyo, and has three sisters: 
Mary E., Elizabeth and Caroline. He has a farm of 140 acres of fine land and a 
good dairy of cows. In politics he is a Republican and has been town collector 
three years. In 1861 he married Sarah M. Gailor, and their living children are 
Frank C. of California, Daniel J. of Wilton, Minnie C. and Jennie B., wife of John 
B. Winney. 



Deyoe, Albert, was born on the farm where he now resides, December 1, 1851, a 
son of Lorenzo and Nancy (Brower) Deyoe. Lorenzo came from Dutchess county 
with his parents and settled in the town of Wilton, near Wheeler's Pond. Lorenzo 
was son of Jacob, who settled in this country in 1826, and who • had seven children : 
Lorenzo, Harvey, Jacob, Peter, Hannah, Esther, Polly, all born in Dutchess county. 
Albert Deyoe was educated in the district school of the town of Stillwater, attend- 
ing school in the winter and assisting his father on the farm summers. After his 
father's death he purchased the homestead and has since added to it until now he 
has 131 acres. He married Alice, daughter of Hugh and Maria (Mcintosh) Holmes, 
and they have one son, Alvie. Mr. Deyoe has been active in town and county 
affairs and in educational interests. 



Deyoe, Chauncey A., was born in Wilton, N. Y., February 10, 1843, a son of Peter 
P. and Eliza J. (Talmadge) Dej'oe. He attended the common schools of Wilton 
and also Fort Edward Collegiate Institute for two years. His early life was spent 
on the farm. In 1867 he entered the law office of Isaac G. Thompson of Troy, where 
he studied law, and nine months later was admitted to the bar. He then taught 
school for a term of years, and in 1876 entered the general mercantile business in 
Stillwater in the old Tucker building and two years later removed to his present 
location. Mr. Deyoe married Ella A., adopted daughter of Simeon and Anna Elms, 
and they have one son, Webster E., a graduate of the Stillwater union school. Mr. 
Deyoe is actively interested in town and county affairs and is at present one of the 
trustees of the village. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 29 

Dolch, Charles C, was boru in Wurtemberg, Germany, February 1, 1862, and 
came to the United States in 1880, settling in Albany, where he learned the baker's 
trade. In 1891 he came to Ballstou and entered the employ of F. J. Quinn and in 
1894 established his present business and is now the leading baker and confectionery 
manufacturer in Ballston Spa. In 1885 he married Carrie Klauser, and they have 
three sons; Harry, William and Arthur. Mr. Dolch is one of the self-made men of 
Saratoga county, taking an intelligent interest in school and church matters, and 
has ever advanced the best interests of his town and town's people. 



Donnelly, William S., a successful young physician of Ketchum's Corners, who 
has been engaged in the practice of medicine since 1883, is the youngest son of 
Arthur and Mary Fitzgerald Donnelly, and was born at Northumberland, Saratoga 
county, December 25, 1859. His father was a native of Ireland and was born in 
1814, and in 1836 left the Emerald Isle and crossed the broad Atlantic, settling in 
Canada. There he married a Canadian girl, who died a short time afterwards, and 
a few years later he removed to the United States, locating in Northumberland, 
where he resided until his death on September 13, 1864 after an active life of half a 
century. He was a blacksmith by trade, having learned his trade in the old country, 
and was employed in a large ship yard in Canada; after coming to Saratoga county 
he successfully conducted the blacksmith business at Bacon Hill for many years. In 
connection with that work he carried on wagon making and repairing. Politically 
he was a Democrat and in religion a member of the Catholic church. In 1844 he 
married Mary, daughter of James Fitzgerald, and they had eight children : John. 
Daniel, Arthur, James, Edward, Thomas, William S. and Susan, who married Dan- 
iel McCarty. Mrs. Donnelly was born in Ireland and died July, 1891, aged sixty- 
nine years. William S. was reared at Northumberland, educated in the public 
schools and by private instructor. He studied medicine with Drs. John A. Moore of 
Saratoga Springs and A. Van Derveerof Albany ; he was graduated from the Albany 
Medical College in 1883, with the degree of M. D., and soon after located at Quaker 
Springs where he was engaged in a successful practice for two years. In 1885 he re- 
moved to Ketchum's Corners where he has since been successfully engaged in pro- 
fessional work. Politically Mr. Donnelly is a staunch Democrat and has been one 
of the local leaders of his party for several years. In the fall of 1893 he was a candi- 
date for State assemblymen on the Democratic ticket and made a good run, but 
found it impossible to overcome the large Republican majority; in 1898 he was 
elected supervisor of the town of Stillwater by a substantial maiorily. He is a mem 
ber of Montgomery I^dge No. .504, F. & A. M. ; Montgomery Chapter No. 257, R. 
A.M., of Stillwater; Wa.shington Coramandery No. 33, Knights Templar, of Saratoga 
Springs; and Oriental Temple, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, of Troy; he is also 
prominently identified with the Patrons of Industry and in 1891 was elected pres- 
ident of the State organization, and at present is the national president, which posi- 
tion he has held since 1895. Mr. Donnelly married Clara B. Howland, daughter of 
David Howland, jr.. of Ketchum's Corners, and they have one son. Charles C. 



Douglass, Daniel S.. was born in Saratoga Springs, September 15, 1827, educated 
in the common schools and was a merchant there for several years. He came to 



30 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Mechanicville in 1860 and has conducted a general life, fire and accident insurance 
and real estate business since. October 15. 18.51, he married Almira M. Morehouse 
of Mechanicville, and they had three children: Ann E. (who died when about a year 
old), Edward M., and Minnie T. (who died in her tenth year). Edward M. is in the 
employ of the government in the department of topography and survey, having 
charge of a large number of men. He married Minnie Z. Childs of North Adams, 
Mass., and they have tv7o children: Willard R. and Helen. Mr. Douglass s father, 
Daniel Douglass, was born in the town of Saratoga Springs in 1797, educated in the 
schools of that day and was a farmer; he married Elizabeth, daughter of Dr. Car- 
penter of Saratoga Springs, and they had five children; Daniel S. (as above), Maria, 
Harriet, Chauncey and Amanda. He died in 1840 and his widow in May, 1844. 
Mrs. Douglass's father, Edward A. Morehouse, was born in Ballston Spa, in 1803, ed- 
ucated in the schools of that day, and married twice, first in 1830 to Almira Middle- 
brook of Ballston, and they had one daughter, Almira M. (as above). Mrs. More- 
house died in 1831, and for his second wife he married Ann E., daughter of Joseph 
Brown. Mr. Morehouse died in 1884 and his wife August 31, 1889. Mr. Douglass 
and wife are members of the M. E. church. In his political choice he is a thorough 
Republican; he has been notary public here many years. 



Dower, Morris, was born in County Waterford, Ireland, June 25, 1843, only child 
of Morris and Nora Dower. His early life was spent with his parents; when about 
nineteen years of age he left his father's home, emigrated to this country and en- 
tered the employ of what is now the West Shore Railroad. He worked as a con- 
tractor on construction of the D. and H. Railroad, Vermont Central and other rail- 
roads. In 1872 he purchased the farm where he now resides and where he has since 
lived and follows general farming. In 1863 Mr. Dower married Margaret, daughter 
of William McCarthy, a native of County Waterford, Ireland, and their children are 
John B., Mary Ellen, William, Edward, James, Anastasia, Thomas, Morris, jr., and 
one deceased. Mr. Dower is a public spirited man and interested in the affairs of 
his town and active in school and educational work, having been trustee of the 
school several times. He is a member of the Catholic church of Ballston Spa, to 
which his family belongs. With the e.Kception of John B. all his sons are interested 
in railroad work. Anastasia, Thomas and Morris M., jr., were born on the farm 
where they now reside on the banks of the Mourning kill. 



Duncan, John C, was born in Greenville, Conn., January 23, 1859. In 1864 his 
parents moved to Buckland, Conn., and in 1867 to Poquonock, Conn. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools, at Mount Pleasant Institute at Amherst, Mas.s. , and at 
Eastman's Commercial College at Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , and has always been a paper 
manufacturer. May 15, 1886, he became the superintendent of the Hudson River 
Water Power and Paper Co. In 1895 its corporate name was changed to the Duncan 
Co. of Mechanicville, N. Y., and he is now superintendent and manager of the con- 
cern. October 29, 1890, he married Anor CoUamer of Ballston, and they have one 
son, John C, jr. Mr. Duncan's father, Thomas Duncan, was born in Scotland in 
1833, educated there and came to the United States in 1851, locating in Greenville, 
Conn. He has always been a paper manufacturer. He has married twice, first to 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 31 

Grace Leslie Yule of Scotland, and they had five children: Thomas E., Elizabeth, 
John C. (as above), Agnes M. and Grace L. Mr. Duncan is treasurer of the Duncan 
Co. and stands at the head of it and now resides in New York city. John C. is 
prominent in Masonic circles and was a promoter of and member of On-da-wa Lodge 
No. 820, of Mechanicville, F. & A. M. ; Capital City Chapter No. 242, R. A. M., of 
Albany, N. Y. ; Saratoga Springs Cryptic Council ; of Washington Commandery of 
Saratoga Springs No. 33, K. T. ; Oriental Temple of Troy, A. A. O. N. M. S. ; Albany 
Sovereign Consistory of Albany, N. Y., thirty-second degree; and in his political 
choice is a staunch Republican. He is vice-president of the Manufacturers' National 
Bank of Mechanicville. 



Dunlop, John J., M. D. , son of Jackson and Mary J. (Clark) Dunlop, was born in 
the county of Monaghan, Ireland, August 2, 1818. The doctor's parents were both 
of Scotch descent. His father was at an early age appointed by the government as 
stipendiary magistrate, and held the office up to 1827, the time of his death. He 
received his early education and studied medicine in his native country, and in 1840 
came to the United States, where he continued his medical education in the Univer- 
sities of Buffalo and New York, graduating from the latter institution m 18-54, and 
for the past forty years has practiced medicine in Waterford and vicinty. Dr. Dun- 
lop is a member of the New York Medical Association and of the Medical Society of 
Troy and vicinity. He is also a member of Clinton Lodge No. 140, F. & A. M. ; of 
Chapter No. 169, R. A. M., Waterford, and of Apollo Commandery No. l.'j, K. T., of 
Troy, N. Y. 



Dunn, Francis J., was born in Hadley, N. Y., February 19, 185S, a son of Joseph 
and Sarah (Parker) Dunn, natives of Ireland. Joseph came with the parents to 
Brooklyn about 1835. His wife was a daughter of James Parker, an early settler of 
Orange county. Francis J. was educated in the common schools and was graduated 
from Eastman's Business College in 1883, and has since been engaged as bookkeeper 
for A, A. Summer of New York city. In 1886 Mr. Dunn married Martha Gillespie, 
and they have three children: Thomas G., Sarah P., and Gertrude M. In politics 
Mr. Dunn is a Republican, and is now serving as supervisor of Hadley, in his seventh 
year, and supports the Presbyterian church at Conklingville. 



Dunston, R. E., general manager of the Saratoga Traction Co , is a native of Eng- 
land, and there studied civil and electrical engineering, in which lines he was em- 
ployed for some years before coming to America. He is an expert electrician and a 
member of the Institution of Civil Engineers of London, England, and of the Amer- 
ican Society of Electrical Engineers. He was appointed general manager of the 
Saratoga Traction Company iu May, 1897, and in December, 1897, was made super- 
intendent of the Saratoga Northern Railroad. The Saratoga Traction Company 
operates the electric road from Saratoga Springs to Saratoga Lake and from Saratoga 
Springs to the Geysers. The original projectors of the road received their charter 
on July 8, 1889, and built the last named branch ; on June 30, 1892, the road was 
purchased by the Union Electric Railway Co., who built the lake division. In June, 
1896, the present company acquired the property, and it is their intention iu the near 



32 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

future to extend the Geyser division to Ballston Spa and possibly to Mechanicville. 
The Saratoga Northern Railway has acquired the property and franchise of the old 
Mt. McGregor Railway, which is at present a narrow gauge steam road, and it is 
their intention to equip the same electrically, changing the gauge to four feet eight 
and one-half inches, an,d extend it to the village o£ Glens Falls, twenty-two miles 
north of Saratoga. When this is done a connecting link will be built joining the 
tracks of the Traction Company with those of the Northern road. Mr. Charles H. 
Davis of New York is the chief engineer of both these enterprises, which is a guaran- 
tee that Saratoga county will soon be second to none in the matter of trolley roads. 



Durant, Rev. William, D. D., pastor of the First Presbyterian church of Saratoga 
Springs, was born in Albany, August 21, 1846, a son of William Clark and Ann 
Elizabeth (White) Durant. His father, a successful manufacturer of flour in Albany, 
N. Y., and Milwaukee, Wis., was a resident of Albany for many years and was 
known as a leading business man. The family is of old Puritan stock, tracing 
their descent from William Durant, who was in Boston, Mass., 1640, ruling elder of 
Puritan colony in Virginia, and, when exiled by Governor Berkley, led colony into 
Maryland and founded Providence, which is now Annapolis; became from Corn- 
wall, England ; (2) George. (3) Edward, (4) Edward, (5) Edward, (6) Thomas, (7) Ed- 
ward, (8) William C, and (9) William. Dr. Durant attended the Albany private 
schools and graduated from the Albany Academy in 1864, in the same year he en- 
tered Yale and received the degree A. B. in 1868. During the following year he 
made a Continental, Egyptian and Palestine trip and upon his return entered Prince- 
ton Theological Seminary, from which he was graduated in 1872. In December, 
1873, he was ordained and installed as pastor of the Sixth Presbyterian church of 
Albany; he continued with this charge until 1.S82, when he became pastor of the 
First Presbyterian church of Morristown, N. J. In the spring of 1887 he accepted 
a call to the Boundary Avenue Presbyterian church at Baltimore, Md., where he 
remained until 1893, in which year he made an extended European tour and in Feb- 
ruary, 1893, was installed as pastor of the First Presbyterian church of Saratoga 
Springs. In 1884 the degree of D. D. was conferred upon him by Union College. 
Dr. Durant has been a frequent contributor to the press and has also edited the 
writings of the late Dr. Charles Hodge of Princeton on " Church Polity" (Scribner, 
1878), and a compilation of the " Records and Genealogies" of the First Presbyterian 
church of Morristown, N. J. He is a pulpit orator of ability and a man of liberal 
education. For his first wife Dr. Durant married in July, 1878, Elizabeth F. Stan- 
tial and they have one son, William Clark Durant. In 1887 Dr. Durant married 
Lucy B. Stantial, sister of his first wife, and they have one daughter, Lois Pierson 
Durant. 



Durkee, Elmer E., was born in Fort Edward, January 29, 1868, a son of Dewitt M. 
and Mary E. (Williams) Durkee. He was educated in the schools of his native place 
and at Glens Falls Academy. In 1891 he embarked in the coal business in Saratoga 
Springs and in 1893 formed the partnership of Durkee &■ Monlanye. On May 18, 
1893, Mr. Durkee married Luella Amy Humeston, and they have two children: Ethel 
E. and Lewis W. In the autumn of 1892 Mr. Durkee joined the Citizens Corps, 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 33 

now Company L, Second Regiment, N. Y. Vo]s., and when President McKinley 
called for volunteers for the Spanish-American war he went to the front with his 
company as private and June 7th was promoted to quartermaster-sergeant, in which 
capacity he served until mustered out October 20, 1898. 



L)ye. R. G., was born February 8, 1854, a son of Electus Dye, a native of western 
New York, who came to Saratoga county in 1850, where he engaged in the cooperage 
business for a few years and served as deputy sheriflf. He married Rosanna Hubball 
and lived an active, upright life and was noted for his sterling integrity; he died in 
1895 in his eighty-third year. R. G. Dye was educated in the public schools and was 
engaged in the paper collar works for eighteen years. In 1881 he organized the firm 
of Dye Brothers, which is known as R. G. Dye & Co., general merchants. In 1884 
Mr. Dye married Elizabeth, daughter of Thomas Osborn. Mr. Dye is one of the 
self-made men of his town, taking an active interest in school and church matters 
and has ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 



Eddy, George B., was born in the town of Moreau, Saratoga county, August 18, 
1853, a son of David H. and Anna J. Eddy, and lived on the farm until twenty-two 
)'ears of age. After leaving the farm he went west and spent two years in Iowa, in 
the live stock e.\change, and returning east spent two years in Schuylerville in the 
lumber and coal business with Sydney Seeley. In 1883 he came to Saratoga Springs 
and established his present business, bakery and confectionery, wholesale and re- 
tail, which is the leading one in its line in Saratoga county. On October 13, 1874, 
Mr. Eddy married Anna Buckbee, daughter of Mahlon Buckbee of Moreau, and 
their living children are Franklin G., Bertha A. and George B., jr. Franklin G. 
Eddy is superintendent of the confectionery manufacturing department of the busi- 
ness. The Eddy family is not only an old one in America, but is traceable back to 
the year 1500 in England. One of Mr. Eddy's ancestors, in the seventh generation 
back, was vicar of Cranebrook, England, fifty years, from 1580 to 1630. His sons 
Samuel and John, with their sister Abigail, came to America in the ship Handmaid 
in 1630, Samuel settling in Massachusetts and became the progenitor of this branch 
of the Eddy family. 

Eddy, John M., one of the most prominent agriculturalists of Saratoga county, 
was born in Saratoga Springs, March 6, 1838, and is a son of John W. and Hannah 
(Marshall) Eddy. Mr. Eddy is of English ancestry, being descended from John 
Eddy, who emigrated from England in 1630, and settled in Watertown, Mass. He 
made the voyage on the ship " Handmaid" and landed at Plymouth. John Eddy, 
grandfather of our subject, was an early settler of Saratoga county, and the family 
have always been prominently identified with the growth and development of her 
resources. John M. Eddy received his early education in the district schools, later 
attending the Saratoga High School, and subsequently taught for three terms, after 
which he established a grocery business in Saratoga Springs. One year later he re- 
turned to farming pursuits, which he has since continued with marked success. As 
a breeder of high grade stock he is best known, and the cow " Sweet Ada," one of 
his herd of Guernsys, succeeded in winning first prize in the ninety day sweepstake 



34 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

competition at the World's Fair in 1893. The " Eddy" farm has been in the pos- 
session of his family since 1810, and is one of the most productive in this region. 
Mr. Eddy operates an extensive dairy in connection, and his products are considered 
the standard of excellence. His patronage is among those requiring the best in 
quality, and many of his patrons are of long years' standing. In 1873 he married 
Laura B., daughter of Henry Hunter of Ketchum's Corners, and they have three 
children; Harry W., Carrie Marshall and Hannah Laura. 



Eede, C. W., was born in the county of Essex. Canada, February 15, 1847, and 
came to the United States in 1878, locating in Rochester, N. Y. , and after graduat- 
ing from the Baptist Theological Seminary spent two years in the west as a mission- 
ary, then took a two years' post-graduate course in the Baptist Union Theological 
Seminary at Chicago, from which he was graduated with the degree of B. D. in 
1886. In 1887 he came to Ballston and engaged in newspaper work. In 1894 he 
purchased his present coal and wood business at No. 9 Milton avenue, formerly con- 
ducted by Samuel Gould. He also purchased the Gould mansion. No. 6 Milton 
avenue, where he now lives. In 1886 he married Emma A., daughter of Dr. H. L. 
Grose, and they have one son and three daughters: Arner G., Edith E., Helen H. 
and Mabel. Mr. Eede is one of the conservative men of his town, who has ever re- 
ceived and merited the respect of his associates. 



Ellsworth, Daniel W., was born in Troy, N. Y., October 17, 1837, a son of Russell 
and Pamelia (Morey) Ellsworth. Russell came from Hartford, Conn., and w-as a 
descendant of Oliver Ellsworth, chief justice of the United States. Pamelia was a 
daughter of Deacon Thomas Morey, oneof the founders of the Yellow church, located 
in the southern central partof the town. Deacon Thomas Morey .settled in the town 
of Stillwater about 1780 and followed farming and lumbering. Russell Ellsworth by 
trade was a stoneware manufacturer, which business he followed in his younger days. 
He enlisted in the war of 1812 and after the war settled in Troy, where he worked 
at his trade until 1840, then removed to Stillwater and followed farming until his 
death in 1864. Daniel W. Ellsworth was educated in the common schools of the 
town and when eighteen years of age started in life for himself as a traveling sales- 
man, which he followed for three years, when he moved to Indiana and entered the 
employ of the Ohio & Mississippi railroad for about one year. He then returned to 
Stillwater, since which time he has followed farming, also cider and vinegar man- 
ufacturing. Mr. Ellsworth married Pamelia, daughter of John R. and Ann Esmond 
Myers, and they have four children: John R., George E., Lewis J. and Grace. Mr. 
Ellsworth has been active in politics and has served as highway commissioner; he is 
also active in educational w^ork. 



Elms, Charles, sr. , was born in the township of Stillwater, February 8, 1839, ed- 
ucated in the district schools and was by occupation a farmer. He vv-as one of the 
first men that enlisted from the township of Stillwater in Co. F, 30th Infantry N. Y. 
Vols., and was honorably discharged June 17, 1863. December 23, 1864, he married 
Maria Bradt of Albany, N. Y., and they had eight children: Alfred H., Nellie E., 
Irving H., Howard G., Lydia, Charles VV., jr., Marvin and Kittie (twnns). Alfred 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 35 

H. married Mary Francisco of Stillwater; Nellie E. married Augustus J. Buffington 
and they had two children: Blanche and Earl; Mrs. Buffington died in February, 
1898. Irving H. is a soldier in the 13th U. S. Infantry, and was in the battle of San 
Juan, Santiago de Cuba. Howard G. married Hattie Duffney, June 32, 1898. The 
two younger reside at home. Mr. Elms's father, Alfred Elms, was born in Mechanic- 
ville in February, 1798, educated in the schools of his day and married Lydia Clem- 
ents of the town of Stillwater, and they had three children; Charles (as above), Hen- 
rietta and John, who died in Virginia in 1871. His grandfather, Elkenah Elms, was 
born in Massachusetts and was a soldier at Bemis Heights in the Revolutionary war. 
Mr. Elms is a member of Elmer E. Ellsworth Post of ilechaaicville. No. 619, G. A. 
R., department of New York, and holds the office of officer of the day. 



Englehart, George L., was born at West Milton, June 21, 1866, son of Leonard and 
Eva (King) Englehart. He has always resided here and is one of the prominent 
young men of the place. Mr. Englehart attended the village school, which employed 
two teachers and maintained an excellent standard, until the age of fifteen, when he 
was enrolled for two years at the Chestnut Grove Seminary, a school located in the 
same village, successfully conducted by Mrs. Harriet Stilwell Young. After leaving 
school Mr. Englehart worked on his father's farm, which he now owns and conducts, 
besides being engaged in stock dealing and wholesale butchering.. He is a staunch 
Republican and although not politically aspiring has held town office and is person- 
ally interested in town, county and State afifairs. Mr. Englehart was married in 
June, 1887, to Miss Elizabeth Tanner, one of a pair of twin daughters born to Clark 
and Abbie (Gardner) Tanner, at Northampton, Fulton county, September 12, 1866. 
Mrs. Englehart's father is a descendant of the New England families which were the 
pioneer settlers of the town of Day, Saratoga county, typical Yankee •' Down-easters." 
Iler mother's family were descendants of the old Dutch Knickerbockers, who settled 
the Hudson valley. Among them were the Van Buskirks, Van Guyslings, Clough, 
Perry and Gardner families. Her great-grandfathers, of both branches of the family 
tree, were Revolutionary soldiers, one being killed in the Long Island campaign. 
Mrs. Englehart was a school teacher until her marriage. She comes of a pedagog- 
ical line, her father and mother, four sisters, and two brothers having followed this 
vocation, also an aunt and uncle, and a granduncle. Mrs. Englehart is quite literary 
in her tastes and has devoted some time since her marriage to this talent. She is 
the local correspondent for several county newspapers; al.so special representative 
of the American Agriculturist, and has written several historical articles and essays 
of timely note and interest. Mrs. Englehart is a leader in church work and social 
circles and an able helpmeet for her husband in his business affairs. The home of 
Mr. and Mrs. Englehart is one of the best of the town and famous for its charming 
hostess and delightful hospitality. 



Ensign, George A. (deceased), was born in 1828, a son of Charles and Sally (Sey- 
mour) Ensign. He was educated in the common schools of the town of Stillwater 
and started in life for himself when sixteen years of age, when he went to Troy, N. 
Y. , where he worked in a foundry as a moulder, and through economy and industry 
accumulated §1,000, which he used to pay the indebtedness against the old home- 



36 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

stead. When about twenty-three years of age he commenced buying produce 
through Saratoga and Washington counties and shipping to New York Philadelphia 
and other southern markets, which business he carried on until his death, which 
occurred February 34, 1884. On the old homstead he started the manafacture of 
drain tile in 1867. was also in partnership with his brother in running the old home- 
stead farm, but purchased his brother's interest in 1872. His winters he spent in 
New York city attending to the produce business, also as an auctioneer. He was 
supervisor of the town of Stillwater, also a candidate for the State Assembly. He 
was a very benevolent man, always ready to help a friend and neighbor. He mar- 
ried Sarah E., daughter of Daniel Cleaveland and Lois Warren, and they had one 
son, George A., who is about to graduate from Union College as a civil engineer. 
He has spent some time in the employ of the State as an engineer. Ezekiel 
Ensign, grandfather of Charles Ensign, came from Holland and purchased a 
large tract of land on both sides of the Hudson, coming from New York by boat to 
Albany, from which place they used covered wagons in which they lived while they 
were constructing their home of logs, which was completed in 1732. This they lived 
in until the present home was completed in 1753. George was a member of Mont- 
gomery Lodge No. 504, Free and Accepted Masons of Stillwater. 



Estabrook, Nathaniel, was born in the town of Greenfield, August 5, 1821, a son 
of Thomas Estabrook, who was one of the prominent men of his town. Mr. Esta- 
brook was one of the prominent men of his town, holding the position of master 
mechanic of the D. & H. Railroad Co., at Saratoga. He married Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Henry D. and Electa Abel Curtis, and they had one daughter, Estelle. Mr. 
Estabrook's death in 1880 was a loss not only to his family, but to all who knew him. 
Of him it can well be said "an honest man is the noblest work of God." 



Fitchett, Irving P., was born in Poughkeepsie, N. Y. , January 29, 1867, and ed- 
ucated in the common schools there. He has been in the drug business since 1878, 
and came to Saratoga Springs in 1889. To his abdity as a pharmacist he adds the 
advantage of a five years' study of medicine, having taken up that course while in 
the drug business; but instead of attending college, went into the drug busmess on 
his own account, intending to take up the study later on. He has one of the best 
equipped drug stores in the country and carries many specialties, including surgical 
appliances and physicians' supplies. Mr. Fitchett is regarded as one of Saratoga's 
most enterprising and successful business men. 



Flynn, James, was born in County Waterford, Ireland, March 18, 1833, educated in 
their schools, and came to the United States with his mother, brother and sister in 
1850, locating first in Quaker Springs, afterwards in Stillwater and in 18.52 located 
permanently in Mechanicville. Mr. Flynn has had a variety of occupations, and has 
dealt in real estate extensively and now lives a retired life. In 1861 he married 
Rossana Kearney of Troy, N. Y., and they had eight children: Maryann, Ellen, 
Catherine, Margaret, Annie, Edward, Rossanna and James, jr. Ellen married 
Thomas Finnigan, and they had one son, Edward, who died at the age of eight 
months; Margaret married John Cummings, and they had two children, Edward and 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 37 

Rossanna. Mrs. Cummings died April 17, 1898. Edward was a student in St. 
Augustine Catholic College near Philadelphia, and is now a Catholic priest at Atlantic 
City, N. J. James, jr., died in August, 1897. Mr. Flynn was the first Irish Catholic 
poormaster in Mechanicville; he has also been an alderman in the board of trustees 
and was village assessor two terms. In his political choice he is a thorough Demo- 
crat. The family are members of St. Paul's Roman Catholic church. 



Foley, Hon. John, was born in County Waterford, Ireland, about 1848, and came 
to America in 18.53. He was educated in the public schools of Saratoga and at Prof. 
A. J. Robb's Academy, and early determined upon law as his life profession. In 
pursuance of this decision he entered the law office of Hon. L. B. Pike, and in due 
time was admitted to the bar, and has continued to practice ever since. He held 
various village and town offices. He was a member of the Board of Education of 
Saratoga for nine years, the last three of which he was president. He took a deep 
interest in the schools and devoted much time and labor to their advancement. He 
was elected district attorney of Saratoga county in 1883 and served out his term. 
He was renominated for the same office in 1886 but declined the honor. He was 
tendered the Democratic nomination for Congress the same year but he refused to 
run. In 1887 he was elected State senator for the then Eighteenth district, compris 
ing the counties of Saratoga, Schenectady, Montgomery, Fulton and Hamilton. Dur- 
ing his term he was a member of various committees, among them being judiciary, 
villages and taxation. He was urged to accept a renomination in 1889, but could not 
be induced to make the canvass. In 1893 Mr. Foley was appointed by Governor 
Flower chief executive officer of New York State at the World's Fair in Chicago to 
succeed Senator Donald McNaughton. deceased. He was a member of the Demo- 
cratic State Committee for several years; a delegate to the Democratic National Con- 
vention at Chicago in 1892. and was frequently a delegate to State, congressional, 
senatorial and county conventions. Mr. Foley is president of the Citizens' National 
Bank of Saratoga Springs, a prosperous institution. 



Ford, John W., was born in the town of Edinburgh, Saratoga county, N. Y., May 
15, 1848, and he obtained his education in the public schools and also by private 
tutor. His early days were spent on the farm. In the year 1868 he began a profes- 
sional life, and studied civil engineering with D. A. Van Auken, of Cohoes, N. Y. 
He followed this, his chosen profession, in the employ of the Cohoes Water Co., until 
1883, when he came to Waterford and embarked in the knit goods business, in com- 
pany with a Mr. Pynes, under the firm name of Ford & Pynes, which was dissolved 
by mutual consent, Mr. Ford selling his interest to his late partner in the year 1892. 
Shortly afterward the Ford Manufacturing Co. was organized in the same line of 
goods, a joint stock concern, with John W. Ford as president and treasurer. They em- 
ploy 250 operators, with an output of $250,000. In the year 1873 Mr. Ford married 
Minnie S. Peverly, of Waterford, N. Y. , and they had two children, Helen and Pev- 
erly. Mr. Ford's father, John, was born in Fulton county, N. Y., in the year 1809, 
and was educated in the schools of that early day. He married Vilda M. Wheeler, 
of Saratoga county, and they had eleven children. Mrs. Vilda M. Ford died in 1890, 
her husband surviving her at this date, 1898. Mrs. John W. Ford's father, Lidell 



38 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Peverly, was born in New Castle, England. He married Margaret Smith of his 
native place, and they had seven children, the eldest being born in England. They 
came to the United States and located in Waterford. Mr. Ford is a member of 
Clinton Lodge No. 140, F. & A. M., of Waterford, N. Y. He is president of the 
Board of Education, of which he has been a member for the past ten years. Mr. 
and Mrs. Ford are members of the Presbyterian church of this place. Ancestry of 
the family is English on both sides. 



Formel, Julius Z., was born in the city of Santiago, Cuba, and received his literary 
education there and at Pennington Institute, Ne\v Jersey, having taken his degree 
of B. A. in Havana prior to coming to the United States, He then studied in the 
University of Pennsylvania and the New York College of Pharmacy, from which he 
graduated in 1872, and afterward opened a drug store in New York city, which he 
conducted for several years. In 1889 he came to Saratoga Springs and engaged in 
the establishment of a plant for the extraction of carbonic acid gas from the waters 
of the Seltzer spring. He established the Saratoga Carbonic Acid Gas Co. and is 
one of the stockholders of that concern. At present he is vice-president and general 
manager of the Champion Carbonic Acid Gas Co., which he organized. This busi- 
ness has assumed a flattering magnitude, owing to the talent and energy of Mr. J. 
Z. Formel. This new industry has been of great benefit to Saratoga Springs. He 
has perfected two patents, one to purify the gas and another to purify the waters, 
by a mechanical process, without abstracting any of their fine qualities or adding 
any foreign ingredients to them. By this process the water can be kept for any 
length of time as fresh as when it leaves the spring. Mr. Formel is an ardent Cuban 
patriot, and has always been a warm friend and aid to the Cuban Junta. Mr. Formel 
married first Margaret Byron, who died, leaving two children; Julius and Bella. 
He married second, Cordelia E. Heraghty, daughter of Peter Heraghty, and their 
children are Adrian, Fernando, Madeleine, Eugenie, Leonora, Inez and Theodora. 



Fort, Cornelius M., was born at Fort's Ferry, Albany county, N. Y., November 11, 
1845 (Fort's Ferry was named after this family at an early date), was educated in 
the district schools, one term at Fort Edward Institute and Troy Commercial Col- 
lege. He was a clerk in different stores and came to Mechanicville in 1869, where 
he was a clerk in a general store six years. In 1875 he began business for himself 
and had two changes with different partners. In 1878 he began to conduct a gen- 
eral store in his present location, which by industry, sobriety and fair dealing has 
been very successful. September 2, 1873, he married Magdalene 'V'an Derwerken of 
the township of Stillwater, and they have three children: Ida E., Sidney 'V. and 
Florence M. Ida E. married Rev. George M. Moody, who is a clergyman in the 
Methodist Episcopal church, and they have one son, Cornelius S. Sidney V. is a 
clerk in his father's store. Florence M. is a student in the Mechanicville Union Free 
School. Mr. Fort's father, Michael Fort, was born at the old home in 1809, and 
owned a half interest in Fort's Ferry and was a farmer by occupation. He married 
Helen Van Zandt and they had eight children: John, Gilbert (who was drowned at 
the age of twelve years), Cornelius M. (as above), Sarah (died in infancy), Anna M., 
Levinus, Edgar and Gertrude. Michael Fort died in January, 1870, and his widow 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 39 

in 1896. Mr. and Mrs. Fort are members of the M. E. church; he has been steward 
and trustee for many years. He is a charter member of On-da-wa Lodge No. 820, 
F. & A. M., Montgomery Chapter No. 257, R. A. M., Apollo Commaudery No. 15, 
K. T. , and in his political choice is a Prohibitionist. 



Fort, John L., was born in Schaghticoke, Rensselaer county, N. Y., June 1, 1830, 
a son of Tunis and Delia (Birch) Fort. Tunis Fort was a native of Rensselaer 
county, and died in Providence in 1850: his wife died in Galway about 1886. John 
L. was educated in the common schools and carries on farming, having a farm in 
Galway of one hundred and sixty acres, also one in Charlton, upon which his son 
lives. In 1850 he married Johannah Hart, and their children are Rosetta, Sarah E., 
George H., Carmi and John L. , jr. George H. and Rosetta are engaged in teaching; 
John L., jr., was educated at Poultuey, Vt., and Burlington College and for eight 
years has been engaged in the ministry; Sarah E. married Eugene Seaman, a 
farmer two miles south of Ballston; Carmi is a farmer at west Charlton. 



Fry, Dewitt C, was born in Lafayette, Onondaga county, N. Y., November 13, 
1841, and obtained his education in the common schools and Cortland Academy, in 
early life following the occupation of a farmer. He came to Saratoga county in 1806 
and in 1874 went to Cohoes, Albany county, where he conducted a grocery for a 
number of years, and then came to Crescent in 1896, when he embarked in the hotel 
business successfully. November 11, 1866, he married Rebecca E. Freeman, of 
Halfmoon, and they have two children: Byron, who assists his father in his busi- 
ness, and Blanch M., who married Cooley P. Greene, now of Cohoes, N. Y., and they 
have one son, Elwin. Mr. Fry's father, Jeremiah, was born in Saratoga county, N. 
Y. (in Waterford township), in the year 1808, a farmer, and was educated in the 
schools of his day. He married Catherme Shear, of that locality, and they had 
seven children: George, Mary, Harriet (deceased). Dewitt C. (as above) Edward, 
Jerome and Alfred, the three last named being dead. Mr. Fry died in 1888 and his 
widow m 1897. Mrs. Fry's father. Patterson Freeman, was born in Greenwich, 
Saratoga county, in the year 1807, and was educated in the schools of his day. He 
married Hannah Burtis, of the town of Halfmoon, and they had five children: Burtis, 
Heman. Piatt V., Phoebe and Rebecca E , as above. Mr. Freeman died in 1884 and 
his wife in 1882. Mr. Fry in his political choice is a thorough Republican. The an- 
cestry of the family is Dutch and English. 



Fuller, Edward H., son of Samuel Washington andCharlotte Amelia (Benson) Ful- 
ler, was born in Albany, but has resided in Saratoga Springs since 1846. He en- 
listed in Company F, Thirtieth New York Infantry, and subsequently with the cele- 
brated Seventy-seventh New York in August, 1862. He was wounded at Mary's 
Heights May 3, 1863, and after his recovery nine months later was detailed to the 
war department at Washington in Adjutant-General Breek's office. Since the war 
Mr. Fuller has been a prominent G. A. R. man, and has been commander of Post 
"Wheeler for three years. Mr. Fuller is one of the prominent dealers in paints and 
painter's supplies in Saratoga, the business having been established by his father, 
with whom Mr. Fuller was for many years a partner. Mr. Fuller's father was a 



40 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

noted painter of high artistic skill, and was also a talented musician; he was born 
December 35, 1816, and died June 3, 1895. 



Fuller, Frank A., was born at Northville, October 19, 1848, a son of -Sylvenus and 
Sylvia (Oakley) Fuller, who had three children: Frank A., Mary and one who died 
in infancy. Sylvenus married a second time, Mary Furman, and they had two chil- 
dren: Mary Belle and Ida. Frank A. was educated in the schools of Northville and 
Edinburgh. His early life was spent on the farm with his father, attending school 
winters and assisting his father on the farm summers. When ten years of age he 
moved with his parents to Edinburgh, and in 1869 his father sold his farm and moved 
to the town of Ballston, where they now live, and where Frank A. carries on farm- 
ing, also runs a mail route from Ballston Lake to Ballston Center. In 1875 Mr. Ful- 
ler married Mary O., daughter of Hibbard and Elizabeth Morehouse, and their chil- 
dren are Viola, Ida, Arthur, Charles. Sylvia, and Belle, all born in the town of Balls- 
ton. Mr. Fuller is actively interested in town and county affairs and school and 
educational work; has been trustee, al.so clerk of the schools for ten years. Jonathan 
Fuller was a son of one of the three brothers who came from England and settled at 
Bennington, Vt., and moved to Northville when there were but three houses in the 
village. He was father of Sylvenus, and grandfather of Frank A. Fuller. 



Funson, Thomas, and the Fuuson Brothers. — The subjects of this .sketch are from 
among the best class of citizens of Saratoga county. They are the sons of Robert 
and Elizabeth Virtue Funson, and the family are of north of Ireland e.Ktraction, and 
maintained the characteristics of thrift and enterprise so peculiar to that people. 
Robert Funson's father was by trade a blacksmith, and carried on the business until 
his death in 1882. Thomas, the eldest, was born in 1850, and learned the black- 
smith's trade with his father and worked with him until his father's death. Mr. Fun- 
son still owns and carries on the business at Grangerville, although his time is 
mostly given up to the buymg of wool and farm produce. He spends his winters in 
New York handling potatoes, apples and other farm products. Some time ago he 
paid a visit to Ireland and pleasantly spent a few months in visiting the scenes fa- 
miliar to his ancestry ; he also extended his trip to England, visiting London and 
other important cities. Like his brother, Mr. Funson passes without question in the 
community where he has been so long and favorably known. Of the other brothers, 
Robert, William and Samuel are connected with the well-known market of Funson 
Brothers at Schuylerville, the first two as proprietors and Samuel as an employee. 
The business, which is extensive, was established by Robert in 1881, who succeeded 
Seward Winnie. William was admitted in 1883. Robert was formerly a blacksmith, 
while William was a farmer and railroad man. Samuel, who is the youngest, was 
born in 1861. There is one sister, Elizabeth, widow of Henry Funson of Greenwich, 
Conn. 



Gardiner, Henry L., was born in Greenfield, November 2, 1818, a son of Howell 
G. Gardiner, a native of East Hampton, L. I., who came to Greenfield in 1798, and 
in 1806 bought the farm Henry L. now owns; there Howell G. died February 26, 
1866. Howell Gardiner was justice of the town for twenty years, and three times a 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 41 

member of assembly. He left two sons and two daughters. Henry L. and sisters 
were educated in the common schools and at Bennington Seminary, Vermont. Henry 
L. is a farmer and owns 106 acres of land. In 1843 he married Lydia Jane Darrow 
and they have three daughters, all living and married. In politics Mr. Gardiner is 
a Democrat, but not an aspirant to office. He is the seventh in line of the Gardi- 
ners in the United States, dating back to Lyon Gardmer, who bought Gardiner's 
Island of the Indians in 1636, and said island has been held by the Gardmer race 
ever since. Juliet, sister of Mr. Gardiner, lives with him, aged ninety-one years; 
she taught school for over fifty years. Mrs. H. L. Gardiner died in March, 1S7G, 
leaving three daughters; Harriet, Phebe and Mary. 



Gaylor, William H., was born in Saratoga county, N. Y., in 1852, a son of Gideon 
Gaylor, and was educated m the public schools of the village. His first business en- 
terprise was a grocery store, which he conducted for five years and since that period 
has been known as one of the leading contractors of the county, and also carried on 
a livery business. Mr. Gaylor is senior member of the firm of Gaylor & Van Den- 
burg, contractors and owners of e.xtensive stone quarries. Mr. Gaylor is a member 
of the Odd Fellows, the Insurance Union, and the A. O. U. W. He has been trustee 
of the village of Saratoga Springs for six years. In 1873 he married Miss Arnold, 
daughter of Henry Arnold, and they have two children; Frederick and Maud. 



George, Francis, was born near East Gal way, Saratoga county, N. Y., May 17, 
1818, a son of Thomas and Abigail (Wyley) George. Thomas George came from 
Maine in an early day, served in the war of 1812, and was a singing master and 
dressed and colored cloth. The parents of Abigail Wyley George came from Ston- 
ington, Conn., after the Revolution. Thomas George and wife had two children, 
Francis only surviving. The latter was educated in the common schools and has 
been quite a student and reader. He has made his own property and has bought 
and sold land. He owns a farm of twenty acres where he has lived for twentj'-two 
years. He spent thirty-five years of his life in Glenville, Schenectady county. He 
has never married. He has lived an honest and just life, and regards truth the 
highest object of his ambition. 



Gick, Frank, was born in the village of Saratoga Springs, August 20, 1865, a son 
of Michael and Catherine (Maset) Gick, natives of Germany, who came to Saratoga 
Springs in September, 1848. He was educated in the public and grammar schools 
of Saratoga Springs and Fort Edward Collegiate Institute, from which he was grad- 
uated in June, 1885, and the Albany Law School, from which he was graduated with 
the degree of LL.B. in June, 1894, Mr. Gick read law in the office of C. S. & C. C. 
Lester and was admitted to the bar at the general term held in Saratoga Springs, 
September 13, 1894. Previous to completing his law studies Mr. Gick was principal 
of the new graded school at Hadley, N. Y. , for two years, and of the public school at 
Conklingville, N. Y. , for one year. In 1888 he passed the State board at Albany and 
was awarded a State teacher's certificate, issued by A. S. Draper, state superinten- 
dent. Mr. Gick is a member of the Patrons of Industry and of the Jeffersonian 
Democratic Club. He has been practicing law successfully since his admission to 



42 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tile bar and was elected justice of the peace on the Democratic ticket in March, 1890, 
and took office January 1, 1897. He was acting police justice during the final illness 
of Judge Swart. 



Glavin, James H., was born in Waterford, N. Y. , December 16, 1863, educated in 
the public schools, and began his business life as a grocer's clerk. In 1884 he began 
the grocery business for himself in his present location, corner of Broad and Third 
streets, and by square dealing and integrity has increased his clerical force from one 
to six clerks with supernumeraries at extra busy times. In 1893 he was elected town 
clerk, re-elected in 1894 and 1896, the last two terms being two years each. In 1898 
he was elected supervisor by a majority of 115 in the strongest Republican township 
in the county. Mr. Glavin's father, Patrick Glavin, was born at Rock City, County 
Cork, Ireland, and came to the United States with his parents when a boy, locating 
at Waterford. He married Mary McCarthy, and they had six children, two died in 
infancy, and the others are Thomas H., James H., Anna M., and Mary E., who died 
at the age of twenty-three years. Mr. Glavin died in 1873 and his widow in 1895. 

Goldsmith, Benjamin Judah was born in Russia, Poland, March 15, 1840. He 
came to the United States in 1857, settling first in New York, where he learned the 
cigarmaker's trade. He remained in that city until 1863, when he removed to Sar- 
atoga Springs, and was engaged in the manufacture of cigars there from 1865 to 1873. 
In the latter year he established himself in the wine, liquor and cigar business. Mr. 
Goldsmith is a member of the board of directors of the First National Bank of Sara- 
toga Springs. N. Y. He has been twice married; his first wife was Mary J. Howe, 
who died in 1873, leaving one daughter, Nina; and his second wife was Eliza Cohn, 
and they have one son, Irving Goldsmith. 



(ioodland, Mrs. Ann, on July 7, 1801, married Randall B. Saunders, who was born 
in Albany, N. Y. , September 6, 1823. Mrs. Goodland was born in 1833, and they 
had two children; Sarah A., and Mary I., who died in infancy. Mr. Saunders died 
June 5, 1877, mourned by a bereaved wife and daughter. On February 15, 1876, 
Sarah A. married Herman Weber of the township of Halfmoon, who was born in the 
city of Cohoes They have had seven children; Janette L., Randall B. S., Lillian 
M. v., Sarah A., Herman (who died in infancy), Harold M. and Lenora W. Mr. 
Weber carries on the farm. Mrs. Goodland's father, Isaac Van Meeter, was born in 
Holland and came to the United States when a young man. He married Janette 
Lloyd, who was born in England, and they had four children. Both Mr. and Mrs. 
Van Meeter are dead. Mrs. Goodland is a member of the Presbyterian church ; 
Mrs. Weber and family are members of the Episcopal church. 



Granger, William H., one of the public spirited and enterprising men of Saratoga 
Springs, was born in that place September 5, 1840, a son of James A. and Charlotte 
(Bullard) Granger. Mr. Granger's grandfather, Roswell Granger, was a native of 
Massachusetts, and settled in Grangerville, Saratoga county, giving the place its 
name. He and his brother were among the early settlers and carried on a lumber 
business as well as a grist mill and general store. William H. Granger was educated 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 43 

in the common schools and learned the harness maker's trade, which he followed for 
a short time and then engaged in farming, which occupation he pursued until 1809, 
when he became connected with the Saratoga Baggage Express Co., and purchased 
that business in 1870. This business has assumed large proportions under his able 
management, and Mr. Granger has at the same time grown into the business and 
public life of Saratoga Springs until he is a prominent factor therein. He has always 
taken great interest in the fire department and has been a member of the board of 
fire commissioners nine years, and served as president of the board of fire commis- 
sioners for two yeans. In 1865 Mr. Granger married Ermina, daughter of Charles 
F. White, of Corinth, Saratoga county. They had one son, Henry A., who died in 
February, 1889, aged twenty-two years. 



Grant, C. S., M. D. , was born in Delaware county, and was graduated in medicine 
from the Albany Medical College. Since graduating, however, every five years he 
has taken a course in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York He began 
his practice in Saratoga Springs in 1867 and such was his success that he built up an 
enormous practice and established a reputation for skill and ability that places him 
in the front rank of the physicians and surgeons of the State. He is a member of 
the New York State Medical Association and of the Saratoga County Medical Socie- 
ty; also of the Saratoga Club and the Masonic fraternity. In 1897 Dr. Grant mar- 
ried Miss Lizzie C. Sheehan, daughter of Cornelius Sheehan, president of the Con- 
gress Springs Co. of Saratoga Springs. 



Grant, Miss Diana S. — Diana S. Grant's father, the late James Grant, was born in 
Forforshire, Scotland, in 1800, educated in their schools and was a stone cutter by 
trade. He married Ann Knight of his native county and they had five children: 
William (died young), Isabell, James. David and Diana S. Mr. Grant died in 1873 
and his wife in 1856. Isabell married William Roberts of her native place and they 
came to the United States in 1870. They had five children: Annie S. , William. Eliz- 
abeth, James G. and Diana B. Mr. Roberts died in 1873; Mrs. Robert conducts a 
grocery store. Annie S. married Thomas Robinson of Waterford, and they have 
three children: Isabell G., William R. and Hazel. Miss Diana S. Grant came to the 
United States in 1871. She was forewoman in the Hudson Knitting Mills eight years 
and in the Waterford Knitting Mills six years. 



Gray, Endress, was born at Altamont, Albany county, N. Y. , October 20. 1851, 
educated in the district schools and Albany High School, and in early life was a 
farmer. He was a grocery merchant at Princeton, Schenectady county, N. Y. , 
three years and then sold to other parties. He came to Mechanicville in 1883 and 
has been foreman of the transfer department of the'Fitchburg Railroad Company 
several years. Mr. Gray's father, Jonathan D. Gray, was born at the old home in 
Albany county, N. Y. , in 1826; educated in the schools of his day and was a farmer. 
He married Mary Ann Ostrander of his native place and they had eight children: 
Endress (as above), Henrietta, Sarah, Walter, Millard, Anna, Emmitt and Cora. 
Mr. Gray died in 1882 ; his widow survives now in 1898. Endre.ss Gray is a member 
of Noah Lodge of Altamont, N. Y. , No. 754, F. & A. M. , and is a member of the 



44 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Dutch Reformed church. In his political choice he is independent; ancestry of 
family is Dutch on both sides. 



Gregg, David, was born in the city of Troy, N. Y., in 1841, educated in the public 
schools of that city and in 1856 came to the town of Waterford with his father, where 
he has been a successful market gardener and farmer. In 1865 he married Sophia 
Hunt of Lansingburgh, N. Y., and they have two sons, Daniel and David, jr. Dan- 
iel married Mary Force and they have five children: David, Mary, Walter, Chauncey 
and Edna. Mr. Gregg's father, Samuel G. Gregg, was born in Windham, Rocking- 
ham county, N. H., May 17, 1810, and came to Waterford with his parents in 1823, 
and followed the water for a living, sailing on the Hudson river and along the 
United States coast to ports in Virginia. He married Maria Norton and they had 
two children: David (as above) and Amasa N. Mr. Gregg's grandfather, David 
Gregg, was born at the old home in Windham, April 8, 1767, and was a very ingen- 
ious man. His great-grandfather was a seafaring man and also an ofHcer in the Pro- 
vincial forces in the French and Indian war and had charge of a bateau, assisting 
the e.xpedition which went to Oswego, his men having to carry their boats from the 
North river overland, to pass the great Falls of the Mohawk, now called Cohoes. 
He was also at the taking of Fort Frontenac and Cataraqui. The family were pa- 
triots and soldiers in the Revolutionary war. David Gregg, the si.\th generation of 
this family, was born in Argyleshire, Scotland, was a captain in Oliver Cromwell's 
army in 1655 and subsequently removed to the vicinity of Londonderrj-, Ireland. 
The first settlers of this family came to Boston, Mass., in 1712, from the north of Ire- 
land. Mr. Gregg on the maternal side is descended from the original low Dutch, or 
Holland Dutch, settlers in Waterford, and later settlers from New England. 



Grenell, John Dennison, was born on the Keeler homestead, in Milton, where he 
now lives, September 27, 1840, a son of Alvie D. and Eliza (Keeler) Grenell. His 
father was a general merchant in Middlegrove, later cashier of a bank there. In 
1840 he moved to the Keeler homestead, where he lived the remainder of his life, 
with the exception of one year spent in Orleans county, N. Y. He was a public 
spirited man and active in Rock City Falls M. E. church. John D. Grenell was ed- 
ucated in the common schools of the town of Milton. He started in life for himself 
as a school teacher and taught his home school in 1862-63. In 1865 he purchased the 
old Keeler homestead of his father, where he now lives and follows general farming. 
He is an active worker in the M. E. church and has held most of the offices in the 
church. In 1864 he married L\-dia, daughter of Hiram and Delia (Hayward) Rog- 
ers, and their children are Alvie J., Edward A., Lillian and Florence (deceased). 



Grippin, Hon. Bartlett B. , was born in the town of Wilton, Saratoga county, N. 
Y., July 9, 1839, a son of Leman A. and Olive (Carpenter) Grippin. His grandfather, 
Esick Grippin, came to Saratoga county from Columbia county and the family have 
been in America for many generations. Mr. Grippin remained on his father's farm 
until twenty-one years of age when he set out to educate himself. lie attended suc- 
cessively Wilton Academy, North Granville Academy, Fort Edward Institute and 
Rutland College, graduating from the latter school at the head of his class in 1863. 



PERSONAL REFEREXCES. 45 

His business has been that of lumberman and farmer. He has always taken an 
active part in public affairs and was supervisor of the town of Wilton in 1876, 1877, 
1880, 1881, 1884, 1886, 1889, 1893. 1896 and 1897, being chairman of the board in 1884 
and again in 1886. He was elected member of assembly in 188.5, 1887 and 1888, and 
was instrumental in establishing the armory at Saratoga, a paid fire department and 
sewer bills for the village. In the fall of 1897 he was elected county treasurer, as- 
suming the duties on January 1, 1898. He is a staunch Republican and stands high 
in the esteem of his party. • 



Guy, Walton B., was born in Victory Mills, Saratoga county, February 5, 1856, a 
son of Sydney S. and Anna M. (Haight)Guy. His great-grandfather, Ambrose Guy, 
served in the Revolutionary war. Mr. Guy received a liberal education in the public 
schools of Washington county and was graduated from the New York Mutual Optical 
School. In 1893 he came to Saratoga Springs and engaged in his present practice, 
where he is the leading optician in that part of the State and makes regular visits to 
fourteen different towns, in all of which he has a large practice, besides doing all the 
important work in his line at Saratoga Springs. He is a prominent member of the 
Masonic fraternity and has passed through the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council, Com- 
mandery and Shrine. In 1876 Mr. Guy married Florence Davidson of Sandy Hill, 
and they have one son, Ross D. 



Haberlin, John P. B. , was born in Saratoga in 1846, a son of John P. and Mary 
(Ricard) Haberlin. His grandparents came here in 1883 and kept the old Lafayette 
House, the present Beverwick. His grandfather. John B., served in the army under 
Napoleon I. His father was a native of the Canton of Thurgau, Switzerland. John 
P. B. Haberlin was educated in the schools of the village and began his active busi- 
ness life as a clerk in a grocery store, after which he w-as twenty years in mercantile 
business in New York city. He then returned to Saratoga Springs and is connected 
with C. B. Thomas's ice business. Mr. Haberlin is a member of the board of audit- 
ors, also of the Royal Arcanum. On January 26, 1868, he married Miss J. A. Van 
Voast of Brooklyn, who died in 1895, leaving two children: John P. and Maude I. 



Hall, Hibbard, was born in Saratoga Springs in 1845, and went to the town of 
Moreau, where he was the greater part of his life a farmer and lumberman. He was 
a Republican and active worker and was assessor in Moreau for nine years. In 1895 
he bought the business of Isaac Gary at Gansevoort, and carries a large assortment 
of groceries, dry goods, hardware and agricultural implements. His son, Otis Hall. 
is a partner, the firm being Hall & Son. Mr. Hall was appointed postmaster iu 1898 
by President McKinley. He is a hustling business man, very affable and pleasant 
and a good all around man in the community. In 1868 Mr. Hall married Mary Grip- 
pen, daughter of Horace R. Grippen of Corinth, and they have two children: Otis 
and Ada, wife of B. E. Hibbard of Mechanicville. 



Hall, William H., M. D.. was born in New York city, March 12, 1838, and was ed- 
ucated in the Brooklyn City Academy and the medical department of the University 
of the City of New York. He graduated with the degree of M. D. in 1859 and then 



46 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

studied for some time in Paris, France. lu 1861 he enlisted as assistant surgeon in 
the 36th N. Y. Regiment and was in the field as surgeon throughout the entire war, 
and near the close of the war he was promoted to surgeon. He has also been asso- 
ciated with the military service of the war and was a member of the old 13th N. Y. 
Regiment and was also assistant surgeon of the National Guard. After the war he 
practiced medicine at Rutherford Park, N. J., until 1873, when he settled in Saratoga 
Springs. He is secretary of the United States Pension Board; has been medical 
director of the State Department of the Grand Army; a member of the New York 
State Medical Association; of the Climatological Society of the United States; also 
of the Ocean County (N. J.) Medical Society; the Saratoga Springs Medical Society; 
a member of the G A. R., of the Army of the Potomac, and of the A. O. U.W. Dr. 
Hall married Susan Tate Hall of Camden, Me., in 1860, and they have one daughter, 
Sophie A. Hall. Dr. Hall's parents were Farnham and Harriet C. (Seaman) Hall, 
the former a native of Massachusetts and the latter of New York city; she died in 
Brooklyn, N. Y. At the time of his father's death his parents were residents of 
Staten Island. His grandfather, Benjamin Hall, was a lieutenant in the RevoUition- 
ary war, and his great-grandfather was an Indian fighter in the early days of this 
country. 



Ham, John H., son of John and Lucinda (Miller) Ham, was born in 1852. He had 
two brothers, Edgar, who served in Co. F, 115th N. Y. Vols., and Edwin, who 
served in Co. D, 77th N. Y. Vols., and was a prisoner for eleven months in Ander- 
sonville prison. He also had three sisters: Adaline, Caroline and Kate, of whom 
but one is living — Adaline, who married first J. L. Howard, and second Hiram 
Weaver. Mr. Ham carries on fruit culture and general gardening and has a farm 
of ninety-six acres. In politics he is a Republican and has held the position of town 
constable for several years. He has been twice married; first, to Lsabel Shaver; 
they had three children: Mary A., Albert S. and Belle. In October, 18i)7, he mar- 
ried Alice A. Threehouse. Mr. Ham's paternal and maternal great-grandfathers 
served in the Revolutionary war, and his grandfather Ham in the war of 1812. Mr. 
Ham has been a resident of his town all his life, and has been tendered many public 
offices, all of which he has declined. 



Harris, Arnold, was born in the town of Ballston, February 22, 1808. His father 
was Daniel Harris, who had twelve children, of whom Arnold was the eldest. Dur- 
ing his boyhod he lived upon his father's farm and afterward taught school until he 
was nineteen, when he removed to Ballston Spa, and became clerk in a hardware 
store in the building now known as the Barrett building, on Front street. In 1834 
he and the late James H. Spier bought out the business and continued as partners 
until 1839, in which year Mr. Spier's interest was transferred to William Harris and 
the business was continued under the name of A. & W. Harris. In 1840 they built 
the brick store which they moved into and which has since been occupied as a hard- 
ware store, and in 1842 Mr. Harris became the sole owner and continued alone until 
1882, when he associated Fred Armer with him, under the name of F. Armer & Co. 
The firm did business until 1889, when his increasing years compelled Mr. Harris to 
retire. His success as a merchant was e.xceptional and he amassed a large fortune. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 47 

Beside his store he for a long time conducted the well known Harris foundry on 
Ford street, where he manufactured a plow which for years was preferred by farm- 
ers to any other. Though never a politician, Mr. Harris took a deep interest in pub- 
lic aflfairs. He was from the foundation of the Republican party one of its staunch- 
est adherents and was a thorough believer in the doctrine of protection. In the fall 
of 1848 he was elected county treasurer and continued in that position for six years, 
at the end of which time he declined a renomination. Though repeatedly urged to 
become a candidate for office he always refused. When the plans were made for 
erecting the present county clerk's office, Mr. Harris was made chairman of the com- 
mittee appointed for that purpose and his advice and experience were invaluable in 
pushing the work to completion. He was for many years a director in the Ballston 
Spa National bank and at the time of his death was vice-president of the institution 
and one of its largest shareholders. June 20, 1831, he married Phoebe Middlebrook, 
who died March 31, 1873. They had five children, all of whom died young except 
one daughter, Mary, who married Charles S. Hall of Binghamton. May 18, 1874, 
Mr. Harris married Sarah Middlebrook. who survives him. Mr. Harris died Jan- 
uary 15, 1891, in his eighty-third year, and by his death Ballston Spa has lost one of 
its best known citizens and one whose reputation for industry and honesty was un- 
questioned. 



Harris, Mrs. Mary C. , vifidow of John Harris; the latter was born in 1799, and died 
on April 24, 1862. They had five children, two now living: John C. Harris of Sara- 
toga Springs, and Gertrude, wife of William Harris of Fort Edward, Washington 
county. One of Mrs. Harris's deceased children was Mrs. Eliza Harris Billings, 
who was murdered on the 4th of June, 1878, by being shot through the head while 
sitting in her room in company with her daughter and a house servant. The murder 
of Mrs. Billings caused a great sensation at the time and was the means of a long 
and expensive trial, her husband being accused of the murder. He was finally 
acquitted after two trials, the first resulting m a disagreement of the jury. Mrs. 
Harris was born in western Oneida county, N. Y. , and was the daughter of Joseph 
A. Clark an extensive farmer of that vicinity. She was married to Mr. Harris on 
August 7. 1831, and went as a bride to Whitehall, where her husband was in general 
merchandise business. Mr. Harris was the owner of the property where the home- 
stead is now located and hither they came the spring following, leaving the business 
at Whitehall, which was destroyed by fire in 1849. Their first residence was in a 
dwelling adjoining the present residence. Her mother was Elizabeth Olney, whose 
people were residents of the village of Quaker Springs in old Saratoga. Mr.s. Har- 
ris, who has passed the three score years and ten, is still one of the liveliest women 
in the vicinity, conducts her own house, directs the affairs of her farm and exercises 
a general supervision over the affairs of her large property. 



Hatlee, Charles. — Charles Hatlee's father, William Hatlee, was born in county 
Kent. England, September 29, 1829, and educated in their schools. October 19, 184."), 
he married Elizabeth Shepard of his native place, and came to the United States in 
1858, first locating in Lansingburgh. They had eight children: William, jr., James. 
John, Edmund, David H., Sarah E. , Charles and George. Charles and George run 



48 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the farm; they also have an excellent milk route. William, jr., married Eliza Tor- 
doff of Troy, N. Y. ; they have three children: William, jr., John and Francis T. 
James married Almira Wilkes; they have five children: Mary, James, Eliza, Alice 
and Amy. John married Maria Ball ; they have si.\ children: Thomas, Sarah, John, 
George, Elizabeth and Mary. Edmund married Jane Archibold; they have si.\ chil- 
dren: William, Jennie, Elizabeth, David, Jolin and Annie. David married Anna 
Tordoff. Sarah E. married George Sandholt; they have three children: George, 
Nellie and Samuel. Charles is not married. George married Blanche Tymeson ; 
they have two children: Parker D. and Charles Crawford. The family arc members 
of the Epi.scopal church. 



Hayden, Adelbert C. , the eldest son of John C. and Martha Haight (Quinby) Hay- 
den, was born at the family homestead in Fulton county, April Sfi, 18r);S. His ances- 
tors on the paternal side were early settlers of Massachusetts; however, Mr. Hay- 
den's branch of the family early removed to New York State, and have been 
strongly identified with its life and history. His mother was a Quakeress, a de- 
scendant of Robert Quinby, who settled in Salisbury, Mass., in June, 1653. Mr. 
Hayden was educated at the private school of Mrs. Hiram Person of Bachellerville, 
and at the Albany Normal College, from which he was graduated in 1883. In Jan- 
nary, 1884, he went to Washington, D. C. , wliere he held a position in the govern- 
ment .service for tour years. On March 9. 1887, he married Nellie Farr Lohnas, 
daughter of Deyoe and Huldah L. (Farr) Lohnas of Saratoga Springs. They have 
two daughters, Grace Lohnas and Rita Marion. In March, 1888, Mr. Hayden re- 
moved from Washington to Saratoga, where he became associated in business with 
D. Lohnas. Mr. Hayden is a respected citizen of the town wheve he resides, and is 
beloved for his many noble and Christian qualities. He is a director of the Y. M. C. 
A. ; a member and trustee of the First Baptist church, and for two years has been 
superintendent of the Sunday school. 



Hays, Alexander S. , was born in the town of Gal way, Saratoga county, April 1, 
ISS.'), and moved to the village of Saratoga Springs in 1846. Since that date he has 
been a manufacturer and wholesale dealer in confectionery. He is the oldest mer- 
chant in that village, in the sense of having been engaged in business longer than 
any other one now engaged in business. He is a son of the late Stephen Hays of 
Galway ; his mother was a descendant of the Alexander family of Scotland, many of 
whose sons have been famous for great literary ability. Mr. Hays served as assessor, 
aUso director of the First National Bank. In political opinion he is a staunch Repub- 
lican. He has been a member and trustee of the First Presbyterian church many 
years. He has been twice married; in 1853 he married Maria C. Cook, who was a 
daughter of Spencer Cook of Ohio. On February 19, 1890. he married Mrs. Eliza C. 
Pettit, daughter of Hon. John P. Cline of Oppenheim, N. Y. Mr. Hays has two 
children; Lydia Alexander, a missionary in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Lewis 
Henry. Lewis II. married Eliza Frecburn, April 39, 1890, and they have two chil- 
dren: Margaret Lydia and Katherine Jean. 



Heeney, P., was born in Albany, March 21, 1863, a son of John Heeney, a native 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 49 

of Ireland, who came to the United States and settled in Albany, and in 1866 came 
to Hallston, where he was identified as a farmer and teamster. He died January 14-, 
1898. Mr. P. Heeney was educated in the public schools, and engaged in the livery 
business, establishing his present business in 1891. Mr. Heeney is one of the self- 
made men of his town, serving as constable, street and water commissioner. He 
takes an active interest in school and church matters and has ever advanced the best 
interests of his town and townspeople. 



Heflfernan, Edward J., was lK)ru in Saratoga Springs, August 29, 18.')(i, a .son of 
Peter and Sarah (Gunning) Heflfernan. His mother's father was one of the old land- 
marks of Saratoga Springs and her brother, John Gunning, was a prominent lawyer. 
Mr. Heflfernan learned the printing trade with B. F. Judson, which he followed from 
1869 to 1889, and in September of the latter year embarked in the bottling business, 
which he has since conducted. He is one of the best known men in public life in 
Saratoga .Springs. He was elected excise commissioner for two terms (six years), 
and is serving his second term on the board of trustees. He was first elected for the 
old Second ward and now represents the Fourth ward, the first term being for the 
years 1892-93, his i)resent term for 1897-98. On April 24, 1878, Mr. Heffernan mar- 
ried Catherine Farrcll. 



Height, Ferdinand, was born at Ballston Spa, September 21, 1832, a .son of Daniel 
and Mary Ann (McKenzie) Height. He learned the printer's trade, which he fol- 
lowed from vSeptember 13, 184.'), to July 4, IS.'iO, when he lost an arm. After spend- 
ing a short time as clerk in New York, he embarked in the news business in 1853, 
which he continued until 18,')8. lu 1862 he was village clerk and was also town clerk 
part of a term. He subsequently spent fourteen months as paymaster's clerk in the 
navy, when he returned to Saratoga and clerked for five years. In 1875 he engaged 
in the laundry business which he still contmues. Mr. Height is a member of the 
Firemen's Benefit Association. In addition to his regular laundry business Mr. 
Height is agent for the W. R. Lee Dye Works, No. 51 State street, Troy, N. Y. 

Hemstead, John, was born at Eagle Mills, Rensselaer county, N. Y., December 
20, 1846, and obtained his education in the district schools. In early life he was a 
farmer and market gardener, and forthe past twenty-nine years has conducted a suc- 
cessful coopering business in Waterford, N. Y. December 31, 1868, he married Mary 
L. Lewis, of his native county, and they had six children: (Jeorge W., Mary F., 
who died in her fourteenth year, Jessie E.. Carrie M., Arthur E. and Hattie, who 
died in her second year. George W. married Carrie Shaw of Broome county, N. Y., 
and they have one son, John. Mr. Hemstead's father, Philip, was born in Germany 
about the year 1809. and when a young man he came to the United States and 
located in Rensselaer county. He afterward married Catherine Keeler, formerly of 
his native country, and they had five children: John, as above, Kate, George, Will- 
iam and Mary E. Philip Hemstead died in the year 1854, and his widow in 1858. 
Mrs. Hemstead's father, John D. Lewis, was born in Grafton. Rensselaer county, 
March 10, 1817. He was well educated and was an attorney at law by profession. 
He married E. Ann Crandall of his native county, and they had eight children 
il 



50 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOrLE. 

William H., Nathan, John D.. Mary L., as above, Arthur C, Leonard S., Benjamin 
E. . who died in infancy, and G. Elmer. Mr. Lewis died July 23, 1891, and his wife 
August 24, 1889. Mr. Hemstead is a member of Maple Valley Lodge No. 427. 1. O. 
O. F., also of Waterford Council No. 1558, R. A. In his political choice he is a 
staunch Republican. The ancestry of the family is German and Welsh. 



Heritage, Joshua, was born in Oxfordshire, England, in 1829, and came to this 
country in 1851, locating in Lausingburgb, where he remained one year, then removed 
to the town of Milton, Saratoga county, and at the end of three years purchased a 
small farm there. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. H, 153d Regiment N. Y. Vols., and 
was wounded in the battle at Winchester, Va. He received an honorable discharge 
on October 17, 1865, and returned to his home, where he has since been engaged in 
fanning, and is known as one of the most successful and practical farmers of the 
town. At the present time (1898) Mr. Heritage is living on his large farm, which he 
purchased in 1873, after a five years' residence in Greenfield, N. Y. Here he has 
lived for twenty-five years and though not actively engaged in labor, he superintends 
the place. He married Dinah Townley in England, and they had twelve children, 
seven now living, who honor their parents and revere their home. Of the sons. 
John Wesley remains on the homestead, has occupied a prominent position in town 
affairs and is a public spirited young man; he was elected excise commissioner in 
1889 and served three years; in 1892 he was elected commissioner of highways and 
is at present serving his second term, making an e.Kcellent official. He and his father 
are both strong Republicans and Mr. Heritage, jr., has worked for his party in town 
and county. Both father and son are identified with every public enterprise and 
the name is synonymous in the place for integrity and right. Mr. Heritage was 
always interested in the advancement of town and county affairs and he and his 
estimable wife are representative people in their community Of Mr. Heritage's 
other children, Joshua is at home; William has a lucrative position in the locomotive 
works at Schenectady; Henry and Charles live in Ballston Spa, the latter conducting 
the leading barber shop there; Eliza resides at Corinth, Saratoga county ; and the 
other at Ballston Spa. 



Hochstrasser, Amos, was born in Berne. Albany county, N. \'., June 28. 1823, a 
son of Jacob and Margaret Hochstrasser, and was educated in the common schools 
of the town of Berne and Albany Normal School. He assisted his father on the 
farm summers and attended school winters. When about thirty years of age he 
started in life for himself as a farmer, near his late residence; twenty years later he 
purchased the farm whereon be died. Mr. Hochstrasser married Margaret, daugh- 
ter of Joseph Gifford; they had three children: Alice, wife of Newton Brown; Lot- 
tie, wife of Fred Armour; and Nora, wife of Wallace Armour. Mr. Hochstrasser 
was an active worker in the Presbyterian church of Milton, having been trustee of 
the church for thirty years, and at the time of his death was an elder. He died 
August 13, 1898, mourned not only by his immediate family, but by all who knew 
his worth as a man and citizen. 



Hodges, C. H., was born in the town of Wilton in 1841, a son of Edward and 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 51 

Laura (Burnham) Hodges. His parents moved to Saratoga Springs in 1843, where 
C. H. was educated in the common schools, and has been prominently connected 
with the hotels for thirty-five years. He was with the Grand Union for fifteen years 
and twenty years with Congress Hall, where he is now (18!)8) head porter. He is a 
member of the A. O. U. W., and served with the 77th N. Y. Vols, in the war of the 
Rebellion during the years 1861 and 1862, participating in the operations in front of 
Yorktown, and was wounded at Lee's Mills, April 6, 1863. He is a member of the 
G. A. R. and has been commander of Post Wheeler. In 1863 Mr. Hodges married 
his wife, who died in 1869, leaving three children. In 1871 he married again and 
has three children by his present wife. 



Hodges, George H., was born in the town of Greenfield, upon the farm he owns, 
February 9, 1839, youngest son of Thomas and Mary (Hanford) Hodges, natives of 
Kent. England, who came to Saratoga Springs in 1836. and to Greenfield in 1837, 
settling on the farm now owned by George H., where Thomas died in 1853, and his 
wife in 1880. They had eight children, all born in England, save George H., and 
six are now living. George H. was reared upon a farm and educated in the district 
school. He is a farmer and owns 375 acres of land. He enlisted in 1862 in Co. G, 
153d Regt. N. Y. Vol. Infantry, and served three years as orderly .sergeant and first 
and second lieutenant. In 1868 he married Mary E White and they have four chil- 
dren: Clara B., William. Charles and Edson. Mrs. Hodges died in 1884 and in 1887 
he married Mary E. Hawkins and they have one daughter, Florence. Mr. Hodges 
is a member of Greenfield Lodge No. 308, I.O.O. F. ; Post Wheeler No. 684, G. A. R. ; 
and of the Grange No. 807. P. of H. He has served as justice of the peace fourteen 
years and filled other offices of trust. 



Hodges, Miles E., was born in Wilton township, in 1861, a son of Edwin and Sarah 
M. (Tallman) Hodges. His father was born in England and came to this country 
when seven years old. Miles E. received his education in the schools of his native 
place and has always resided at home. He married Eunice A. Potter, and they have 
one son, Charles Edwin. The pleasant home of this family is situated a few rods 
from the main street in the pretty village of Wilton; the farm consists of 112 acres 
of fine land in a high state of cultivation, and is devoted to general farming. A fine 
dairv is kept, producing rich butter and cream, which finds a ready sale in the Sar- 
atoga market. Both Mr. Hodges and his father are Democrats, of the kind who be- 
lieve in the be.st men for local offices. They are among the most respected citizens 
of Wilton. 



Hodges, William Carpenter, was born in Corinth, June 13, 1860, a son of James N. 
and Betsey (Ambler) Hodges. His father was a sailor on the Hudson River and 
came to Saratoga county in 1842. Mr. Hodges carries on general farming and has 
109 acres. The farm is located in a commanding position, having a fine view of the 
Green Mountains of Vermont. In 1891 Mr. Hodges married Sebie Perry. Mrs. 
Hodges's family are related to Commodore Oliver Hazzard Perry, the hero of Lake 
Erie. Her grandfather, Kellogg Perry, was in the war of 1812. 



52 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Hodgman, John B., has been in business in Saratoga Springs longer than any man 
in the place. He was born May 15, 1823, a son of John and Zilpha(Buell) Hodgman. 
His father was a blacksmith and with him John B. learned his trade and has been 
in the blacksmith business for nearly fifty-six years. Mr. Hodgman is a member of 
the Presbyterian church, and is a deacon, having held that office for the past ten 
years. His father died in 1869 at the age of seventy-three; his mother was born in 
1807 and died in 1898 aged one hundred years and nine months. Mr. Hodgman 
married Eliza P. Finney, who died in 1890, leaving two sons, Dr. W. A. Hodgman 
and John E. 



Holmes, Franklin, was born at Verona, October 7. 1844, a son of Henry and 
Louisa (Hodges) Holmes. His parents left Verona when he was not quite two years 
old and settled in Greenfield, Saratoga county. He learned the art of glass blowing 
in Greenfield and it has been his life's business. In 1865 he came to Saratoga and 
in 1883 became superintendent of the Congress Bottle Works; in 1888 he resigned 
this position but again became superintendent in 1893 and still fills this position, be- 
sides performing other duties for the Congress Spring Company. Mr. Holmes mar- 
ried Alma Augusta Lamb, who died in 1889. leaving three children : Lena (deceased), 
Jessie (Mrs. Nicholas Miller), and Albert, who was graduated from the Saratoga 
High School in June, 1898. 

Howland, Smith B., a native of Fort Miller, was born in 1843, a son of Jonathan 
Howland, proprietor of the Howland House, Saratoga Springs, who has reached the 
advanced age of nmety two years. Smith B. was educated in the common schools 
and Schuylerville Academy, and at the age of fifteen left home to try the world for 
himself. He came to Schuylerville in 1867 and purchased a drug business, which 
had then been established over twenty years, making it one of the oldest places of its 
kind in the village, which he disposed of in 1875. He was then engaged for a num- 
ber of years with B. L. Hurd and started his present establishment in 1895. Mr. 
Howland is recognized as a first-class citizen and business man and carries a large 
stock of drugs, chemicals, paints, oils, varnishes, cigars, stationery, and handles the 
morning and evening newspapers. In politics he is a Democrat and has served two 
terms as town clerk, being elected the last time in 1897. He is a member of the 
board of education. In 1866 Mr. Howland married Carrie A. Perkms, and their 
children are Stewart A., and Arthur R., both of Granville, and Frank, who resides 
at Victor, Col., near Cripple Creek; Grace E., and Cressie C, both residing at home. 



Huestis, William B., was born in Saratoga Springs in the Huestis House, October 
18, 1853, a son of John and Mary (Barner) Huestis. He was educated in the public 
schools of his native village and his business life has been entirely connected with 
the hotel business. He was first associated with his father, who built the Huestis 
House fifty years ago, and has been proprietor of it since 1883. He has greatly en- 
larged the house and modernized it in every way, so that it is to-day one of the lead- 
ing hotels in the State and has ample accommodations for 250 guests. Mr. Huestis 
is widely known as an enterprising and genial hotel man. In 1880 Mr. Huestis mar- 
ried Almira Merrill, and they have two children, John M. and Mary W. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 53 

Hughes, George W., was born in Albany, N. Y., July 17, 1843, a son of Thomas 
and Ann (Lee) Hughes, who came from Greenbush to Providence about 1866, and 
both died in Galway, he in 1898 and she in 1880. George W. was reared in Green- 
bush and there educated and is a farmer and lumberman. In 1876 he married Emma 
M. Sweet, daughter of Hiram Sweet, one of the early settlers of Galway and who 
died in 1890 on the farm now owned by George W. They have two children; Libbie 
E., educated in the common schools, a teacher in Galway, and Lee W. In politics 
Mr. Hughes is a Republican and has been overseer of the poor, commissioner six 
years, and was nominated for supervisor in 1898. He is a member of Galway Lodge 
No. 453, I.O.O.F. Mr. Hughes is a brother of Rev. Dr. W. H. Hughes of Mechanic- 
ville, formerly of Saratoga Springs; also a brother of James T., general manager of 
the Brodalbin creamery. Mr. Hughes is a stockholder and one of the directors of 
the Brodalbin creamery, and at present largely in the fruit business. His place is 
known as the " Maple Avenue Fruit Farm." 



Humphrey, James, was born in the southern part of the town of Stillwater, Jan- 
uary 16, 1819, a son of Josiah and Ohve Humphrey, who came from Columbia 
county and .settled in the southern part of the town about 1816. James was ed- 
ucated in the schools of the town and when he was twenty-one years of age his 
father died and he took charge of his business and in 1842 sold his father's interest in 
the old homestead and purchased the farm where he now lives. He is active in town 
and county affairs and has served as highway commissioner and assessor. He mar- 
ried Mary, daughter of William Baker. Mrs. Humphrey died and Mr. Humphrey 
again married, Mary, daugliter of Hiram Humphrey. 



Humphrey, John F., M. D., was born at Mechanicville, N. Y., March 24, 1865, 
and removed to Saratoga in 1867, where he was educated in the public schools, grad- 
uating from the high school in 1883. During the next five years he occupied a cler- 
ical position, at the same time reading medicine preparatory to entering Columbia 
University in 1888. from which he was graduated in 1891, with the degree of M.D. 
He at once began the practice of his profession in Saratoga Springs associated with 
the late Dr. W. H. Hodgman and has attained a prominent place as a physician. 
He is a member and vice-president of the Saratoga Medical Society; the New York 
State Medical Association ; and the third district branch of the New York State 
Association ; also of the Masonic fraternity, and Royal Arcanum. Dr. Humphrey's 
ancestors settled in Columbia county, afterward in Otsego county, but the imme- 
diate family have resided in Saratoga county since 1850. Dr. Humphrey has been a 
member of the board of education since 1894, and village health officer in 1893 and 
1894, and is attending physician to the Saratoga Hospital ; is also a member of the 
auditing committee of the same. 



Hunter. Andrew W., son of David Hunter, was born June 16, 1843, and educated 
in the common schools. Mr. Hunter carries on the business of general farming and 
has a fine dairy, the products of which find a ready market in Saratoga and other 
places. Politically he is a Democrat, but has never sought office; he believes in the 
best men for local offices and generally sustains the one most qualified to fill the po- 



54 OLR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

sitions of public trust. March IS, 1875, Mr. Hunter married Ida Carr. Mr. Hunter 
is recognized as a citizen of sterling worth and is universally respected in the com- 
munitv. 



Inman, Dr. Earl, wais bom in Providence. July 30, 1S43, a son of Dorous and Cath- 
erine (Slye> Inman. Dr. Inman's father was in early life a tanner and shoemaker, 
afterwards a cooper and also carried on farming. He spent his last days at East 
Galway as proprietor of the East Galway Hotel; he died October 10, 1SS8, and 
his wife January 8, ISol. Dr. Inman was reared in Providence until six years old 
and has since lived in Galway, where he was educated and studied with Dr. Park- 
man for dentisiry ; he has practiced his profession until the present time, and has 
also been proprietor of the hotel since his fathers death. He owns a farm in Provi- 
dence of 100 acres and forty-five acres near the hotel. He has been correspondent 
for the Saratoeian for some vears. 



Jaquith family, the, are descended on the paternal side from a long line of good 
old Xew England ancestry. Daniel Jaquith emig^ted to Schuylerville early in 1822, 
from Hinsdale, X. H., when Ssephen M., father of the family, now residing in 
Schuvlerville, was an infant. Mr. Jaquith, sr., became a general merchant. His 
son, Stephen M.. seems to have preferred the wholesale business in paints and oils, 
as carried on by a relative of his mother in Philadelphia, to selling calicoes and sugar 
in his fathers store in Schuylerville, for we find him at an early age in the Quaker 
Citv industriously app!\"ing himse'.f to the service of his uncle, where he remained 
seven years and -hen returned to Schuylerville. with money to engage in business in 
the same line he pursued in Philadelphia, and to remove incumbrances on his faiher's 
property. In 1S50 he married Mary A. Helien, of Welsh and English descent, who 
bore him eight children, a11 of whom survive: Stephen M., who has followed the 
business of his father and is a well known member of the board of education and a 
member of Schuyler Lodge No. 676, F. & A. M. ; George A., and Mayo P., residents 
of Ipswich, South Dakota: Mrs. Ella Andrews, of Corinth: Mrs. Emma Cleaver and 
Mr& Bertha Aitcheson. of Schuylerville; Mrs. John A. Ernsi of Xew York city; and 
Amos B., the youngest, who looks after the interests of the Jaquith estate. Amos B. 
Jaquith was born in Schuylerville. March 17. 1S66. was educated in the public schools 
and is a bachelor, residing at home and has the entire care of the property belong- 
ing to the estate. He is a Democrat in politics and is a war horse in the cotmcils of 
his party. He is exceedingly jwpular among all classes. In 1SS9 he was elected 
overseer of the poor for the town of Saratoga, and held the place two years. In 
August, 1S91, he was elected a member of the .-:' — " ' - -.-d for three years, was 
re-elected in August, 1S96, to the same positi. ree years, was president 

of the board in 1S97 and 1S9S, and elected s.i^erv:ijr of the town in 1S9?, 
overcoming a Republican ma;ority of 250. He is a member of Schuyler Lodge No. 
676, F. & A. M.. Home Chapter 176. R. A. M.. Washington Commander^- No. 33. is 
a member of the nre department and treasurer :' General Schuyler Steamer Co. 
Mr. Jaquith for so young a man has develoy ■ . :ty, especially in the field of 

nolincal activitv, which older heads than his , uroud of. 



Jones, John S., was bom in the town of Greenfield, Saratoga county, N. Y., Feb- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 55 

ruary 3, 1859, a son of Samuel, son of Nathaniel, son of Nathaniel Jones, one of the 
first settlers of that town. Samuel Jones was born September 19, 1824, and educated 
in the common schools. March 6, 1854, he married Lydia M. Peacock, and they had 
one son, John S. (as above). Mr. Jones is a Republican and has been constable 
thirty-one )'ears. John S. was engaged in the railroad business twenty-two years, 
eighteen years as conductor. He is now owner of the saw mill at Porter's Corners 
and manufactures shingles and lumber. He married Bertha D. Weed, born in Sara- 
toga, N. Y., and they have two daughters: J. Rosey and Bertha L. In politics Mr. 
Jones is a Republican; he is a member of Greenfield Lodge No. 308, I. O. O. F., and 
the order of Railway Conductors No. 146, E. A. Smith division of Fitchburg. 



Kavanaugh, Hon. George W. , was born in Waterford, N. Y., and is one of the 
best known business men in this section. He is a dealer in trimmings for knit goods, 
with his store on Mohawk street, Cohoes, N. Y., in which business he embarked in 
1885: he is also connected with the Hope Knitting Company of Cohoes, Troy Knit- 
ting Co. of Troy, F. W. Kavanaugh & Co. of Cohoes, and with the Kavanaugh Knit- 
ting Co. of Waterford, which was incorporated m 1890. Mr. Kavanaugh takes pride 
in recalling his first business enterprise in delivering the Troy Times after school 
hours over the route from Waterford to Cohoes bridge over the Mohawk. He had 
never held an elective office, although he has been prominent in Republican circles 
for a number of years, and has been recognized as one of the most devoted and 
efficient party men. In February, 1894, Governor Morton appointed him an aide-de- 
camp on his staff", with the rank of colonel. In the fall of 1896 he was elected mem- 
ber of assembly by a large majority over his Democratic competitor, William Dela- 
ney. He served on the committees of internal affairs, public education and militarv 
affairs; in the fall of 1897 he was re-elected a member of assembly, having no Dem- 
ocratic competitor, and served on the following committees with distinction: chair- 
man of the committee on military affairs; a member of the committees of electricity, 
gas, water supply and insurance. His father, Luke Kavanaugh, was born in the 
year 1830, and when a small boy worked in the woolen mills in Leeds, England, 
earning the munificent sum of half a crown (63 cents) per week. In 1854, with his 
wife and two young children, he came to the United States and located in Cohoes, 
N. Y. They had seven children, three of whom are dead: Jane died at the age of 
si.K years; William died as the age of three years; Margaret married Charles Coons 
of Waterford, and they had one son, Henry L. Mrs. Coons died in 1893, and four 
now survive: Charles H., George W. (as above), Horatio S. and Frederick W. Charles 
II. was appointed postmaster under the Cleveland administration, which position he 
still holds. He also has an interest in the Kavanaugh Knitting Co. He married 
Henrietta Meeker, and they had two children: Frank B., who died at the age of 
nine years, and Mary. George W. married Julia Churchill Rickman of Louisville, 
Ky. ; Frederick W. married Lillian M. Le Roy, and they had two children: Freder- 
ick, and Luke who died in infancy. Frederick W. is an active member of the Kav- 
anaugh Knitting Co. He is a member of Clinton Lodge, F. & A. M. ; Waterford 
Chapter of Waterford, R. A. M. ; Bloss Council, of Apollo Commandery No. 15, K. T. ; 
Oriental Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. Their father, Luke Kavanaugh, is the senior 
member of the Kavanaugh Knitting Co., and holds the office of treasurer. He is one 



56 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of the trustees of the Mechanics Savings Bank of Cohoes. In his younger days he 
was a machinist with Gage & Campbell for twenty years. He resided in the State 
of Illinois five years, making telegraph instruments forjudge J. D. Caton. On June 
10, 1862, he patented an improvement on the knitting burr, which is used in all the 
knitting mills in the United States. In his church relations he is an Episcopalian. 
George \V. is a member of Cohoes Lodge, F. & A. M., of Cohoes Chapter, R. A. M., 
Bloss Council, Apollo Coramaudery No. 15, K. T , Oriental Temple, A. A. N. M. S., 
and of the Albany Consistory, of Waterford Club, of the Troy Yacht Club and of the 
Troy Elks, and president of the Cohoes City Club; member of the Pafraets Dael Club 
of Troy. Fort Orange Club of Albany, and Riverside Club of Lansingburgh. 



Kearney, Hon. Edward, was born in the city of New York in the year 1830 and 
was educated in the public schools. He was actively engaged in business in his 
native city for over forty years and has been a prominent figure in politics for a 
longer period. He has been a leader and sachem in Tammany Hall for many years. 
He took a conspicuous part with Hon. John Kelly in the reorganization of Tammany 
Hall at the close of the Tweed regime, and represented that organization for a long 
period in all matters pertaining to legislation. Was a member of the Democratic 
State Committee for several years; was frequenth' a delegate to city. State and 
national conventions; was elected on several occasions a presidential elector. Public 
office has been often tendered him but he always declined, except as above stated, 
because of business demands. He became a summer resident of Saratoga in 1871 
and has continued such ever since. He built handsome residences for himself and 
son, Edward W. Kearney, on Caroline street, occupying an entire block. He 
erected other houses, invested heavily in real estate and improved the same to the 
material benefit of Saratoga. For the purpose of further enhancing the interests of 
Saratoga he has accepted the presidency of the Saratoga Racing Association, much 
to his personal inconvenience. 



Kellogg, George, was born in Clifton Park, January 36, 1850, a son of John C. and 
Christiana (Fillinger) Kellogg. Their children were Christjohn, George, Charles, 
who died in infancy, Sylvester, Frank, Alfred and Howard (deceased), all natives of 
Clifton Park, with the exception of Christjohn. John C. and his wife Christiana 
came from Germany about 1848 and settled in the town of Clifton Park, and followed 
farming. He was public spirited and took an interest in the affairs of the town and 
county, also in schools and education. George Kellogg was educated in the common 
schools of Clifton Park, and his early life was spent on the farm with his parents. 
At the age of twelve years he started in life for himself as a farm laborer and since 
that time has depended on his own resources, and through economy and integrity 
has accumulated quite a competency and is a strictly self-made man. December 13, 
1871, he married Ida A., daughter of John M. and Katherine Kelly, and they have 
had one daughter, Masie E., wife of Schuyler Davey, and one sou, George Marvin 
(deceased). Christjohn Kellogg enlisted in Co. H, 153d Regiment, in 1862; was first 
under General Banks and later under General Sheridan and was with Sheridan at 
the time of his memorable ride. During his entire service he was only confined in a 
hospital for less than a week on account of a slight wound. He was mustered out 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 57 

at the close of the war and is now a successful farmer at Clifton Park. George 
Kellogg is a public spirited man and takes an active interest in the Republican 
party. He has one of the most pleasant homes in the town which is situated on 
Ballston lake; there are four cottages on his farm, along the lake, owned by Schen- 
ectady people. He purchased his farm in 1892. 



Kelly, Robert, was born in Oalway, June 26. 1832, a son of Robert and Isabella 
(McKindley) Kelly. His father was born in Galway, a son of William and Ellen 
(Major) Kelly, who came from Scotland to Galway in 1774. being the first settlers of 
the town, and their daughter, Elizabeth, being the first white child born in Galway. 
Mr. Kelly's father was a farmer and he and his wife had five children ; he died Sep- 
tember 2, 18.53, and his wife December 26, 18.i8. Robert Kelly, the subject, was 
educated in the common schools and is a farmer, having one hundred and twenty- 
eight and a half acres of land. He married Eliza Shaw, daughter of Robert Shaw. 
In 1862 Mr. Kelly enlisted in Co. H, lo3d N. Y. Infantry, and served nearly three 
years and was wounded twice. In politics he is a Republican and has been super- 
visor three years in his native town. He is a member of the G. A. R., William B. 
Carpenter Post, Galway village. 



Kilmer, Clarence B., was born at Rock City Falls in the town of Milton, Saratoga 
county, March .5, 187.5. and after a preliminary education at Fairview Institute, a 
boarding school at Saratoga Springs, he went to New York and graduated from the 
public schools of that city in 1891, and attended the College of the city of New York 
for two years, then took a three years' special course at Columbia College and a full 
course in the New York Law School, from which he was graduated in 189G with the 
degree of LL. B. He then passed the examining board at Albany, and was admit- 
ted to the bar in 1897, beginning his practice at Saratoga Springs that same vear. 
He was elected justice of the peace for the town of Milton in the spring of 1897, when 
only twenty-one years of age, and has been a Republican delegate to the count}- con ven- 
tion three times, beingsecretary to the convention fortwoyears. In 1897 Mr. Kilmer 
married Frances A. Mason. The Kilmer family is of Holland extraction, the original 
ancestor in this country having settled at Albany when it was Fort Orange. Mr. 
Kilmer is a member of the D. K. E. fraternity of Columbia College and also of the 
Independent Order of Odd Fellow^s. 



Kingsley, William V., was born in Warren county, N. Y., December 1, 18.54, and 
educated in the common schools and Glens Falls Academy. He remained on the farm 
until sixteen years of age and then worked for a log company four years. He learned 
the carpenter's trade, and for about ten years was a builder and contractor; he built 
about forty houses in Corinth, and at present owns four houses and lots. Mr. Kings- 
ley was overseer of repairs in the sulphite department and at present is millwright 
for the Hudson River Pulp & Paper Co. He has been very successful, and has made 
his own property, and to-day is one of the well-to-do men of the town. In politics 
he is a Prohibitionist, and was appointed street commissioner of Corinth village. He 
is a member of Corinth Lodge No. 174, I. O. O. F., and attends and supports the M. 
E. church. In 1875 he married Mary E. Eggleston, and they had three children: 



58 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Nellie A., Irwin C, and Mabel E. Mrs. Kingsley died February 20, 1890, and on 
August 31, 1892. he married Mrs. Mary B. Barrass of Corinth, daughter of a farmer 
of that place. Mr. Kingsley's father, C. P. Kingsley, was born in Luzerne, Warren 
county, April 3, 1837, a .son of Darius and Sarah A. (Canfield) Kingsley, he a native 
of Thurman, N. Y., and she born in Luzerne. Darius was a Methodist preacher and 
his wife was a Baptist. C. P. Kingsley was educated in the common schools, and moved 
to Corinth, where he owns 280 acres of land and has a dairy of twenty cows. He 
married Henrietta Varney, and they have four children: William V., Estella, Alice 
A., and Cassius A. 



Kneil, Thomas R., was born at Westfield, Mass., November 6, 1851, a son of Hon. 
Thomas and Mary (Bush) Kneil. His father was a native of the Isle of Man, and 
came to America with his father, William Kneil, settling in Utica, N. Y. Hon. 
Thomas Kneil moved to Westfield. Mass., and became a prominent man of that place. 
Thomas R. was educated in the Westfield High School, Wesleyan University of 
Connecticut, from which he was graduated in 1875, and the Boston LTniversity, in 
which he took a post-graduate course. He then accepted the position of principal of 
the Belchertown (Mass.) schools, which position he filled for two years, when he be- 
came professor of classics and elocution in the academy at Poultney, Vt. In 1880 he 
became principal of the union school at Crown Point, N. Y., where he remained for 
five years. He raised the status of this school to a very high standard and perma- 
nently established his ability as a scholar, executive and instructor. In 1885 Mr. 
Kneil entered the field of journalism and took charge of the Ticonderoga Sentinel, 
which he both published and edited. In 1888 he returned to his old position as prin- 
cipal of the Crown Point Union School, which he conducted with his aforesaid energy 
and success until 1891, when he came to Saratoga Springs and was principal of the 
high school until elected superintendent of schools July 1, 1892. Under his regime 
the schools of Saratoga Springs have risen to an enviable position in the educational 
system of the State, and are second to none in the Union. In 1898 he was offered an 
appointment as State institute conductor by Charles R. Skinner, State superintend- 
ent of public instruction, but declined. On January 5, 1882, Mr. Kneil married Car- 
rie M., daughter of Rev. C. R. Hawley, and their children are Thomas H. (deceased), 
Philip C, Margaret M., Robert C. and Caroline. 



Knowlson, Walter Sherman, A. M., principal of the Saratoga Springs High School, 
was born in Utica, N. Y., April 19, 1866, a sou of T. C. B. and Mary E. (Kittle) 
Knowlson. On both sides Prof. Knowlson descends from good stock. The Knowl- 
son family is of English descent, the first representatives in this country, having 
settled near Albany m 1805. On the maternal side he traces his ancestry through 
old colonial Knickerbocker stock to Holland; the name of Kittle being a derivation 
of the old Dutch name of Kettelhuyn. Prof. Knowlson was educated in the common 
schools of Utica, preparing for college in the Utica Free Academj'. He entered 
Hamilton in 1885 and was graduated A. B. with the class of 1889. He at once turned 
his attention to his chosen profession of teaching and has filled successfully the prin- 
cipalships of the high schools at Holland Patent, Sherburne and Clinton. He came 
to his present charge in Saratoga in 1895, and has given the community an excellent 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 59 

administration. Prof. Knowlson is well fitted by nature and ability as an instructor; 
shrewd in judgment, of strong character, and possessed of great enthusiasm, he has 
all the qualities that insure success as an educator. He is a member of the Royal 
Arcanum and of Rising Sun Lodge of Masons. In 1889 he married Katherine, 
daughter of Louis F. Leo of Utica, and they have one daughter, Ruth Leo. 



Lamb, James E. , was born in the town of Ballston, March 33, 1835. His father, 
Joseph Lamb, was born in the town of Halfmoon, Saratoga county, in 17T9, and his 
grandfather, Joseph Lamb, moved from Dutchess county to Halfmoon in about the 
year 1790. James E. has lived in the town of Malta since 1871, having resided in 
Halfmoon before that. March 1, 1873, he married Susan A. Olmstead of Maltaville, 
and they have one son, Otis E. of Maltaville. who married Margaret Wood of Clif- 
ton Park. Mr. Lamb has been supervisor of the town of Malta three terms and 
served as commissioner of highways two years. Besides being engaged in farming 
he conducts a saw mill at Maltaville, and is a director of the Manufacturers National 
Bank of Mechanicville. 



Lawrence, Eben S., M. D., was born in Greenfield, April 4, 1855. His father, 
Zimri Lawrence, was a native of the same town and married Harriet, daughter of 
Levi Smith, and through life was identified as a farmer. He filled many positions 
of honor and trust, supervisor, superintendent of the poor and deputy sheriff. Eben 
S. Lawrence was educated in the district schools of his native place and Rev. J. M. 
Crocker's select school, and was graduated from Union College in 1876. He studied 
medicine with Dr. C. S. Grant and was graduated from the Albany Medical College 
in 1881, and began his practice in Ballston. In 1887 he married Jennie Fo.x, daugh- 
ter of Charles M. McClew. Dr. Lawrence is one of the progressive men of his town, 
serving as coroner three years, supervisor and trustee of his village four yeans. He 
is a member of Kayaderosseras Lodge No. 90, I. O. O. F., and George West Division, 
K. P. of Ballston. 



Lefler, W. S., was born in Montgomery county, a son of William and Nancy Lefler, 
and was educated in the district schools. His first business undertaking was in the 
grocery line in Amsterdam, which he conducted for seven years. He came to Sara- 
toga Springs in 1887 and was engaged in the grocery business here until 1893, when 
he entered into the real estate business in partnership with Mr. S. H. Myers and the 
firm still e.\ists. Mr. Lefler married Anna Close and they have three children : Mabel 
G., Josiah C. and Jennie E. The Leflers are of Holland descent, Mr. Lefler's great- 
great-grandfather having emigrated from Holland and .settled near Tribe's Hill, 
Montgomery county, in the ante-Revolutionary days. 



Leonard, Thomas, was born in Norwich, Conn., April 5, 1854, and lived there un- 
til four years of age, when his parents removed to Maine, remaining there two years. 
In 18G0 they settled at Mount Pleasant, Saratoga county. Thomas Leonard was 
educated in the district schools of Saratoga county and at eighteen years of age en- 
gaged in the lumber business, taking large contracts throughout Saratoga, Hamilton 
and Warren counties. After four years of lumbering he came to Saratoga Springs 



60 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and was coachman for James M. Marvin for nine years. He then estabHshed the 
boarding stables which he still conducts. Mr. Leonard is an active Democrat and 
was for two years theatrical manager of the town hall. He is a member of the 
Knights of Columbia and Knights of Maccabees. In October, 1878, he married 
Mary Tracey, and they have six children, Mamie L. , Arthur J., who is a graduate of 
the Saratoga High School, Kittie F., Thomas J., Bertha M. and Earl W. 



Lester, Willard, was born in Saratoga Springs, August 21, 1852, and prepared for 
college under the tuition of Rev. Dr. James N. Crocker, who conducted an excellent 
school in Saratoga Springs at that time. He entered Union College in the fall of 
1869 and was graduated in the class of 1873 with the degree of A. B. He then took 
up the study of law in the office of his father, Hon. Charles S. Lester, and was ad- 
mitted to the bar of the State of New York at the sitting of the Supreme Court at 
Albany, January 12, 1877. On September 13, 1876, the degree of A. M. was con- 
ferred upon him by his Alma Mater; on December 4, 1882, he was admitted an attor- 
ney and counselor of the Supreme Court of the United States and he was also ad- 
mitted to the bar of the District of Columbia as attorney and counselor. Although 
by profession a lawyer, Mr. Lester has engaged in business enterprises not strictly 
of a professional nature. He has been connected with the management of the Grand 
Union Hotel at Saratoga, Willard's Hotel, Washington, D. C, and from 1891 to 1894 
inclusive, conducted the Windsor Hotel at Saratoga Springs. During all these times 
however, and since, he has pursued the practice of his profession. For the last fif- 
teen years he has devoted himself to the study and practice of the law of real estate 
and has built up an extensive real estate business, his firm, that of Lester Brothers, 
making a specialty of real estate loans, examination of titles and conveyancing. In 
November. 1894, Mr. Lester married Miss Jessie Louise Starr, only daughter of 
Albert J. Starr of Saratoga Springs. Mr. Lester has for many years been a director 
of the First National Bank of Saratoga Springs. 



Lewis. George L. , was born in the town of Greenfield, October 1, 1862. His father, 
George V. R. Lewis, was a native of the same town and the family were early set- 
tlers of Connecticut. Lyman Lewis, father of George V. R., married Edna, daugh- 
ter of George Young, and the family were early settlers and largest land owners of 
Middle Grove. George V. R. Lewis married Sallie M., daughter of Levi and Betsey 
Weed, and through life was identified in the lumber business. George L. was ed- 
ucated in Ballston Spa, and read law with Theodore F. Hamilton, also with L'Amor- 
eaux, Dake & Whalen, and was admitted to the bar January 24, 1884, at the age of 
twenty-one. In 1887 he married Ella, daughter of Thomas and Mary Kirby. Mr. 
Lewis is one of the progressive men of his town. In 1886 he was elected collector of 
Milton; in 1890 appointed collector of canal statistics at Waterford, N. Y. ; in 1892 
appointed law clerk to the board of railroad commissioners of the State of New 
York; in 1895 elected police justice of Milton; in 1893 and 1894 was chairman of the 
Saratoga County Democratic committee; in 1896 was elected member of the Demo- 
cratic State committee of the Twenty-eighth Senatorial district. 



Lincoln, Chester H., was born on the farm he owns, August 22, 1846, a son of 



PERSONAL REFERENXES. CI 

Dexter and Phoebe A. (Williams) Lincoln, educated in the common schools and 
Ballston Spa Academy. He spent seven years in Missouri, from 1869 to 1877, and 
returned to Greenfield and taught school fifteen terms. December 32, 1869, he mar- 
ried Julia M. Eddy, born in Galway, August 27, 1849, and they had three sons: 
Frank P., born in Missouri, November 22, 1873, died in infancy; Frederick H., born 
in Missouri, February 1.5, 1875; and Harry Garfield, born in Greenfield, October 5, 
1882. Mr. Lincoln's mother, Phoebe Williams, was a descendant of Roger Williams. 



Lockrow. Charles A., a prominent farmer and milk dealer of Saratoga Springs, 
was born in the town of old Saratoga. October 18, 1849, a son of Anthony and Eliza- 
beth (Yout) Lockrow. He grew to manhood on his father's farm and when twenty 
years of age left home and was occupied in different capacities until the fall of 1874, 
when he purchased a milk route and still manages it. From 1879 to 1887 he rented 
farms and worked them successfully and in 1887 bought his present farm. Mr. 
Lockrow married Hattie A. Peck of Saratoga Springs in 1878 and they have two 
daughters: Cora E. and Ruth M. Mr. Lockrow's great-grandfather and grandfather 
came to this country from France during the Revolutionary war, in which the former 
served as a soldier and the latter served on the supply train, although but a boy at 
the time. 



Lohnas, D. , was born at Valley Falls, Pittstown, Rensselaer county, N. Y., 
December 15, 1837, a son of Jacob and Charity (Deyoe) Lohnas. His paternal grand- 
parents were Germans and arrived in this country m time for his grandfather. Adam 
Lohnas, to render valiant service in the American Revolution. His mother was a 
descendant of a Huguenot family which fled from France to Holland and thence to 
America, where they were among the early settlers of Dutche.ss county, N. Y. His 
father died when he was but four years of age; thus from early childhood he was 
called upon to assist a widowed mother and early developed that fine courage, in- 
domitable perseverance, and rare judgment which has made his after life a success. 
At the age of fifteen he removed to Schuylerville, where he was educated at the 
academy. To this education has been added the knowledge gained from years of 
wide reading and large experience. He is a broad minded man, interested in all 
great questions of the day, and generous of both time and money toward any cause 
that tends to promote the welfare of his fellowmen. In 1860 Mr. Lohnas married 
Huldah L. Farr, daughter of Leonard and Amanda (Nelson) Farr of Schuylerville, 
and they have had three children; Nellie F., Harriet M. and Grace M. Grace died 
February 19, 1883; Nellie F. married Adelbert C. Hayden, and Harriet M. is the 
wife of Edward B. Ashton. Mr. Lohnas began his business career in Schuylerville, 
where he was engaged in the sale of grocries and meat until 1867, when he removed 
to Saratoga Springs and there continued in the same line of trade. His energy and 
business ability were soon manifested by his enlarged operations, as he became an 
extensive dealer in grains, flour and gfoceries. He it was who first introduced 
Chicago dressed meat into the State and erected wholesale houses at both Glens 
Falls and Saratoga Springs. He is also connected with several other business enter- 
prises of the town, prominent among them being the Lincoln Spring, of which he is 
vice-president and treasurer. He is a social, genial man and for many years has 



62 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

been prominently connected with the Masonic fraternity; a member of the Blue 
Lodge, Chapter, Council, Coramandery and Mystic Shrine. Throughout life he has 
been identified with the Republican party, and has never become .so engrossed in 
business, but that he has had some lime to devote to the public affairs of his town. 
In 1876 he manifested his interest in its educational life by allowing his name to be 
presented for a member of the board of education ; he was elected and served upon 
the board for three years. In 1887 he was elected president of the village for the 
term of two years, and at the e.\piration of that time was re-elected and served a 
second terra. His administration was thoroughly business like, a benefit to the 
village and a credit to himself. 



Luther, Thomas C. , was born in the village of Ballston Spa, November 30, 1862, a 
son of John J. and Mary (Clements) Luther, natives of Saratoga county. On June 
21, 1887, Mr. Luther married Alice Thompson, daughter of Frederick and Margaret 
M. (Lee) Powell, and they have one son, Thomas Frederick Luther. Mr. Luther 
started in life for himself when twenty-one years of age, leasing the White Sulphur 
Springs hotel on Saratoga lake. In 1887 he purchased the hotel and adjacent prop- 
erty, which consists of a saw and planing mill and farm property. Since taking 
charge of the hotel he has enlarged it considerably and its popularity is known all 
over the United States. He also has a line of steam yachts on the lake, one boat of 
which. The Alice (named after his wife), is the fastest passenger boat on inland 
waters in the State of New York. Mr. Luther is a member of Franklyn Lodge No. 
90, F. & A. M., of Ballston; Warren Chapter No. 23, R. A. M., Ballston; Cryptic 
Council No. ;i7, of Saratoga; Washington Commandery No. 33, Saratoga; Oriental 
Temple, Mystic Shrine, Troy; Patrons of Industry, and an honorary member of the 
Eighteenth Separate Company of Glens Falls. He has been active in county affairs 
and was a candidate for countv treasurer in 1897. 



McCall, MaryE., daughter of Michael Walsh, a prominent retired contractor of 
Saratoga Springs, married William H. McCall, June 14, 1888. Their children are 
John W., William H., and Robert (deceased). Mr. McCall died December 16, 1895; 
he was one of the brightest and most promising Saratoga lawyers, and his untimely 
death cut short a brilliant career. He was born at Perth, Ontario, Canada, October 
16, 1861, but lived in Saratoga Springs from the time he was three years of age. He 
read law in the office of Capt. J. P. Butler and also with Hon. J. W. Crawe, and was 
admitted to the bar in September, 1883. He was engaged in the active practice of 
his profession from that time until his death, and had attained to eminence in the 
department of civil law. In politics he wa; a Democrat and served on the board of 
education and the excise board and in 1883 was appointed assistant district attorney 
of Saratoga county and was an able prosecuter. Mrs. McCall is a lady of broad ed- 
ucation and high culture, and possesses a genial personality. 



McCreedy, Gordon S., was born in Ballston, Octobers, 1872, a son of C. O. Mc- 
Creedy, a native of Schuylerville. where the family were pioneers. C. O. McCreedy 
married Carrie F., daughter of George G. Scott, and through life has been engaged 
in the drug trade. He has served as postmaster, secretary of the State Forest Com- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 63 

mission, president of the village and president of the board of education. Gordon 
S. McCreedy was educated in Ballston and Riverview Military Academy, Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y. In 1890 he engaged in the coal business and in 1898 in the ice busi- 
ness. Mr. McCreedy is one of Ballston"s progressive men, taking an intelligent in- 
terest in school and church matters and has ever advanced the best interests of his 
town. 



McCreedy, Samuel, was the son of Gamaliel McCreedy, and was born in Schuyler- 
ville in 184:3, in the house now owned by his sister, Catherine McCreedy, one door 
north of his late residence on Broadway. In early life Mr. McCreedy followed the 
trade of his father, that of shoemaker, which he learned of his father who kept a 
store in that branch of trade where the McCreedy stores are now located. He con- 
tinued to work at his trade until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion, when 
he enlisted in 1861 in Co. K, 44th N. Y. Infantry, and served with it through the war. 
In the Wilderness campaign Mr. McCreedy was with his regiment and was taken 
prisoner at that battle and suffered the horrors of imprisonment at Andersouville 
prison for six months. Upon receiving his discharge in 1865 he returned to Schuy- 
lerville and engaged in the grocery business, which he so successfully carried on 
until his death on September 5, 1897. On September 10, 1865, Mr. McCreedy mar- 
ried Mary Adcox of SchuylerviUe, and they had two children: Kate (deceased), and 
Anna, wife of Sherman J. Parks. Mr. McCreedy was an active worker along all the 
avenues where practical good to mankind could be vouchsafed. He was an active 
member and also trustee of the M. E. church in SchuylerviUe at the time of his 
death; was an earnest and practical worker in the cause of temperance and reform; 
he always maintained a lively interest in his old comrades of the war, and was a 
member of Frank Norton Post No. 116, G. A. R. A good husband, a kind father 
and useful citizen, he was borne from his home on September 8, 1897, to his last rest- 
ing place in the Prospect Cemetery at SchuylerviUe. 



McDonald, Patrick, was born December 19, 1846, in County Fermanagh, Ireland. 
He is the son of Edward and Catherine McDonald. His mother's maiden name was 
Catherine Gunn. The family, consisting of Edward McDonald, wife and three chil- 
dren: James. Rosa and Patrick, emigrated to the United States and settled in Sara- 
toga Springs in 1848. He received his education in the public schools of that village. 
April 3, 1865, he enlisted as a private in Co. A, Eighth N. Y. Cavalry, General Cus- 
tar's brigade, General Sheridan's cavalry corps. At the expiration of the war he re- 
turned to Saratoga and took up the study of civil engineering under the tutorship of 
the late Peckham H. Green. He was engaged in the construction of the Union Vil- 
lage and Johnsonville Railroad; the branch line from Fort Edward to Glens Falls, 
and the extension of the Saratoga and Whitehall Railroad from Whitehall to Platls- 
burg. In 1869 he accepted a position from the government in the expedition to Cen- 
tral America, under the command of Commodore Selfridge, sent for the purpose of 
establishing a route for a ship canal across the Isthmus of Darien. After crossing 
the isthmus at San Bias and two points further south and not finding a feasible route, 
the expedition was recalled. Upon his return to Saratoga he was appointed village 
clerk in 1872, and reappointed four consecutive terms. At the town meeting of 1873 



64 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

he was elected town clerk; also serving as the clerk of the board of excise and board 
of avenue commissioners. In 1873. upon the creation of the office of receiver of taxes 
and assessments, he was selected as deputy receiver, acting in that capacity for six 
years. During the existence of the Saratoga Rowing Association, under whose 
auspices the great college regattas and amateur races of 1874, 1875 and 1876 were 
held upon Saratoga Lake, he acted as secretary of the association. In 1880 Isaiah 
Fuller, then acting as superintendent of the Sarotaga Racing Association for the im- 
provement of the breed of horses, was appointed superintendent of Dannemora State 
Prison, and Mr. McDonald was selected to till the vacancy of superintendent of the 
Saratoga Racing Association, a position he tilled for thirteen years. In addition 
thereto, in 1883, he was appointed superintendent of the Saratoga Club House, a 
position he still occupies. During the existence of the Volunteer Fire Department 
in the village he served .seventeen years, being secretary of the B. V. Eraser Hose 
Co. On the organization of the Saratoga Citizens' Corps, March 25, 1878, he joined the 
company and was elected first sergeant; he was promoted to second lieutenant Novem- 
ber 8, 1880, upon the resignation of Second Lieutenant H. P. Burney. He was pro- 
moted to first lieutenant February 15, 1883, on the promotion of First Lieutenant 
George H. Gillis. The resignation of Capt. J. S. Fassett on May 5, 18S3, left hmi in 
command of the company. The terms of enlistment of nearly all the members of the 
company having expired, there was a thorough reorganization of the company, under 
Capt. R. C. McEwen. Lieutenant McDonald resigned October 13, 1834. Lieutenant 
McDonald is a charter member of Post Wheeler No. 92, G. A. R. , and upon its or- 
ganization was appointed adjutant, a post he filled for several years. He is also a 
member of the Royal Arcanum, High Rock Council No. 652, of Saratoga. Mr. Mc- 
Donald has always acted with the Democratic party in politics. He was ever active 
in the promotion of its interests; he organized the present Jeffersonian Democratic 
Club and was elected its first vice-president. He was married on January 17, 1887, 
to Ida M. Ferguson, daughter of Isaac and Betsey Ferguson. Mr. McDonald's fam- 
ily consists of his wife and daughter, Irene A. McDonald. 



McEwen, Dr. Robert C, was born at Bainbridge, Chenango count)', N. Y., Octo- 
ber 15,1833, and died December 3, 1893. He entered Williams College at the age of 
sixteen and was graduated from that institution in the class of 1853. He then took 
a course with Dr. N. B. Ives of New Haven, Conn., and from there entered the Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons in New York city, from which he was graduated 
with high standing in the class of 1857. He was then appointed junior house physi- 
cian at Bellevue Hospital and was soon promoted to the position of senior assistant, 
and after eighteen months received a diploma from the hospital. He then traveled 
through Europe and South America and received and held for some time a commis- 
sion as surgeon in her Majesty's service. He returned to this country in 1860 and 
practiced his profession in Stratford, Conn., until 1862, when he accepted a commis- 
sion as assistant surgeon of the 17th Conn. Infantry. He soon became acting 
surgeon and served for two years, when he was compelled to resign on account of ill 
health. When he recovered he practiced in New York city for three years, then re- 
moved to Saratoga, where he built up a fine and extensive practice, and was not 
only an eminent physician, but was a prominent man in many ways in Saratoga 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. OH 

Springs. He held high offices in the New York State Medical Association; was sur- 
geon at St. Christina Home; a prominent Mason and an Episcopalian, holding offices 
in the church. He was captain of the 32d Separate Company and labored untiringly 
to secure an armory at Saratoga Springs, which project he eventually accomplished. 
On June 5, 1807, he married Sarah E. Watrous, a native of Troy, N. Y. 



McGuire, Patrick J., was born in Dublin, Ireland, April 7, 1845, a son of Edward 
and Sarah (Dawson) Meduire, he a native of Ireland and she of Scotland, and who 
came to Canada in IS.jO. Patrick J. was educated in the schools of Canada, and 
early began farming. April 13. 1886, he came to Corinth and bought 230 acres of 
land and has added lO.") acres in another farm. He has made his own property and 
built a nice residence. May 28, 1872. he married Julia Murray, and they have one 
daughter. Gwendolin L., born September 14, 1883. Mr. McGuire and wife are mem- 
bers of the M. E. church. 



McKain, James B., son of Allen and Sallie (Eaton) McKain. was born in the town 
of New Lisbon, Otsego county, N. Y., September 30, 1847. His grandfather, James 
McKain, was a native of Scotland and came to America in an early day, locating in 
the town of Lisbon, where he engaged successfully in farming. Allen McKain was 
born in Otsego county, and was engaged in farming until the year 18.').5, w-hen he 
bought the farm James B. now owns and there resided until his death. He married 
Sallie Eaton and they had two sons and four daughters: Emily, Jennie, James B. , 
Charles E., Abbie and Alice. James B. was brought up on the farm, educated in 
the public schools and Jonesville Academy and has been engaged in farming on the 
old homestead all his life. He also deals in hay and straw and has been superin- 
tendent of section 2 of the Erie canal since 1893. He is a staunch and active Re- 
publican ; a member of the F. & A. M., and the M. E. church. October 11, 1871, he 
married Sarah A. Parker, the only child of the late Hiram Parker, and they have 
two sons, Allen P. and Hiram J. 



McKallor, Edgar C, was born in Fredericksburg, Va.. January 2ti, 1870, and when 
a child came with his parents to Waterford, where he received a high school educa- 
tion. He learned the drug business with John Higgins & Company, was with them 
five years and one year with Dr. M. Barkmau & Co. He was graduated from the 
New York Board of Pharmacy of Albany, N. Y. , in June, 1891, and succeeded Dr. 
M. Barkman & Co. in the drug business in the same month and year. This proved 
such a success that in September, 1895, he opened a branch store at No. 79 Broad 
.street, continuing the two stores until April 7, 1897, when he discontinued the busi- 
ness at the corner of Broad and Third streets and moved it into the new store at No. 
79 Broad street, where the people are served with a complete assortment of goods in 
the drug line, and now, in 1898. he has achieved more than ordinary success. On 
June 9, 1896, he married Josephine Mather of Watervliet, Albany county, who is 
directly related to the celebrated Cotton Mather. Mr. McKallor's father, T. Quincy 
McKallor, was born in Washington county, N. Y., July 13, 1838, and was educated 
in the public schools. He followed the honorable occupation of farming and Sep- 
tember 29, 1852, he married Matilda P. Van Derkar of Waterford, and they had two 



66 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

children; Virginia M. and Edgar C. (as above). Mrs. McKallor's father, Thomas 
Van Derkar, was born Waterford, in 1787, and was a merchant and farmer. He 
married Maria Van Derworker of Mayfield, and they had ten children. The Mc- 
Kallor family are members of the Presbyterian church, and the ancestry of the 
family is Scotch, Dutch and English. 



McLees, Mrs. Mary. — The late James C. McLeeswas born in the township of Half- 
moon, June 7, 1831, educated in the schools of his day, and was one of the town's 
good farmers. November 26, 1845, he married Mary Sweet, of the town of Clifton 
Park, who was born July 20, 1827, and they had six children; Nathan D.. John J., 
George W., Ella H., Ethan J., and Emma M. George W. married Callie S. Arnold 
of Clifton Park; Ella H. married George F. Best of Round Lake, and they had two 
children, Gracie M., who died on May 24, 1893, aged si.x years, and Blanche E. Mr. 
McLees's father, Cornwall McLees, was born in Dutchess county, N. Y. , April 7, 
1781 ; married Mary Wright and came to this county at an early day. Mrs. Mary 
McLees's father, Nathan C. Sweet, was born in Dutchess county, N. Y. , July 7, 1803, 
educated in the public schools of his day and was a farmer. He married Permelia 
Weeks of the township of Malta, and they had five children; Mary, John W. , Eliza- 
beth, Catherine and Ethan L. Mr. Sweet died October 24, 1876, and his widow 
November 9, 1876. Mr. McLees died May 13, 1894, mourned by a bereaved wife and 
family. The family are members of the M. E. church. 



McNeal, John, son of David McNeal, was born July 23, 1835. His father was born 
in Washington county, and came to Saratoga when a young man ; he died in Wilton 
at the age of seventy-two years. Aaron McNeal, the progenitor of the McNeals in 
this country, came from Scotland in the eighteenth century and settled near Salem, 
Washington county. He was the great-great-grandfather of the subject. John Mc- 
Neal left home to do for himself at the age of twelve years. What education he 
obtained was in the public schools. Mr. McNeal's business interests have been those 
of farming and milling. He bought and sold grain, but has discontinued the milling 
interests. He has a fine herd of twenty cows, the product of which is converted into 
cream and is disposed of to hotels, dealers and private families. September 28, 1859, 
he married Mary Catherine Gailor, and their children are Daniel and Allen. He is 
a prominent member of the Wilton Baptist church. The farm is located on the old 
Saratoga road between Saratoga and Glens Falls, and is as near to the central part 
of the town of Wilton as it is possible to locate. The summit ridge which runs 
through the farm is the highest of any of the table lands between New York city and 
Montreal, Can 



McNulty, James D., was born in Saratoga Springs, where he has always resided. 
He was educated in the local public schools and the Troy Business College. This 
was supplemented with a thorough training in the newspaper business and for sev- 
eral years he was a reporter on the Saratogian and served that paper as local editor. 
His paragraphs were copied frequently by newspapers all over the United States. 
Mr. McNulty has held several public offices of trust and responsibility. For five 
years was e.xcise commissioner for the town of Saratoga Springs, having been elected 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 6? 

on the Democratic ticket by a plurality of nearly 400, and held the office of president 
of the commission several terms. He was deputy receiver of ta.\es of the town and 
village of Saratoga Springs for three years, and was the Democratic candidate for 
receiver of ta.xes in 1894, being defeated by only eighteen votes, although the head 
of the ticket was defeated by nearly .500 votes. During his connection with the re- 
ceiver's office, Mr. McNulty, by agitation and a great deal of personal effort, induced 
the authorities to have an asses.sor's map made, which, by cutting streets into sections, 
sections into blocks, and blocks into lots, placed every piece of realty accurately on 
the tax roll. Although it was an expensive undertaking, it paid for itself the first 
year, by adding to the tax list a great deal of property which had previously escaped 
taxation. In January, 1895, Mr. McNulty was chosen village clerk and although the 
the board of trustees was subsequently Republican for two years, the ability and 
integrity which he expressed in his labors caused his retention by the Republicans. 
Each year since 1895 he has been the unanimous choice of the board of trustees for 
the clerk of the village. During the season of 189(5 j\[r. McNulty was manager of the 
Columbian Hotel and in 1897 was its proprietor ; during the latter season he entertained 
many distinguished guests; among them were Hon. William J. Bryan, the Demo- 
cratic candidate for president ; Gov. W. D. Bloxham of Florida, and other statesmen 
of national reputation. Mr. McNulty is a Catholic and for several years was one of 
the five members of the board of trustees of the Catholic church of the village. He 
is of Irish-ScotchEnglish descent; his father, Charles Gill McNulty, is one of the 
oldest residents of Saratoga Springs; and with his mother resides at the Geysers, 
one of the pretty suburbs of Saratoga. On October 15, 1891, Mr. McNulty married 
Annie Veronica Swanick, a daughter of one of Saratoga's prominent citizens and a 
charming lady of many accomplishments, who supplemented her graduation from 
the Saratoga Academy by a course at Sage College, Cornell University. Mr, Mc- 
Nulty is a brother of Judge William D. McNulty, one of the leading attorneys of 
Saratoga county. He has three sisters: Sister M. Clare of the Franciscan Order and 
the Misses Margaret and Katherine McNulty; the latter residing with her parents at 
the Geysers. 



Mahew, William J., was born in Essex county, N. Y., June G, 1826. He attended 
the district schools and learned the blacksmith trade, and came to Mechanicville 
when twenty one years of age. March 3, 1864, he enlisted in Co. F, 88th Infantry 
N. y. 'Vols, (formerly the 20th N. Y. Militia), and was honorably discharged January 
29, 1866. He came to Usher's Station in 1867, where he has a good farm, also con- 
ducts a grocery store with a stock of fine groceries, fiour, feed, coal and fertilizers. 
On October 10, 1852, Mr. Mayhew married Anna M. Patrick of Mechanicville, N.Y., 
and they have four children; Margaret A., Samuel, Lillie and Childs. Margaret A. 
married Mynard De Groff, and they have one daughter, Lela; Samuel married Sarah 
Spain, and they have one daughter, Minnie ; Lillie married Nathaniel Waite, and 
they have one son, William; Childs married Alice Washburn, and they have one 
son, Frankie. Mr. Mahew's father, Samuel Mahew, was born in Canada about 1800, 
and came to the United States when fifteen years old. He married Submit Hart- 
well, of Hartford, Conn., and they had five children: Mary A., Jane, William J. (as 
above), Helen and Mary 2d. Mr. Mahew died in 1878 and his wife in 1830. Mr. 
Mahew is a member of Colonel E. E. Ellsworth Post of Mechanicville, No. 619, G. 



68 



OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 



A. R., Department of New York. In his political choice he is a staunch Republican. 
The ancestry of the family is French and Scotch. 



Manogue, D., was born in Ireland in 1848, and came to the United States in 1853 
with his parents Edward and Bridget Manogue. He was educated in Ballston Spa, 
and for thirty-five years has been identified as a contractor and builder. He erected 
St. Mary's church and many of the finest private residences in Ballston. In 1886 he 
established his present plant for the manufacture of sash, doors and blinds, and in 
connection with which he has an extensive lumber yard and carries all kinds of 
building material. In 1878 Mr. Manogue married Katherine Barrow, and they had 
seven children : Thomas, Edward, Francis, Agnes, Mary, Alice and Clara. Mr. 
Manogue is one of the self-made men of Saratoga county, taking an active interest 
in school and church matters and has ever advanced the best interests of his town 
and townspeople. 



Mansfield. Lewis William (P. O. Cohoes), was born at Kent, Conn., May 16, 1816. 
He received his preliminary education at Sharon, Conn., Montgomery, N. Y., and 
Chittenango, N. Y., and entered Union College, Schenectady, as a junior in 1833, 
graduating in 183.5, of which class there are now (October, 1898) but two survivors. 
Upon leaving college in 1835 he became associated with his brother-in-law, Hon. 
Hugh White of Waterford, in the manufacture of hydraulic cement at Whitesport, 
near Kingston, N. Y. This was the first hydraulic cement works in this State and 
the foundation of the present immense cement interests of the Hudson valley. In 
1847 Mr. Mansfield disposed of the cement works and went to Europe for the benefit 
of his health. He visited England and the various continental countries and was in 
Paris during the Revolution of 1848, witnessing the abdication of Louis Philippe and 
the birth of the French republic. On his return home he took up literary work, for 
which he had long had a strong inclination. In 18.50 he published "The Morning 
Watch," a narrative poem; in 1853 "Up Country Letters," and in 1855 "Country 
Margins." These works attracted much attention at the time in literary circles. In 
later years he publi-shed several works on religious and philosophical subjects. In 
1855 he embarked in the knitting business at Cohoes, N. Y., and was one of the pio- 
neers of that industry. He retired from business in 1865. He married three times, 
his first wife being Carrie M. Bayard; his second .Sarah B. Lewis of Geneseo, N. Y. , 
and his third Mary J. Hogan of Waterford. By his second wife he had two sons: 
William K. Mansfield and one who died in infancy. Lewis W. was the son of Will- 
iam Punderson Mansfield of Kent, Conn., who was the son of Capt. Joseph Mans- 
field of Mansfield Farms, near New Haven, Conn. The family, which is of German- 
English origin, settled near New Haven, Conn., in 1639, coming from E.xeter, 
Devonshire, England, and was among the first to settle in that locality. Sir John 
Mansfield, knight, was for many years mayor of E.xeter and master of the Minories 
and queen's surveyor under Queen Elizabeth. The family was well represented in 
the Revolutionary war and the war of 1812; also in the war of the Rebellion by Gen. 
Joseph K. Mansfield, who was killed at Antietara, September 17, 1862. William 
Knisell Mansfield, son of Lewis William, was born at Waterford, N. Y., September 
18, 1856. He was educated in the public schools of Cohoes and at Amherst College, 






PERSONAL REFERENCES. 69 

Amherst, Mass. In 1877 he entered business at Crescent, Saratoga county, where 
he remained until 1884, when he [purchased the Cohoes Daily News, which he con- 
ducted as editor and proprietor until July, 1897. In 1883 he married Ella Clute of 
Crescent, Saratoga county. He is a member and past master of Cohoes Lodge No. 
116, F. & A. M.. also a member and past high priest of Cohoes Chapter No. 168, R. 
A.M. He is a justice of the peace of the town of Waterford, having served in that 
capacity for twelve years and in 1899 enters upon his fourth term as justice in that 
town. He also served six years as a justice in the town of Halfmoon. He served as 
a clerk in the Assembly of 1898. 



Mart, Mrs. M. F., was born in Philadelphia, Jefferson county, N. Y., but has re- 
sided in Saratoga Springs since 1865. She has been in the millinery business for 
thirty years and in business for herself twenty-five years. She conducts the leading 
millinery establishment in Saratoga Springs and has made her business an art, and 
not only this, but she goes to New York every few weeks to keep herself posted on 
the latest styles and to maintain her establishment abreast of the times. She enjoys 
the patronage of the best class of Saratoga trade and is universally regarded as an 
accomplished artist in millinery. Mrs. Mart's parents were John H. and Fanny 
(Scofiekl) Comstock; her grandfather, Thaddeus Scofield, was a soldier in the war of 
1812, and her great-grandfathers, Daniel Wood and Israel Phelps, were Revolution- 
ary soldiers, both being present at the surrender of General Burgoyne. 



Martin, Francis A., was born in Waterford, N. Y., August 8, 1873, educated in the 
Waterford High School, and the School of the Christian Brothers at Albany, N. Y. 
He read law with I. C. & C. C. Ormsby of Waterford, and was graduated from the 
Albany Law School in 1894, and has practiced here since with success. His father. 
Patrick Martin, was born in Ireland and came to the United States when sixteen 
years old, locating first in New York city, where he was a brass moulder by trade, 
and came to Waterford about 1857. 



Mead, Edwin, was born in the town of Charlton, September 11, 1839, a son of 
Lewis and Sarah (H nested) Mead. His father married twice; his first wife was 
Esther, daughter of Reuben Huested, and they had seven children: Mary Ann, 
Elizabeth, Jessie, Reuben H., Lewis, Edwin (deceased), and one who died in in- 
fancy; after the death of his first wife Mr. Mead married his first wife's sister, Sarah, 
and they had three children: Edwin, Anson, and one who died in infancy. Edwin 
Mead was educated in the common schools of the town of Ballston and Jonesville 
Academy. When he was twelve years of age his father died and some time before 
he became of age he took charge of his father's estate. When he was twenty-one 
years of age he went to New York, where he was employed in the wholesale lumber' 
business and remained there about a year. In 1861 he returned home and taught 
school ; in 1863 he started in as a wholesale dealer and shipper of farm produce, also 
coal and lumber, flour and feed business, which he carries on at the present time. 
He is interested in town and county afi'airs, has been postmaster for about thirteen 
years and at present is justice of the peace; he is also very much interested in edu- 
cational work and was one of the organizers of the graded school. He is a member 



TO OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

of the Episcopal charch. of which he has been senior warden and collector many 
years. Mr. Mead married Elizabeth, daughter of William P. and Milissa Cutler, 
and they had three children: Ralph C, Paul A., and Belle Elizabeth (deceased). 



Mead. Philip, was bom in Fulton county. X. Y., August 30. 1S31, a son of Ralph 
E. and Isabel (Stewart) Mead, he bom in Fulton county and she born in Perth. N.Y. 
Mr Mead's grandfather came from Connecticut to Falton county early in life and 
there lived and died. Philip Mead was reared as a blacksmith and educated in the 
common schools. He came to live with an uncle in Providence about two years and 
in 1S57 came to Hagadorn's Mills and has since remained here. In 1869 he married 
C. Olivia Hagadom. and they had one son. Walter S., bom June S. 1871. Mrs. 
Mead's father, Stephen L. Hagadom, built the mills at this place, and was superin- 
tendent of the town schools; he died in 1S92 and his wife in 1894. Mr. Mead is a 
Republican and was supervisor of the town in 1876. 1884, and 1892. The maternal 
g^ndparents of Mrs. Mead were natives of Connecticut and came on horseback 
from Connecticut to this county. In 1863 Mr. Mead enlisted in Co. A, S-2d U. S. 
Infantrv. as first lieutenant and was discharged in 1864. 



Meader, Isaac W. — Mr. Meader's ancestors were of good old Welsh stock and just 
previous to the Revolutionary war his gpreat-grandfather, Robert Meader. accom- 
Danied by his two brothers, came to America and settled in Xantucket. R. I. One 
of the brothers afterward removed to the State of Massachusetts, the other went to 
sea and was never heard from, while Robert Meader, also a sea captain, removed to 
Easton. Washington county, in 1783, and settled upon a farm. He was great-grand- 
father of Isaac Meader, and grandfather of Frederick Meader, who was bom at 
Easton on the -Sth day of December, 1816. and who still sur\-ives at the age of eighty- 
two years. Xo patriarch or pioneer of the earlier days has a more honorable or ab- 
sorbino- record than the father of the su'oiect of this sketch. An adequate history of 
his operations as a carpenter and bnilder and business man during the active years 
of his life would necessitate ten times more space than can be given in a work of this 
kind. At sixteen years of age he engaged to work for a farmer for one year for 
sixty dollars, losing only two days during all that time; at eighteen he worked for 
another partv for two years, losing only three days' time; and at twenty-two he 
learned the carpenter's trade at Quaker Springs. His first job was that of building 
the farm hotise of John Kirkpatrick, and he built the hotel at Quaker Springs. 
When only twenty -four years old he lost all he possessed through the dishonesty of 
the partv for whom he did the work. The scope of his buildings included every 
town in the conntv and comprised churches, hotels, schools, residences, depots, 
public buildings, etc. Mr. Meader has been a useful citizen, a staunch supporter of 
the church and temperance cause and can be set down as one whose place will be 
hard to fill once he is removed from it. Isaac Meader was bom in Quaker Springs 
in 1841. He early learned the carpenter's trade of his father, and when twenty-two 
years of age succeeded S. F. Bradt in the business of general merchant at Quaker 
Springs, where he has built up a flourishing trade He was educated in the common 
schools, and in politics is a prominent Republican, and is postmaster at Quaker 
Springs. In 1867 Mr. Meader married Catherine Frances, daughter of John Lohnes, 



PERSONAL REFERENXES. 71 

and the)- have two children : Frederick and Mary, -srife of E. C. Griffin of Albany, 
who have two children, Chauncey and Isaac, the latter being named for his grand- 
father. Mr. Meader has seven brother^ s- ' -'i-ee sisters all living. 

Mealey, James, son of Cornelius Mealey, -.vaj l.om in Fort Miller in 1858. educated 
in the common schools, and began business life as a clerk for Thomas Toohey of 
Scbuylerville, in whose employ he remained eight years. Afterward he engaged 
with H. A. McRea in his store and succeeded him in the business in 1889. Mr. 
Mealey carries a general stock of dry goods, boots and shoes, groceries, crockery, 
etc., one of the largest and most complete stores in his section. Mr. Mealey's 
brothers are John, merchant and postmaster at Greenwich; Cornelius and Andrew, 
also of Greenwich, the latter being assistant postmaster at that place. In politics 
Mr. Mealey is a Democrat, was elected supervisor in 1890 and town clerk in 1886-87. 
He is a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and was for five years president 
of the local lodge. In 1881 he married Julia McCullough, and they had four children : 
Esther, Frank, ilarv and Catherine. 



Medbery, Horace J., was bom in Schenectady. X. Y., August 10, 1845. a son of 
Stephen B. and Sarah il. Medbery, of the pioneer families of Saratoga county. 
They trace their ancestry back to Roger Williams and to the Mayflower. Horace J. 
Medbery was educated in BaUston and Dr. Babcock's Academy. In 1864 he enlisted 
in Company D, One Hundred and Ninety-second New York Volunteers and served 
to the end of the war as private secretary to General Thomas. In 1868 he estab- 
hshed a manufactory for making paper collars ; in 1876 he went into the paper busi- 
ness at Xewburgh ; in 1878 went to ilechanicville and leased property for the manu- 
facture of paper, and in 1881 and 1882 organized the Hudson River Water Power & 
Paper Company, at Mechanicville. In 1892 he organized The Fiberite Company, of 
which he is president In 1869 he married Alicia, daughter of Nathaniel Montrose, 
and they have three sons and one daughter: Montrose, Stuart, Malcolm and Alicia- 
In 1898 he organized the Warren-Medbery Company, of which he is president, at 
Sandy Hill, N. Y., and entered largelj- into the manufacture of dynamos and electri- 
cal supplies for electric light and power transmission. Mr. Medbery is one of the 
representative business men of Saratoga county, taking an intelligent interest in 
educational and religious institutions and has ever advanced the best interests of his 
town and townspeople. 



Middlebrook, E. R., was bom in Milton, February 15. 1834. His father, Ralph 
Middlebrook, was a-native of the same town, a son of Hezekiah Middlebrook who 
was one of the pioneere. Ralph married Harriet Betts and was engaged in milling 
and farming. He was one of the builders of the Baptist church and a man whose 
judgment was sought and respected by all; he died in 1876. E. R. Middlebrook was 
graduated from Madison University in 1859, and engaged in sugar refining for two 
years. In 1S61 he joined the army, remaining in the government emplov for six 
years. In 1895 he came to BaUston Spa and entered the employ of Hon. George 
West. In 1863 he married Emily S., daughter of Elisha Payne, and they have one 
son, Ralph P., and one daughler, Helen Caroline. Mr. Middlebrook is the repre- 



72 OUR COUNTY ANU ITS PEOPLE. 

sentative of one of the pioneer families of Ballston Spa, and takes an intelligent 
interest in school and church matters and has ever been recognized as a man of con- 
servative character, who has ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 



Miller, E. L., was born in Ticonderoga, Essex county, N. Y., December 3G, 1847, 
a son of Edwin Miller, who was a manufacturer of axes and tools. Edwin married 
Sarah I Jutcher and died in 18G8. E. L. Miller was educated in the common schools, 
and learned the axe trade. In 1888 he established his present business of general 
store on Maple avenue, Ballston, in partnership with W. H. Cowles. In 1890 he 
purchased Mr. Cowles's interest and now conducts the business alone. In 1875 he 
married Mary B. , daughter of Patrick Mooney, and they have two sons, Walter and 
Asa. Mr. Miller is one of the enterprising business men of the town and takes an 
active interest in school and church matters. He is recognized as a man of sterling 
integrity, who has ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 



Miner, Willard J., was born in the city of Cohoes, February 19, 1848, but most of 
his youthful days were spent in Canajoharie, Montgomery county, and his early edu- 
cational opportunities were very restricted. While but ^ youth he entered the Gil- 
bert car shops and worked there for eleven years, and while there learned the alpha- 
bet under Rev. B. B. Loomis of Troy conference, after which he came to Saratoga 
Springs and began the study of law in the office of Van Rensselaer & Hill. His ad- 
vance from this time was rapid, being admitted to the bar of Saratoga county Janu- 
ary 38, 1881, and to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States February 4, 
1887. To-day he has few peers in the State as a criminal lawyer and envoys a high 
reputation as counsel. Mr. Miner is also widely known as a prominent Odd Fellow 
and member of the Knights of Pythias, not only because he has passed to high de- 
grees in these societies, but also because of his lectures before these organizations. 
Particularly deserving of mention are his lectures entitled, " Why I Became an Odd 
Fellow," ■' Odd Fellowship," "Why I Remain an Odd Fellow," '■ Death," and "After 
Death, What?" Mr. Miner's parents were Marvin and Rebecca Ann (Mitchell) 
Miner and his grandfather was Oliver Miner, born in Scotland, but who spent most 
of his life in Herkimer county, N. Y. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and his 
father, Robert Miner, was the progenitor of the Miner family in America. 



Monroe, Dr. Edwin A., was born in Waterville, Oneida county, N. Y., October 5, 
1837, a son of Arunah and Phoebe C. Monroe. His parents moved to Watertown, 
Jefferson county, N. Y. , in 184.1, and Dr. Monroe was educated in the Jefferson 
County Institute, Watertown, and studied dentistry in the ofHce of Bowman Bros., 
Canton, N. Y. He then studied medicine for three years with James T. Peden of 
Carthage, N. Y., taking a course in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, New 
York city. He began the practice of dentistry in Watertown in 1862, and subsequently 
in Carthage and on Bond street, New York city, establishing himself in Saratoga 
Springs in 1883, where he has built up a line practice. In ISO! Dr. Monroe married 
Clara R. Ellis of Canton, N. Y., and they have two sons: William E. and Edwin C. 
Dr. Monroe is a member of Rising Sun Lodge, F. & A. M., and of Rising Sun Chap- 
ter No. 131, R. A. M. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 73 

Montaaye, George N., was born near Sloansville, Schoharie coanly, N. V., July 
34, 1845. a son of George Vosler and Susan (Crocker) Montanye. George N. Mon- 
tanye was the thh'J generation of the family in Schoharie county. He was reared 
on his father's farm, and when twenty jears of age took a clerkship in a general store 
in Sloansville, where he remained three years, and then went to Middleburgas clerk 
for one year, then returned to farming for six years. lie then entered into partner- 
ship in the store in Sloansville, where he first clerked, and there remained three 
years, when he came to Greenfield Centre and conducted a stock company store for 
two and a half years. At this time he removed to Saratoga Springs where he was in 
the hardware business for si.'i years as clerk. In 1892 he entered into partnership 
with Elmer E. Durkee in the coal business and the firm still exists. On December 
(), 1871, Mr. Montanye married Aurelia S. Blodget, and they have three sons: H. 
Percy, Warren A., and C. Ernest. H. Percy Montanye is a graduate of the Albany 
Business College and Warren A. of the Saratoga High School, class of 1898. 



Moore, George M., was born in the city of Bristol, England, December 1(1, 1843, 
and in 1848 came to the United States with his parents, locating in Lewiston, Niag. 
ara county, N. Y., and soon after in Le Roy, Genesee county, where he was edu- 
cated in the Le Roy Academy. April 19, 18G1, he enlisted in Co. G, Twenty eighth 
Infantry, N. Y. Volunteers, at Albion, Orleans county, N. Y., under General Banks; 
was wounded in the battle at Winchester, and at Chancellorsville was taken prisoner, 
confined in Libby Prison for three months, and honorably discharged at Lockport, N. 
Y., June 3, 18G3. He taught school thirteen years and is now a farmer. Ajjril 18, 
186G, he married Ellen Briggs of Stillwater, and they had six children; EdnaM., 
Catherine E. , Jemima I. (who died at the age of three year.s). Alvira L. , Sarah L. , 
and Ella M. Edna M. married Charles I. Abel, and they have two children, Blanche 
L., and Floyd E. Catherine E. married Frederick Schnurle, and they have two 
sons, George F., and Harold F. Mr. Moore's father. Rev. Dr. David Moore, was 
born at the old home in England, in the year 1818; he was a teacher in early life 
and married a Scotch lady, and they had one son, George M. They came to the 
United States in 1 848, and he became a noted Baptist minister; he now lives a re- 
tired life in Geneva, N. Y. Mrs. Moore's father, John L. Briggs, was born at 
Mechanicville, April :!, 181C; married Catherine Poucher, and they had seven chil- 
dren; John W., Benjamin A., Ellen, William II., James W., Lucius and Eli. Mr. 
Briggs died in I8G8 and his wife died the same year, a few weeks prior. Mr. Moore 
is a member of Col. Elmer E. Ellsworth Post of Mechanicville, No. 619, G. A. R., 
Department of New York, was its chaplain from its organization until 1898, and is 
now its commander. 



Morris, John II., one of the leading lawyers of Saratoga county, was born in Sara- 
toga Springs, May 31, 180'). He received his literary education in the schools of 
Saratoga Springs, and began the activities of life as a reporter, and for several sea- 
sons was engaged in this field, profiting by its broadly educating duties. On Sep- 
tember 1'2, 1884, he was appointed assistant secretary of the Board of Education and 
liis valuable services were retained for five years. On October 1, 1889, he entered 
the law office of Hon. Theodore F. Hamilton, as a law student, and was admitted to 



74 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the bar May 8, 1891, at the general term in Albany, and he continued in the office of 
Mr. Hamilton until the end of 1894, profiting greatly by his association with that 
able jurist. On January 1, 189.'), Mr. Morris severed his business relations with Mr. 
Hamilton and began the general practice of law by him.self, which he continues to 
the present time with marked success. In the summer of 1896 Mr. Morris erected a 
handsome residence on Lake avenue, and in the autumn of that year.on October 28,in 
St. Patrick's church on Central avenue, in the city of Albany, Mr. Morris was united 
in holy wedlock by the pastor. Rev. Philip Smith, to Sara Zita Kennath, youngest 
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Kennath of that city, and one of the fairest young 
ladies of the capital. After a brief wedding trip to the city of Montreal, Mr. and 
Mrs. Morris began housekeeping in their new comfortable home. On September 13, 
1897, this happy home was made more cheerful by the arrival of a bright baby girl, 
whom they named Margaret. On March 2, 1897, at the annual town meeting, Mr. 
Morris was elected justice of the peace by a large majority, which office he assumed 
on January 1. 1898, and that he will do honor to the office to which he has been 
elected by the people is beyond (juestion. The predominating characteristics of his 
boyhood are firmly lived up in young manhood— honor and faithfulness to every trust 
reposed in him, and his future seems brighter than ever. Mr. Morris is a Catholic 
in religion, a Democrat in politics, and is prommently associated with St. Peter's 
church and its societies, and whether in i>olitics or business, his sterling integrity 
and recognized ability have won for him the confidence of all men. 

Morris, Sidney E., was born in Cialway, July Hi, 1874, a son of Allen E. and Anna- 
netta (Allen) Morris. Isaac Morris, grandfather of Sidney E., spent most of his life 
in Fulton county and was in the late war. Allen E. is a farmer and is justice of the 
peace, having held that office nine years. His wife died February 6, 1895. Sidney 
E. was educated in the common .schools and is a farmer, having a farm of 145 acres. 
On December 33, 1896, he married Carrie Mead, daughter of William Mead of Gal- 
wav. William Mead was born in Columbia county and came to Galway when a 
young man and here died January 19, 1892. his wife, Mary Walter Mead, re.sides 
with her daughter. 



Morton, George W., was born in the town o{ Hartford, Conn., son of George and 
Loretta (Warner) Morton. His grandfather, Benjamin Morton, was a native of 
Welhersfield, Conn., and served for si.x days as a Revolutionary soldier in the Lex- 
ington Alarm, April, 1778. He was born in 1745, son of John, born in 1702. son of 
Thomas, born in 1665. George W. Morton was reared on a farm, but took up a 
mercantile career, which he continued in his native place for twenty-seven years; 
since then he has resided in Saratoga Springs, where he has confined himself to 
operations in real estate. Mr. Morton married Emily A. Hills, daughter of Marcus 
Stanley and Harriet (Vosburgh) Wheeler. Mrs. Morton is a prominent member of 
the Daughters of the American Revolution, her grandfather. Captain Truman 
Wheeler, having V)een a Revolutionary soldier. He was made muster master in 1776 
in Berkshire county, Mass. He mustered into service and equipped 980 men, and in 
September, 1777, as captain, he brought eighty men to Saratoga, engaging in all the 
operations leading up to the surrender of Burgoyne. He died at Great Harrington, 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 75 

April 19. 1815. Mrs. Morton has two children; Mark H. Hills of Hartford, Conn., 
and Mrs. Harriet M. Smith, wife of Frank H. Smith of Saratoga Springs, and they 
have one daughter. Bertha Morton Smith. Mrs. Smith is corresponding secretary of 
the Saratoga Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her grand- 
mother Hills was a lineal descendant of John Porter, who emigrated from England 
subsequent to the granting of a charter for the colony of Massachusetts Bay in lf)2H. 
and of Thomas Stanley, who came from England in the ship Planter in 1085 and be- 
longed to the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company in 1640 Bertha Morton 
Smith, born in Saratoga Springs, June 26, 1891, is a member of the Bemis Heights 
Society of the Children of the American Revolution, and is a descendant from a long 
line of distinguished colonial and Revolutionary ancestors. 



Mossey, Thomas, was born in Canada in 1847, and came to the United States with 
his parents when thirteen years old, locating first in Vermont and then came to Co- 
hoes in 1863. He has resided on the north side in VVaterford sixteen years, conduct- 
ing a saloon. July 10, 1868, he married Levine Emery, and they had twelve children, 
eight of whom survive: Lavine, Mary Jane, Thomas, jr., Augusta, Clara, John, 
Arthur and William. Lavine married Joseph Harveu.K of Waterford, and they have 
three children : Henry. Eva and Ernest. Mary J. married Napoleon Dufort ; Thomas, 
jr., is a merchant near his father; he married Julia Laporte, and they have one son, 
Leo T. Mr. Mossey in his political choice is a Republican. The family are members 
of the north side Roman Catholic church. 



Muhlfelder, J. D., was born in Germany, July 9, 1854, and came to the United 
States in 1868, settling in Ballston and entered the employ of M. Schwarz & Co. 
In 1872 he engaged in mercantile busmess for himself and in 1877 opened his store 
on Front street. In 1891 he erected tlie block which bears his name and at the pres- 
ent time is carrying the leading stock of dry goods, millinery, cloaks, and house 
furnishing goods. In 1882 he married Henrietta Manister, and they have two chil- 
dren; Lulu and Manister. Mr. Muhlfelder is one of the leading men of his town and 
takes an intelligent interest in school and village matters and has ever received and 
merited the respect of his associates. 



Myers, Morris, was born at Ketchum's Corners, June 1, 1855, educated in the district 
schools and the school of observation. His early life was spent on the home farm, 
which has been owned by the family since 1854, and he is owner of the same now in 
1898. He was a general merchant in Pultney, Vt., from 1883 to 1891, was on the 
farm again for two years and came to Mechanicville in 1893 and became a stock- 
holder and secretary of the Mechanicville Knitting Co. He was married twice; first, 
in 1875, to Jennie A. (iarrison, of his native place and they had one son, Fayette 
Garrison, who is now in the knitting mill witli his father. Mrs. Myers died April 29, 
1893. For his second wife, on May 22, 1895. he married Mae L. Matthews, of Me- 
chanicville, formerly of Sidney, N. Y. Mr. Myers's father, Thomas Myers, was born 
at the old home in the vicinity of Ketchum's Corners, December 8, 1808, educated in 
the schools of his day and was a farmer by occupation. He married Annie Barber 
of his native place, and they had eight children: C. Harvey, Maria. Isaac B., Pa- 



76 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

tience, Sarah C, Jane A., Charles B., and Morris (as above). Thomas Myers died 
January 10, 1887, and his widow December 5, 1891. Morris Myers's grandfather, 
Isaac Myers, was born near the old home; the family came here from Dutchess 
county. Mrs. Myers's father, William Matthews, was born at Bridge water. Pa., in 
1833, educated in the common schools and was engaged in various occupations, car- 
pentering chiefly. He married Louisa B. Hartt ot New Milford, Pa., and they had 
four children: Frederick A., Ida A., Herbert W. and Mae L. (as above). Mr. Mat- 
thews died April 27, 1888; his widow survives at this date. 1898. Mr. and Mrs. Myers 
are members of the M. E. church ; he holds the office of president of the Epworlh 
League. In his political choice he is a thorough Republican. The ancestry of the 
family is German, English and Welsh. 



Newman, Rev. J. P., D. D., was born in New York city, September, 1826, and 
early in life evinced pronounced religious aspirations. He united with the church at 
sixteen years of age, and entered the ministry in the Oneida conference in 1848; he 
was transferred to the Troy conference in 1855 and shortly afterwards to the New 
York conference and was stationed in New York city. In 1860 he visited Europe 
and the east and when he returned to America published his celebrated book '• From 
Dan to Beersheba." In 1864 he was sent to New Orleans to organize the Methodist 
Episcopal church in the southwest and succeeded greatly. A fine church and semi- 
nary were built, a religious newspaper started and an orphan asylum founded by 
him. In 1869 he became pastor of the Metropolitan church in Washington and was 
thrice chaplain of the U S. Senate. He was appointed inspector of consuls by Pres- 
ident Grant in 1873, and crossed the Pacific to the Orient, where he visited China, 
Japan and other countries; when he returned home he published "Thrones and 
Palaces of Babylon and Ninevah." He subsequently became for a third time pastor 
of the Washington Metropolitan church. Dr. Newman was then made a bishop of 
the Methodist Episcopal church, and for some years has earnestly devoted himself to 
the duties of that high ofKce. 



O'Connor, Thomas, was born at Waterford, .Saratoga county, N. Y., October 6, 
1805, and obtained his education in the public schools of Waterford, completing his 
studies in 18,S2. He read law with Isaac C. Ormsby of Waterford four years, and 
in November, 1886. was admitted to the bar. He at once began his practice at 
Waterford with marked success. In May, 1887, he was appointed village attorney, 
serving the people in that capacity with much ability six consecutive years. Sep- 
tember 17, 1890, he married Margaret Fitzsimmons, and they had four children: 
Thomas M., who died in his second year. George E., Joan E. and Gerald W. Mr. 
O'Connor's father, Michael O'Connor, was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, March 
15, 1830, educated in their .schools and came to the United States when a young boy 
of fourteen, locating in Waterford, where he was a contractor and builder. He 
married twice, Hrst in 18.50 to Ellen Dunn, and they had four children: Michael, Jo- 
seph, Benjamin and William. Mrs. O'Connor died December 10, 1861, and on De- 
cember 25, 1864, Mr. O'Connor married Johanna Barry, and they had three sons: 
Thomas (as above), Gerald J., and Edmund A. Michael is an architect at Hudson, 
N. Y. ; Gerald J. is in the government weather bureau ; and Edmund A. is a priest 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 77 

in the Roman Catholic University of America at Washington, D. C. Mrs. O'Con- 
nor's father, George Fitzsimmons. was born in Ireland and came to the United States 
when a young man, locating in Warren county, N. Y. He was superintendent of a 
large tannery and was a farmer. He married Rose A. McMuUen, who was born in 
Hudson, N. Y., and they had four children; Henry, Charles, Ellen and Margaret. 
Mr. O'Connor is president of the Firemen's Association of the State of New York, 
elected in 1897 and re-elected in 1898, and is chief engineer of the village volunteer 
fire department of Waterford. He has been clerk and treasurer of the board of ed- 
ucation six terms, and in politics is a staunch Democrat. 



Osgood, StarksS., was born in Essex county in 1844, a son of Soloman W. and 
Ann (Bates) Osgood, and was educated in the commou schools. He started out in 
life at the age of twenty-five, working for his uncle. Rev. Davis Osgood, a clergyman 
of the M. E. church. There he married Samantha France and came to Saratoga 
county in 1874; they have two sons: Jesse and Fred. Mr. Osgood carries on gen- 
eral farming and is engaged largely in strawberry culture. He has 102 acres of land 
which he purchased five years ago and in that short time has brought it up to a high 
state of cultivation. He was for twelve years on the Marcus Richards farm at Fort 
Edward and four years on the James McDaniels farm. 



Ostrander, Vibert W., son of William P. Ostrander, was born in the town of North- 
umberland in 1849, and educated in the common schools. His father was a farmer 
and speculator at the time of Mr. Ostrander's early childhood. The family came to 
Schuylerville after the war and settled in the vicinity where the beautiful Saratoga 
monument is erected, and Mr. Ostrander is now custodian of the monument, em- 
ployed by the State. In 1870 he married Matilda Sample, and they had three chil- 
dren, two now living: William P. 3d, and Agnes S. Mr. Ostrander is a brother of 
W. S. Ostrander, a well known attorney and postmaster at Schuylerville. In poli- 
tics he has always been a Republican and while never of the ultra sort has always 
been a consistent worker in the ranks of that party. He is a citizen highly respected 
by the community m which he lives and where he is best known. 

Packer, Joseph Homer, was born in the town of Charlton, Saratoga county, N. Y., 
March 17, 1854, educated in the district schools and Charlton Academy. At the age 
of si.xteen he became a clerk and followed this vocation in various places for twelve 
years. November 11, 1883, he engaged in the dry goods business in Mechanic ville 
for himself, which he has conducted since with increasing success. On January 1, 
1884, he married Nellie J. Smith. Mr. Packer is a stockholder and director in the 
First Manufacturers' National Bank of Mechanicville; also a stockholder and direc- 
tor in the Mechanicville Knitting Co. Mr. and Mrs. Packer are members of the M. 
E. church and he is a member of On-da-wa Lodge No. 820, F. & A. M. Mr. Packer's 
father, William A. Packer, was born near the old home in Charlton, March 14, 1826, 
educated in the common schools and follows the honorable occupation of farming. 
He married Mary R. Valentine of his native place and they had five children : Will- 
iam R., Joseph H. (as above), Althea M. (who died in September, 1897), Julia E. and 
Fred. Mrs. Packer died in October, 1896. Mrs. Packer's father, John H. Smith, 



78 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

was born in the town of Greenfield, Saratoga county, September 32, 1823, educated 
in the schools of his day and was a contractor and builder in Gloversville six years. 
He was a paper manufacturer at Middlegrove several years and retired from active 
business in 1890. On May 12, 1844, he married Emmaliss Gorton, who was born in 
the township of Mayfield, Fulton county, N. Y. , in November, 1826, and they had 
six children: Charles E. , Francelia (who died in her second year), Melvin A., John 
Wesley, Sarah F. and Nellie J. Mr. and Mrs. Smith now reside in Mechanicville on 
South Main street. The Smith family came from England and located iu Rhode 
Island in 1668; the Gortons also came from there and located near Providence, R. I., 
in 1636. 



Parks, Marvin B., deceased, and Gertrude A. Cooper, deceased; leaving three 
sons and two daughters: S. H. of Sandy Hill; H. B. , of South Glens Falls; Mrs. Ma- 
ria Adams of Glens Falls; Mrs. Nelson O. Wood of South Glens Falls; and Marvin 
B. , jr. Mr. Parks was born in 1843, educated in the common schools and academy, 
and remained at home on the farm until twenty-one years of age, when he engaged 
in business with his father, still remaining under the family roof tree where he still 
resides. Until 1893 he was in the employ of Richards & Marty and other lumber 
firms engaged in river work, sorting and handling logs. Five years ago he relin- 
(juished the river business and has since devoted his entire time and attention to the 
requirements of his farm. March 1, 1868, Mr. Parks married Amy J. Bartlett, who 
died in 1886, leaving four children: Jennie, wife of Ray S. Sherman, a merchant of 
South Glens Falls; Edwin H. of Troy, N. Y. ; Carrie, wife of Ellsworth Jacobie; and 
Arthur D. In 1890 Mr. Parks again married, Mrs. Elsie Ball, and they had one 
daughter, Florence, who died in infancy. Daniel Parks, the hero of Fort George, 
was a paternal great-grandfather of Mr. Parks and the daring exploit he conducted, 
resulting in the capture of Fort George (now Caldwell), is pointed to with just pride 
by the numerous family who bear his name. 



Parmenter, A. L., was born in Cornith, April 30, 1854, a son of Alexander and 
Rosetta (Cowles) Parmenter, he born in Luzerne, in 1813. and she in Corinth in 
1813. Alexander Parmenter came to Corinth when a young man and for many years 
was engaged in the mercantile business. In 1837 he married his wife and they had 
five children. A. L. Parmenter was reared and educated in Corinth village and was 
engaged in the mercantile business with his father until his father's death, when 
he engaged with the Hudson River Pulp & Paper Co., and at present is bookkeeper 
and shipping clerk for the International Paper Co. In 1879 he married Sarah F., 
daughter of Cyrus Washburn, and they have one son Louie A. Mr. Parmenter in 
politics is a Republican and was town clerk several years and at present is notary 
public. 

Patrick, George H., one of the prominent and successful farmers of the town of 
Saratoga Springs, is a son of Henry and Mary Ann (Rouse) Patrick, and was born 
on the farm on which he now resides, in the town of Saratoga Springs, Saratoga 
county, N. Y. , July 12, 1840. He grew to manhood on the paternal acres, received 
his education in the common schools and then engaged in farming, which he fol- 
lowed successfully ever since. He now owns his father's farm and homestead, to 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 70 

which he has added by successive purchases until he uow has a fine and well im- 
proved farm of 200 acres of land on which is a nice residence. In connection with 
farming Mr. Patrick operates a dairy. He is a Republican in politics and a member 
of Rising Sun Lodge No. 103, Free and Accepted Masons, and has always been 
known as a pleasant and agreeable man of sterling reputation. Mr. Patrick has 
been twice married; first, on December 18, 1861, to Nancy M. Chase, daughter of 
John Chase of the town of Malta, who died June 32. 1880, leaving two daughters: 
Anna, wife of William H. Corrigan, and Gertrude, wife of Charles S. Warring, both 
of Saratoga Springs. On October 31, 1894, Mr. Patrick married Mrs. Mary A. 
Koonz, who had one son, Frank A. Koonz, a graduate of the Albany Business Col- 
lege, who is now employed by the Thomas & Brown Coal Co. as bookkeeper. Mrs. 
Patrick was a daughter of the late Alexander A. Van Epps of Ballston Spa, N. Y. 



Peckhara, Allen Giflford, M. D., was born in Easton, Washington county, N. Y., 
December 6, 1846. He obtained an academic education, studied in the Albany 
Medical College and was graduated from Hahnemann Homoeopathic Medical Col- 
lege of Philadelphia in 1871, and has practiced in Waterford with marked success. 
December 26, 1872, he married Mary E. Eddy, and they had two sons, Harvey N. , 
who died at the age of si.x years, and Herald Percy, a student in Troy Academy. 
Dr. Peckham's father, Joseph W. Peckham, was born in Easton, July 25, 1818, and 
received a liberal education. It was said of him by afriend; " He was a gentleman 
by birth and education; literary in taste, he kept in touch with the great minds of 
the age. He was public spirited, benevolent and just. A lover of liberty, he lived 
to see the fetters fall and the bondsmen free. He had a rich vein of humor and a 
fund of information which made him excel in conversation and social intercourse. 
He gathered around him choice and illustrious men and women and entertained 
with grace and hospitality." On October 19, 1840, he married Elizabeth Gifford, 
and they had seven children: Chloe A., Emily, Mary, Lydia G., Allen G., Garrison 
and John J., a physician in California. Mr. Peckham died January 29, 1883, and 
his widow died May 1, 1898. Mrs. Peckham's father, Thomas Jefferson Eddy, was 
born in Vermont, May 17, 1809, educated in the schools of his day and came to Troy 
in 1830. He was a business man and attained success in manufacturing colored and 
printing inks. He was a man of liberal and broad culture and retired early in life to 
enjoy the comforts of a refined home. In 1833 he married Lucy McGuire, and they 
had six children: I. Newton, Harriet F., Charles C, Elizabeth A., Thomas B. and 
Mary E. Mr. Eddy died March 7, 1S93, and his wife May 23, 1887. Dr. Peckham 
is a member of the Presbyterian church; Mrs. Peckham of the Baptist. 



Peters, Hon. E. H., was born at Clifton Park, November 22, 1841, and was edu- 
cated at Jonesville Academy and at Troy Conference Academy, Poultney, Vt. He 
read law in the office of Joseph A. Shoudy and vpas admitted to the bar in May. 1863. 
He has practiced law in Saratoga Springs since that date; was justice of the peace 
for a term and in 1877 was elected surrogate. He took office January 1, 1878, and 
has held the office continuously ever since and has discharged the duties of his office 
with ability and has strengthened his popularity throughout the county. In 1868 
Judge Peters married Abbie J. Carpenter, and they have two daughters; Julia A. 



80 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Peters, surrogate's clerk, and Jeanne Bingham, wife of William M. Martin. Judge 
Peters's parents were Thomas M. and Julia A. Peters, natives of Saratoga county; 
his grandfather was Samuel Peters, whose father, Richard Peters, was one of the 
early settlers of this county and who took up a large tract of land in the township of 
Clifton Park. Judge Peters is a strong Republican and is held in high esteem by 
his party. 



Pierson, William A., was born July 30, 1859, in the village of Saratoga Springs. 
After graduation from a preparatory school in Morrisville, Vt., he began teaching 
as principal of the school at Elmore, Vt., to enable him to attend the U. V. M. at 
Burlington. He taught in all two years, and being unable by reason of ill health to 
complete a college course came to Saratoga Springs and in 1879 entered the law 
office of Pond, French & Brackett, but subsequently changed to the office of Hon. J. 
R. Putnam, and was admitted to the bar in 1883, since which date he has been 
activelv and successfully engaged in the practice of his profession in Saratoga. In 
1888 he was elected justice of the peace for four years and subsequently held the 
office of police justice for a term, and has served a term as member of the board of 
education. Judge Pierson is a staunch Republican and was at one time secretary of 
the Republican League of the State of New York ; his voice has much weight in the 
councils of his party. He is also a prominent Mason and has passed to the degree 
of Knight Templar. Judge Pierson's parents were Thomas and Amanda (Ains- 
worth) Pierson and he is a lineal descendant of Rev. Abraham Pierson who came 
over from England in 1639 and settled in Boston ; his son. Rev. Abraham, w-as one 
of the early presidents of Yale College. Judge Pierson's great-grandfather, Jere. 
miah Pierson, was one of the first settlers in Saratoga county, and his son Jeremiah 
was father of Thomas Pierson. the father of Judge Pierson. 



Potter, Emory, was boru in Cortland county, N. Y., October 14, 1831, and lived in 
that county until thirty-two years of age, except two years of the time spent in the 
west teaching. He received a liberal public school education and then spent several 
terms in a private school, when he took up the study of medicine and matriculated 
at the Hygeia Therapeutic Medical College. New York city, in March, 18G0. He has 
never practiced medicine, having taking up the study solely for the benefit of the 
knowledge to himself. For seventeen years Mr. Potter taught school in connection 
with farming, residing in Illinois from 1863 to 1873. In 1873 he moved to eastern 
Pennsylvania and embarked with a partner in a water cure establishment and in 
1878 severed his connection with this enterprise and came to Saratoga Springs, 
where he purchased and opened Elmwood Hall, which he has since successfully con- 
ducted as a select temperance house. He has a splendid spring on the premises, 
and gives his personal attention to all details and conducts a strictly first class 
house. In October, 1864, Mr. Potter married Hulda M. Leach of Madison county, 
N. Y., and they have a family of four daughters; Minnie, Mabel, E. Maud and Eva 
G. Mr. Potter is an earnest prohibitionist and is a hard worker in that cause. 



Quinlan, Patrick N. — When a man comes to this country lacking money , which 
is often considered as essential to success, makes a name and place for himself and 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 81 

educates his family, he is entitled to confidence and respect. Such a man is Patrick 
N. Qiiinlan. steward of the United States hotel at Saratoga Springs and of the Hotel 
Poinciana at Palm Beach, Florida. He was born in the parish of Hospital, county 
Limerick, Ireland, July 12, 1853, a son of Jeremiah and Margaret (Nixon) Ouinlan. 
His father was a farmer, the family was large, and his education was obtained in 
the national school of his native village. At the age of seventeen he came alone 
to the United States, and found employment in a grocery store in Troy, remaining 
in the capacity of clerk for three years. At the end of this period he began his long 
experience in the hotel business at the Troy House in Troy, N. Y. In 1877 he came 
to the Adelphi at Saratoga as steward and head waiter, spending eleven sea.sons in 
this capacity. In the winter of 1880-81 he was steward of the Vanderbilt House in 
Syracuse. For some years he was connected with the Troy police department and 
arranged his vacation to suit the Saratoga season. In 1889 he went to the Congress 
Hall as steward, and after seven years to the United States Hotel, his present 
charge. In 1890 Mr. Ouinlan opened the Lakewood Hotel at Lakewood, N. J., and 
in 1892-93 was in charge of the steward's department of the Battle House at Mobile, 
Alabama. The following season he went to the Bon Air Hotel at Augusta, Georgia, 
and for the past three seasons has been steward of the Royal Poinciana Hotel at 
Palm Beach, Florida, one of the largest and most magnificently appointed hotels in 
the State. Mr. Ouinlan bought a home and settled permanently in Saratoga Springs 
in 1884. He is a well known and universally respected citizen and always exhibits 
those qualities which attach friends; his politics are Republican and he is a member 
of the A. O.H. and the Knights of Columbus. In 1875 he married Helen H. Crowe, 
daughter of Patrick Crowe and Ellen Hanley, parish of Emly, county Tipperary, Ire- 
land, and they had fourteen children: Margaret A. (deceased), Nellie N., Mary C, 
Anna A., Jeremiah P., Thomas F., Patrick E., Catherine, Josephine, John J., Jo- 
seph X. A., Leo Sampson, Agnes and Loyola. 



Rawson Company, The S. E. G. — There are but few manufacturing enterprises in 
Saratoga Springs, and one of the oldest and most prominent of these is the S. E. G. 
Rawson Company, pioneer makers of suspensory bandages in the world. The pat- 
entee of Rawson's United States army patent elastic self-adjusting suspensory band- 
age was S. E. G. Rawson, a resident and well respected citizen of Saratoga Springs 
for several years. The business is said to have been started at the instigation of 
Mr. Rawson's friends, who believed the invention would prove a success if put upon 
the market. At first the business was almost entirely confined to the United States 
armj-, but the sales of the concern now e.xteud all over the world, and there is scarcely a 
jobber in the United States who does not handle the output of this firm. Without 
doubt they make the largest and most attractive line of this class of goods on the 
market, and their product is recommended by the highest authorities of the medical 
profession and endorsed by the leading surgical institutes of the world. After the 
death of the elder, his son, E. G. Rawson, succeeded to the management of the busi- 
ness, and in 1898 a stock company was formed and incorporated as The S. E. G. 
Rawson Company, with a capitalization of $60,000. E. G. Rawson was elected 
president and J. H. De Ridder secretary and treasurer. To accommodate the in- 
creased business a factory of brick is now in course of erection. Both father and 
f 



83 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

son have been firm believers in the value of advertising, and in consequence the 
name and product have become thoroughly well known. 



Raynor, Dr. John H., well known as a cancer speciahst, was born at Greenwich 
Point, two miles north of Freeport, L. I., January 31, 1840, a sonof Micaja and Ruth 
(Baldwin) Raynor. On both sides he descends from good old Puritan stock. His 
father was a farmer and Dr. Raynor was simply reared on a Long Island farm, at- 
tending schools of the vicinity and assisting in the farm work. He early turned his 
attention to the study of medicine, and for some time was associated in study and 
practice with Dr. L. C. Carpenter of Newark, N. J. Turning his attention to cancer 
and cancer treatment, he met with such success that he began to specialize in this 
branch of practice. Dr. Raynor's experience as a cancer specialist covers a period 
of thirty-eight years, thirty of which he operated continuously in Rockville Centre, 
L. I., where he still holds a practice. He came to Saratoga in 1893 and established 
a practice which has continued up to the present time very successfully. He possesses 
a thorough knowledge of cancerous diseases. In 1866 Dr. Raynor married Althusa, 
daughter of Oliver Combes, and they had eight children: Dallas E., Anna Ruth, Jen- 
nie E., Henry G., William M. N., Lillian F., Alberten, and Nelson L. Mrs. Raynor 
died in 1889, and m 1893 Dr. Raynor married Sarah, daughter of Nicholas Wagman 
of Saratoga at Wagman's Ridge. 



Reagan, James H., the senior partner of the firm of J. H. Reagan & Son, was born 
in the city of Troy, N. Y., May 31, 1844. On April 23, 1801, he enlisted in Co. D, 
30th Regiment New York State Volunteers, and was mustered in June 1, 1861, 
and served for two years, the full time for which he enlisted. The 30th Regiment 
was attached to the First Brigade, First Division, First Army Corps, and partici- 
pated in the following battles: Falmouth, April 18, 1862; Massaponox, Va.. August 
C, 1862; Rappahannock Station, August 23, 33 and 24, 1862; White Sulphur Springs, 
August 26, 1862; Gainsville, Va., August 28, 1862; Groveton, Va., August 29, 1862; 
Second Bull Run, August 30, 1862; South Mountain, Md., September 14, 1862; 
Antietam. Md., September 17, 1862; Frederick.sburg, Va , December 13, 14 and 
15, 1863; Rappahannock and Chancellorsville, April 29 and 30, and May 1, 2, 
3, 4 and 5, 1863. The regiment was mustered out June 18, 1863, at Albany, N. Y. 
Mr. Reagan is a member of Post McKean No. 498, G. A. R., and has been both ad- 
jutant and commander of his post; he also served as aide-de camp on the staff of 
Gen. John G. B. Adams, commander-in-chief of the Grand Array Encampment, 
which met at Pittsburg in 1894. When the Saratoga Citizens Corps was organized 
in 1877, Mr. Reagan was one of the prime movers in the undertaking and he has 
been a member of the corps since it was mustered in in 1878. He was orderly ser- 
geant for three years, and a sergeant from the first. When the -Spanish-American 
war broke out in the spring of 1898 he was elected first lieutenant of the 122d Sepa- 
rate Company, passed his examination and received his commission. In politics Mr. 
Reagan is a Republican and has been captain of several political clubs. He cast his 
first vote for Lincoln and ever since has been an ardent and active Republican. 
Prior to the war Mr. Reagan was apprenticed to the printer's trade, which he has 
made his life occupation. He was foreman in the Saratogian office for years. He 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 83 

went into business for himself in 1887, in partnership with Richard Mingay, jr., in 
1889 he bought out his partner's interest and in 1893 associated his son, Frederick, 
with him, forming the present firm of J. H. Reagan & Son, and they conduct one of 
the largest and best job printing offices in the county. Mr. Reagan married Mary 
Louise Kelly, January 1, 1866, and the re.sult of their union was four children, Lena 
Reagan, Frederick Reagan, James Everson Reagan, Benjamin Judson Reagan. 
Mrs. Reagan died April 20, 1S85; James Everson Reagan died April l-t, 1885; Benja- 
min Judson Reagan died September 17, ISSO. 



Reddish, Vincent, was born in Rutlandshire, England, August 12, 1837, educated 
there and came to the United States when nineteen years old, locating in Water- 
ford, N. Y. August 13, 1803, he enlisted in Co. D, 31st Cavalry, N. Y. Vols., and 
was honorably discharged September 15, 1865. He was a soldier who did his duty 
honestly for his adopted country. In 1866 he married Elizabeth Ward, and they 
had six children: Sarah J., Wdliam H., Charles A. (who died at the age of twenty- 
five), Thomas V., Lottie M. and Frank J. Sarah J. married Louis Veite, and they 
had one daughter. May. Mr. Reddish's father, Vincent Reddish, was born at the 
old home in England in 1803; he married Sarah Wood, and they had si.K children: 
Thomas, Mary, Vincent, James. Eliza and William. Mr. Reddish died in 1881 and 
his widow in 18s4. Vincent Reddish holds the office of highway commissioner; he 
is a member of Clinton Lodge of Waterford, No. 140, F. & A. M., and of General 
Philip H. Sheridan Post No. 630. G. A. R. 



Riley, James H., was born July 9, 1847, in the town of Saratoga Springs, Saratoga 
county, N. Y. , and has done more to make his birthplace famous than probably any 
other man in the county. Indeed he gave Saratoga Springs a European fame, which 
even its springs could scarcely do, and all by his scientific handling of a pair of sculls. 
When but a boy he began rowing on Saratoga lake and soon became a finished oars- 
man, and in 1876 he began to row in public competitions of the State of New York. 
His career as an oarsman extends over a period of thirteen years, and, unlike many 
athletes, he was wise enough to retire before he lost his prestige and his strength. 
In 1882 he achieved the wonderful record of winning every race in which he com- 
peted, fifty-six in all, and he was the first man to show the once redoubtable Edward 
Hanlan the way across the finish line, which he did at Barrie, Canada. In 1882 he 
challenged the world, but found no one willing to enter a boat against him. He not 
only won the silver cup, representing the championship of New York State, but was 
also at that time presented with a gold watch by the Neptune Club of Staten Island, 
of which he was a member. In 1886 Mr. Riley embarked in the hotel business at 
Lake Lonely, four miles from Saratoga Springs, and he conducts a high class hos- 
telry, no place in or near Saratoga Springs being better known than " Riley's." On 
March o, 1885, Mr. Riley married Hannah Abel, third daughter of Luther Abel of 
Saratoga Springs. 



Rogers, Charles, was born in the township of Malta, Saratoga county, N. Y., May 
4, 1836, educated in the common schools and conducted a general store for some 
years. In 1860 he married Catherine L., daughter of Rev. R. Schoonmaker of New 



84 OUR COUNTY. AND ITS PEOPLE. 

York city, and they have four children; William L., Ida M., Charles E. and Kate A. 
William L. married Edith M. Schwartz, and they have one son, Rollin W. Ida M. 
is preceptress in school No. 2 of Waterford. Charles E. graduated at Rensselaer 
Polytechnic, class of '96, aiid' married Miss Sarah Chase. Mr. Rogers and son Will- 
iam L. conduct a wholesale produce commission store in Cohoes. Mr. Rogers's 
father, George Rogers, was born in Schodack, N. Y., in 1804, educated in the schools 
of that day and was a hotel man and farmer. He married Thirza Schibley, and they 
had ten children; Mary A., Harriet L., James H., Marilla, George E., Charles, Mar- 
tha. John W., Oscar and Thirza A. Mr. Rogers died in 1884 and his wife in 1878. 
Mrs. Rogers's father, Rev. R. L. Schoonmaker, was born in Jamaica, L. I. He 
married Margaret L. Seaman, and they had seven children. Two |of her brothers 
served all through the late war in twenty-nine general engagements. Mr. Rogers 
and family are members of the Dutch Reformed church. William L. is one of the 
deacons. Mr. Rogers was supervisor of the township of Malta, and was postmaster 
there ten years. 



Rogers, George, was born in the township of Malta, Saratoga county, N. Y. , March 
7, 1827, educated in the district schools and at the age of seven his parents moved to 
the township of Stillwater. His early days were spent on his father's farm. He 
was a contractor and builder about seven years and in 18.59 began to manufacture 
-sash, doors and blinds, also conducted a lumber yard, all in the vicinity of Mechanic- 
ville, until 1888. In 1893 E. H. Strong and Mr. Rogers discussed the feasibility of a 
stock company for the purpose of manufacturing knit goods. A factory was erected, 
a company formed, with E. H. Strong as president and Mr. Rogers as treasurer, 
which still continues with success. Its corporate name is The Mechanicville Knitting 
Company. Mr. Rogers is one of the directors of the Manufacturers' National Bank 
of Mechanicville, was one of the original organizers of the First National Bank of the 
same place and served as its president for one year, but on account of his private 
business he gave place to others; he is one of the stockholders at the present time. 
In October, 1851, he married Sybel Baker, and they had six children: Helen. Kittie 
L., John H., Harriet, Charles and Courtland. Helen married John E. Thompson of 
this place; John H. married Viola, daughter of Gilbert Rowley, and they had one 
daughter, Ina. Viola Rogers died in 1891. John D. died March 30, 1898; Harriet 
married Stephen Smith of the township of Halfmoon, and they have four children ; 
Sybel, Helen, Florence and Harry; Charles married Effa, daughter of Joseph Holmes, 
and they had one son, George; his wife died in 1892. The two j'ounger sons have 
charge of separate departments in the Mechanicville Knitting Company. Mr. Rog- 
ers's father, Reuben Rogers, was born in Schodack, in 1798, and came to Saratoga 
when a young man. He married Susan Somes, formerly of Dutchess county, and 
they had six children; Courtland, Harriet S., George, David C. , Reuben J. and John 
H. Mr. Rogers died in 1865 and his wife io 1877. Mr. Rogers is a member of On- 
da-wa Lodge No. 820, F. & A. M., Montgomery Chapter No. 257, R. A. M. and is a 
life member of Washington Commandery of Saratoga No. 33, K. T. 



Roods, F. D. , was born in the town of Wilton, Saratoga county, January 18, 1859, 
and was educated in the district schools. He grew up on his father's farm and has 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 85 

been a farmer all his life, but also owned and conducted a grist mill from 1892 to 
1897. Mr. Roods is a leading Republican in the town of Wilton and has been dele- 
gate to many conventions, besides holding public offices. He was constable for four 
years, collector two terms, and is now serving his third term as justice of the peace, 
the year 1898 being his eleventh consecutive year in this office. In fact, he has held 
office ever since he became a voter, which indicates how high he stands in his part\-'s 
esteem. He is a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity. On March 12, 1882, Mr. 
Roods married Blanche F. Bunce, and they have three children ; Amos J. , Ira F. , 
and Flossie B. Mr. Roods's parents were Ira and Melisse M. (Deyo) Roods, and he 
has two brothers and two sisters, namely: Charles E. Roods and Smith M. Roods. M. 
D., a prominent physician and politician of Conklingville, Helen M., now Mrs. O. B. 
Messick, of Jersey City, and Polly M., now Mrs. John Ellsworth of Gurnsprmg. The 
family is an old American one. 



Roods, Charles E. — Although no attempt has been made to introduce the waters 
of the celebrated Gurn Spring to the general public, its superior qualities as a table 
water, combining, as analysis has demonstrated, that combination of mineral sub- 
stances beneficial in the case of stomach troubles, the virtuesof this wonderful spring 
have been known from the earliest settlers to the present time. It is said the Indians 
knew full well the healing qualities of the waters and used to camp about it in great 
numbers ; tribes coming from a great distance to drink of this healing beverage. 
Saratoga waters have always stood at the front in popularity with the American pub- 
lic. Gurn Spring is located on the farm of Mr. Ira Roods, now occupied by his son, 
Charles E. Roods, and was recently rented to Mr. Fred Bellen of Glens Falls, who 
has a five year lease, and will put it on the market. Mr. Bellen is an energetic busi- 
ness man and has already erected a suitable spring house, bottling department, etc. 
The value of this spring may be imagined when it is remembered the owner has re- 
fused a sum away up into the thousands for just the spring and right of way thereto. 
The Messrs. Roods are among Wilton township's most highly respected citizens. 
Charles E., who resides on the farm of two hundred acres, where the spring is lo- 
cated, is a son of Ira Roods, and a brother of Frank, who resides east of the village 
of Gurn Spring. Charles E. was born in 1852, and received his education in the 
public schools of the vicinity. April 27, 1881, he married Emma Searles, daughter 
of Rev. J. B. Searles. and they have one daughter. Xellie M. Ira Roods, who re- 
sides on the homestead west of the spring, has resided here since 1853. He was a 
brick manufacturer at Saratoga, carrying on the business in company with John 
Denton ; after the firm dissolved he carried on the same business on his farm for 
twenty-five years, relinquishing it about twenty years ago. Splendid results are ex- 
pected from the sale of the waters of Gurn Spring. 



Roohan, Patrick F. , was born in Saratoga Springs, February 26, 1862, and was 
educated in the public schools of his place. In 1878 he took employment with the 
Saratoga Gas Company as clerk ; subsequently he became cashier and bookkeeper, 
being appointed superintendent in March, 1897. In 1887 Mr. Roohan married Min- 
nie C. Ward, and they have three children: James Francis, Mary Estella and Leo 
Ward. In 1890 Mr. Roohan was elected receiver of taxes and assessments for the 



86 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

village of Saratoga Springs, and held that office three years concurrently with his 
position in the gas company. His parents were James and Alice Roohan, who emi- 
grated to America from Queens county, Ireland, in 1851. 



Rouse, James M., son of William and Margaret W. (Mulford) Rouse, was born in 
the town of Wilton, Saratoga county. His father was a farmer, but at the age of 
fifteen James M. came to Saratoga Springs and entered the meat business with his 
brother, and has been a resident of that village since. He branched out into the ice 
business in 1878, and in 1889 the partnership of Rouse & Shipman was formed, being 
the largest ice dealers in the county. Mr. Rouse was trustee of the village in 1895, 
owing to the reform movement, and has been a trustee in the M. E church for ten 
years. He married Carrie B. Walker, who died February 4, 1890. 



Rowland H. C, was born February 12, 1828, in Greenfield, Saratoga county, and 
lived on the farm until twenty-one years of age. when he began to learn the carpen- 
ter's trade, which he followed until the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion. 
He enlisted September 25, 1861, in Company E, Seventy-seventh N. Y. Regiment, 
and was mustered in as first sergeant. He was promoted December 25, 1802, to the 
rank of first lieutenant and served thus until the close of the war. He participated 
in all the batiles in which the Seventy-seventh made itself famous, from the time he 
went into the field until the end of the year 1864, except from May (i, 1864, until June 
5, 1864, during which time he was suffering from a wound. Notable among these 
battles were the Siege of Yorktown, Williamsburg, Ya., Mechanicsville, Malvern Hill, 
Antietam, Fredericksburg. Gettysburg, Chantilly, Rappahannock, the Wilderness, 
Spottsylvania, Petersburg, Charlestown, Winchester, and Cedar Creek. On June 5, 
1864, he took charge, as captain, of his company and filled the position until the ex- 
piration of his time, December, 1864. After the war Captain Rowland returned to 
his trade and followed it for five years. In 1870 he went into business in Saratoga 
Springs and pursued it until 1880, when he sold out on account of ill health. He 
was assessor of Saratoga Springs for six years; is a prominent Mason; a member of 
of Rising Sun Lodge, Rising Sun Chapter, Cryptic Council, and Washington Com- 
mandery No. 33, Knights Templar. His parents were John and Sallie (Carpenter) 
Rowland. His grandfather, Joseph, participated in the Revolutionary war, as a 
teamster, when twelve years old, his father being a soldier in that war. In 1851 Mr. 
Rowland married Fannie M. Burnham. 



Ryall, Benjamin, was born in England in 1842, a sou of Edward and .\nn (Randall) 
Ryall. He came to America in 1S66, settling in Saratoga Springs, where he em- 
barked in market gardening and so continued up to 1894, when he took charge of the 
Joe Ripley House, which he had previously built and rented. Mr. Ryall is a mem- 
ber of the A. O. U. W. and was highway commissioner and superintendent of the 
village in 1891-1892. In 1800 he married Emily Snelgrove, and they have one son, 
Edward. 



Ryan, Thomas S., was born in Tipperary county, Ireland, in 1844, and came to 
the United States with his mother in 1854, locating in Mechanicville, where he ob- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 87 

tained liis education in night schools. lie entered the employ of the American 
Linen Thread Co. when a boy and was with the firm about twenty-eight years and 
had charge of the machinist department the last fifteen years. In 1882 he began to 
sell dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, which he has continued since with success. 
He has married twice, first in 1866 to Mary Burke, and they had five children: 
Johannah, James E., Andrew M., Margaret and Thomas. Mrs. Ryan died March 
2, 1875, and on August 25, 1877, Mr. Ryan married Hannah M. Donovan; they have 
four children: Catherine A., John J.. Theresa M. and William. Johannah married 
M. J. Riley of Saratoga; they have five children: Howard, Thomas, Marv, Paul and 
Mark. Andrew M. married Mary Crotty; Margaret married John C. Crotty and 
they have one son, John C, jr. Mr. Ryan and family are members of St. Paul's 
Roman Catholic church of Mechanicville. In his political choice he is a thorough 
Democrat. 



Sarle, Sanford, was born at Sarle's Ferry, October 10, 1842, a son of Benjamin 
and Amanda (Knight) Sarle. He was educated in the common schools of the town 
of Saratoga and when twenty-five years of age started in life for himself as a farmer 
in the town of Stillwater, and in 1890 purchased the farm where he now resides. 
He takes a great intere.st in the affairs of the town and county, also educational 
matters, and at the present tmie his wife is trustee of the district school. In 1867 
Mr. Sarle married Elizabeth, daughter of William Hustis, who came from Rhode 
Island, and they have one son, William B., who married Margaret, daughter of Rev. 
Philip Dorland, who was connected with the Quaker church at Quaker Springs. 
William B. has three children: Robert, Edith and Austin D. Sarle. 



Schwarz, Magnus, was born in Germany, February 32, 1831, and came to the 
United States in 1854, settling in Ballston, where he was engaged in mercantile busi- 
ness for twenty-six years. In 1865 he bought the Ballston Spa Tannery, which he 
carried on for twenty years, retiring from mercantile business in 1880. In 1886 the 
tannery burned and he then engaged in his pre.sent business of wool, hides and tal- 
low. In 1861 he married Sarah, daughter of James Muhlfelder, and they have four 
sons: Isadore, Charles, Lewis and Frederick, and one daughter, Mrs. S. A. Heiser. 
Mr. Schwarz is one of the conservative men of Saratoga county, serving as assessor 
and taking an intelligent interest in school and church matters, and has ever re- 
ceived and merited the respect of his associates. 



Scully, William T., son of John and Ellen Whalen Scully, was born in Cambridge, 
Washington county, in 1866, and educated in the Greenwich Academy. He began 
life for himself at fifteen years of , age, vi-as employed two years by L. H. Finch, and 
was for a short time employed by James Heaslip of Saratoga Springs, and later by 
the Eagle Clothing House, where he clerked for three years and then succeeded the 
manager, H. M. Rosenberg, and has been continued in that capacity for seven years. 
Through Mr. Scully's active enterprise, the Eagle Clothing Co.'s double stores have 
become an attractive center for a large portion of Saratoga and adjoining townships 
in which to purchase clothing, hats, caps, gents' furnishing goods, the finest quality 
of boots, shoes, trunks, blankets, robes, etc. The store is owned by Mr. Sonn of 



88 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Greenwich, and is conducted on the style of those in Albany, Troy and other large 
cities. Mr. Scully is one of the hustling, wide-awake young men of the community, 
who has earned the title to success for one so young in years. He is all business, 
energetic, thoroughly honest, and has already made his mark in the world. He is 
the owner of considerable productive real estate, among which might be mentioned 
the Scully (formerly the Loosie) block, Windsor Hotel block, the brick house opposite 
the Hotel Schuyler, frame building corner Saratoga and Pearl streets, many vacant 
lots, and has recently purchased the Crippen- Russell block. South Broadway, giving 
abundent evidence that old heads sometimes repose on young shoulders. Mr. Scully 
is exceedingly popular among all of his townspeople and the surrounding country as 
well. In politics he is a Democrat, but not a seeker after office, preferring his busi- 
ness interests to political life. 



Servis, Millard F. , son of Benjamin and Harriet Perkins Servis,,was born in 1849, 
on his grandfather's farm, the old Perkins homestead, two miles north of his present 
residence. He was educated at the Fort Edward Institute and afterward took a 
thorough course in business at the Eastman Business College of Poughkeepsie, and 
adopted the profession of bookkeeping, and accordingly, in 1861, became bookkeeper 
for Wilcox & Griffin, flour and grain dealers, 13 Water street. New York. The death 
of his father one year later caused him to cliange all his plans and he returned home 
and took charge of the farm, the old Servis homestead, which he now owns, and 
where he has since remained. Politically Mr. Servis is a Republican, staunch yet 
considerate. He was a delegate to the Republican county convention in 1875 and 
1877; in 1893 was elected assessor for two years and re-elected in 1895 for three years. 
Mr. Servis is an active Mason, greatly interested in the order and is a member of 
Schuylerville Lodge No. 676, F. & A. M., Washington Commandery No. 33, K. T. 
On July 2, 1871, he married Sarah E. Harrington, daughter of John Harrington of 
Greenwich, and they have two children: Preston B., married Miss Wilber, and 
Hattie May, married Daniel G. Wilber, and they have one child, Alecia May, born 
November 15, 1897. 



Settle, George E., was born in Albany county, January 17, 1843, a son of Eli 
Settle, a native of the same county, where Paul Settle, one of the pioneers of the 
town of Knox, whose father preceded him, located in 1750. Eli Settle married Har- 
riet E. Benedict and through life was identified as a miller and in general mercan- 
tile business ; he died in 1895. George E. Settle was educated in Ballston and Albany 
and in 1873 was associated with his father in the flour business in Watertown. In 
1876 he came to Ballston and organized the firm of Jones & Settle, manufacturers of 
collar paper. In 1879 he purchased Mr. Jones's interest and the same year purchased 
the Geyser Spring, which he incorporated as a stock company and is its treasurer and 
manager. 



Shackelford, George R. P., was born in Saratoga Springs, September 29, 1863, a 
son of Rev. John W. and Elizabeth P. (Putnam) Schackelford. His father held a 
prominent place in the Episcopal church and was rector of the Church of the Re- 
deemer in New "York city for twenty-seven years; he also had charges in the cities of 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 89 

Brooklyn and Newark, N. J. On Iiis mother's side Mr. Shackelford conies of historic 
American stock, she being a descendant of one branch of the Putnam family, of 
which the famous General Israel Putnam was a distinguished member. Rockwell 
Putnam whose name figures in the early days of Saratoga Springs, was his mother's 
father and a son of Gideon Putnam. Mr. Shackelford has been a business man since 
his school days and is largely interested in real estate and has made notable ad- 
ditions to the business blocks of Saratoga Springs. He is a member of the firm of 
Hartwell &■ Shackelford. 



Shaeffer, S C, was born in Milton, March 23, 18G5, a son of Peter Shaeffer, a na- 
tive of Ballston, whose father settled there about 1750. Peter Shaeffer married 
Sophia, daughter of Josiah Piatt, and through life was identified in the knit goods 
trade, and was the first to knit a seamless stocking. He is a prominent man in his 
town, taking an active interest in school and church matters. S. C. Shaeffer was 
educated in the public schools, and engaged in the market business in which he has 
been engaged for twenty years. In 1888 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Patrick 
Ryan, and they have two sons; Sylvester and Warren. Mr. Shaeffer is one of the 
self-made men of the town, taking an intelligent interest in school and church mat- 
ters and has ever advanced the best interests of his town. 



Shaw, Edward, was born in Galway, February 14, 1846, a son of Robert Shaw, a 
native of Vermont, who came to Ballston when a young man and superintended 
a farm for Beers Brothers, finally settling in Galway, where he lived and died. 
Robert was a Republican in politics, and served as deputy sheriff for about thirty 
years and constable for thirty- five. He died December .5, 1887, and his wife, Lucy 
Radford, October 14, 1893. Edward Shaw was edticated in the common schools, and 
carries on farming, having a farm of 126 acres. He married Henrietta Seabury, and 
they had four children: Chester H., Harry B., Daisy L. and Clarence S. In politics 
Mr. Shaw is a Republican and has been inspector, collector and highway commis- 
sioner. He is a member of Galway Lodge No. 453, I.O.O.F. 



Shay, John P., was born at Whitehall, Washington county, N. Y., March 33, 1866, 
and was educated in the public schools and High School of his native place. He 
graduated from the High School in 1884, and is also an academic graduate under 
the Regents of New York State. While studying in Whitehall he read Blackstone, 
but embarking in the mercantile business with his brother, abandoned it at the time, 
and in 1893 they came to Saratoga Springs and conducted a mercantile business for 
one season, when John P. Shay decided to make law his life profession, and entered 
the office of Foley & Wing, continuing his studies with Hon. John Foley, after the 
dissolution of that firm. He was admitted to the bar July 6, 1898, and has estab- 
lished himself in Saratoga Springs to practice his profession. Mr. Shay was a mem- 
ber of the Catholic Young Men's Club and Lyceum in Whitehall, and for several 
years was one of the trustees of the Church of Our Lady of Angels in Whitehall. His 
parents were William H. and Mary (Tynan) Shay. His father was also a native of 
Whitehall. 



90 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Sherman, Frank J., M. D., was born in Albion, Oswego county, N. Y., February 
2, 1838. a son of Franlilin A. and Mary (Clark) Sherman. He studied medicine with 
his father and was graduated from the medical department of the University of Ver- 
mont in 1880, the same institution from which his father was graduated in 1850. His 
father was a native of Vermont and a descendant of one of the oldest families of 
that State. For two years he practiced at Sandy Hill, Washington county, and in 
1853 went to Chicago; in 1854 he located m Oswego and was appointed examining 
surgeon of the United States government at Sackets Harbor in 1862, remaining 
there until 1865, when he came to Ballston, having practiced for nearly fifty years. 
In 1852 he married Mary Clark of Sandy Hill, and they had three children; Frank 
J., Mrs. Mattie G. Cornell, and Mary E. Frank J. is one of the conservative men of 
his town, unostentatious and unassuming and has ever advanced the best interests 
of the city. In 1885 he married Minnie C, daughter of Stephen Medberry of Ballston 
Spa. 



Sherwood, L. D., was born in Ballston, April 27, 1836, a son of John J., who came 
to Saratoga county from the State of Connecticut in 1804 John J. married Jane J., 
daughter of Daniel Harris, and through life was identified as a farmer ; he died in 
1888. L. D. Sherwood was educated in the public schools, D. Babcock's school for 
boys, the Ballston Institute, and Carlisle Seminary, under Dr. Crocker, late of Sara- 
toga Springs. In 1861 he married Laura, daughter of William Warner, and they 
had three sons: George W., Arthur C. (deceased), and John L. Mrs. Sherwood 
died on March 23, 1892, and on April 18, 1894, Mr. Sherwood married EmmaWinne, 
daughter of David H. Winne of Ballston, and they have one son, David Winne 
Sherwood. Politically Mr. Sherwood is a Republican and has held the office of vil- 
lage trustee two years. He is one of the representative men of his town, taking an 
active interest in school and church matters and is recognized as a man who has 
ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 

Shipman, John, was born in Hadley, Mass., a son of John and Betsey Bemis (Bel- 
den) Shipman, and came to Saratoga Springs with his parents at the age of fourteen, 
where he was educated in the public and private schools. In early life he began 
teaching, which profession he was engaged in for eleven years. In 1889 he era- 
barked in the ice business with Mr. J. M. Rouse, which partnership still exists, and the 
firm carry on the largest business of Saratoga Springs. Mr. Shipman is a member 
of the Masonic fraternity and of the Methodist church. He naturally takes a great 
interest in the cause of education and is a member of the board of education of Sar- 
atoga Springs, having served thereon ten years, bemg now in his fourth term. June 
3, 1878. Mr. Shipman married Alice J. Walker, who died March 4, 1894. The Ship- 
man family are of English stock and Mr. Shipman's great-grandfather Bemis was 
a soldier in the Revolutionary war ; his grandfather Solomon Belden served in the 
war of 1812. 

Slavin, Thomas H., was born in Jonesville, Clifton Park, N. Y., March 12, 1859, 
educated in the district schools and Jonesville Academy, and was a farmer with his 
father when a boy, and thence moved to Mechanicville. He learned the carpenter's 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 91 

trade, and worked on public works three years in several capacities. He became a 
contractor and builder until 1894, employing on an average fifteen men. In that 
year he opened a general store on North street, which he has conducted since with 
success. In 1889 he married Elizabeth E. Doyle of Clifton Park, and they have one 
daughter, Anna Elizabeth. Mr. Slavin's father, Thomas Slavin, was born in Ire- 
land in the year 1823, and came to the United States with his parents when a boy, 
locating in the township of Clifton Park, where he was educated in the schools of 
that day. He married Bridget Coyan. and they had twelve children: John B., Celia, 
Abbie, Thoraa? H , Gurnsey F. and Mary F. (twins), Jennie F., Ella E., Aaron W., 
George H. and Lizzie. Mr. Slavin died October 31, 1880. and his widow on May 9, 
1896. Thomas H. in his political choice is a Democrat ; he has served as trustee of 
the village two years, and is a member of the board of education. The family are 
members of St. Paul's Roman Catholic church. 



Slocum, George H., son of Samuel and Nancy (Gleason) Slocum, was born near 
Grangerville, in 1843, and educated in the Jonesville Academy. His father was a 
farmer and owned the farm where Mr. Slocum now lives and near where he was 
born. The place consists of 150 acres of fine land, comfortable home, fine lawn and 
shade trees, three barns, carriage house and other necessary buildings. He carries 
on general farming and is extensively engaged in sheep raising. In 1871 he married 
Hannah M. Jones, and they have one daughter, Lillian, who is a fine artist and mu- 
sician. Mr. Slocum has two brothers living, Samuel and Charles, and two sisters 
living, Mrs. Ruby J., widow of William Wood, and Eliza A., wife of A. Stephens of 
Lincoln, Neb. 



Smead, Hartwell D. , was born in Stillwater, Saratoga county, N. V., July 24, 1855, 
a son of Elial and Rachael (Towner) Smead, he a native of Keene. N. H., and she 
of Copake, Columbia county, N. Y. His parents came to Stillwater when young; 
his father died in Luzerne, Warren county, .September 2, 1895, and his mother in 
Hadlej', June 19, 1881. Hartwell D. was educated in the common schools, and has 
been engaged in the railroad business all his business life, the last ten years being 
baggageman. He also owns 266 acres of land where he resides and other land; he 
and his brother own 115 acres in partnership. In 1877 he married Mira A. Steele, 
and they had nine children: Scott, Philo B., Carl .-V., Jay H., Maggie A., Walter, 
Bert, Bertha and Hartwell D. 



Smith, Mrs. Alice H — Willis P. Smith was born in the township of Halfmoon, 
July 35, 1865, educated in the public schools and at Mount Pleasant, Mass. In early 
life he was a farmer. He is an e.\tensive coal dealer in Mechanicville, and was in 
copartnership with Isaac H. Wendell. On April 1, 1898. he purchased Mr. Wendell's 
interest and since then has conducted a successful business alone. On April 3, 1890, 
he married Alice H. Fitzgerald of his own neighborhood, and they have three sons: 
Gerald Fitzgerald, Walter Bailey and Harvey Wendell. Mrs. Smith's father, George 
Fitzgerald, was born on the old homestead on the historic Hudson River, three miles 
south of Mechanicville, January 2, 1813; was educated in the schools and academies 
of his day and was a civil engineer by profession. He was ten years surveying in 



93 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Central America and was the first of his profession in that country. He married 
Mary Hamilton of his native place, and they had two children, one died in infancy, 
and Alice H. (as above). Mr. Fitzgerald died November 22, 1886, and his widow 
January 7, 1895. His father, Edmond, was born in 1774; he was colonel of the State 
militia and married Eleanore Flynn. They had nine children, George being the 
youngest. The colonel died December 4, 1833, and his widow October 3, 1857. The 
family attended the Presbyterian church of Waterford, N. Y. 



Smith, Edgar J., son of Edwin and Olive (Cronkhite) Smith, was born in Green- 
field August 20. 1855. He carries on general farming and conducts an extensi%'e 
milk route; he has a fine herd of cows and carries on this part of his operations in 
the most scrupulous order. Mr. Smith's father is a farmer and with his wife resides 
at Greenfield. When twenty-five years of age Mr. Smith departed from the parental 
roof tree and was unitedin marriage to Ella M. Collamer, and they have five chil- 
dren: Clarence C, Charles E., Warren K., Helen A. and Ada E. Mr. Smith has a 
water power and grist mill located on the place, where a good business is carried on 
in custom grinding, etc. He is also general agent for the agricultural implements 
manufactured by the Osborne Company of Auburn and has a large sale in binders, 
mowers, rakes, power forks, etc. In politics Mr. Smith is a Republican and has 
enjoyed the confidence of his party ; has been delegate to various county conventions, 
and in 1894 was elected supervisor of the town of Wilton for the term of two years. 
Mr. Smith's fine residence, substantially constructed, has from its fine location the 
appearance of an ideal home in the country. 



Smith, James W., was born in Gloversville, Fulton county, N. Y., January 17, 
1845, educated in the public schools and Kinderhook Academy. September 1, 1802, 
he enlisted in Company C, Twenty-fifth Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, and was 
honorably discharged in August, 1863. September 12, 1866, he married Louisa A. 
Mowry of Windsor Locks, Conn., and they had four children: Harman M., Carrie 
L. , Lewis L. (who died m infancy), and May A. Harman M. married Nora Beck- 
with, and they have two children, Gertrude L. and Mildred M. ; Carrie L. is a gradu- 
ate from Mrs. Ames's private academy, and Mary A. from the Mechanicville High 
School. Mr. Smith's father, Herman S., was born in Greenfield, Saratoga county, 
N. Y., October 9, 1814; on April 29, 1839, he married Angeline Burr of King.sboro, 
N. Y., and they had three sons: Lewis F., born April 26. 1840; Lucian B., born 
May 28, 1842, and James W. (as above). Mr. Smith died December 14. 1875, and his 
wife December 18, 1848. The family came to Mechanicville in 1884. Mr. Smith has 
been in the employ of the Duncan Paper Company since and has been superintend- 
ent of the soda department the past eight years. His son, Harman M., is day fore- 
man under him. He is a member of Elmer E. Ellsworth Post No. 619, of Mechanic 
ville, G. A R., Department of New York, is past commander and now (in 1898) is 
chaplain. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the M. E. church; he is one of the 
stewards. In his political choice he is a staunch Republican ; the ancestry of family 
is English on both sides. 



Smith, Stephen, a son of the late Stephen and Mary J. Smith, the former deceased 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 93 

in 1890, the latter in 1891, was born on tlie place where he now resides, March 28, 
1874. His only sister, Anna J., is the wife of Charles S. Bovie of Hoosicl:, a farmer 
near that place. Mr. Smith was educated in the public schools of the- vicinity and 
has always remained on the homestead ; his parents dying before he reached his 
majority, the care and conduct of a one hundred and fifty acre farm devolved solely 
upon him. From the handsome dwelling house, situated on one of the most promi- 
nent places in the township, may be seen the villages of Saratoga, Glens Falls, Fort 
Edward, Schuylerville, and to the eastward an unbroken range of vision reaches to 
the high peaks of the Green Mountain range in Vermont. In politics Mr. Smith has 
always been a Republican. His duties in the conduct of his farm require his clo.sest 
attention, and preclude all active interests which he might wish to devote to things 
politically. He is the possessor of one of the finest farms and in one of the most 
sightly locations in Saratoga county and upon this farm he devotes all his time and 
attention. 



Smith, Will W. , was born in the town of Jay, Essex county, N. Y , Februarv 0, 
1863, educated in the public schools of his native county, at Westport Academy and 
at the Plattsburgh High School. He began teaching at the early age of seventeen 
and taught for seven years. He was a remarkably successful teacher as well as a 
talented student, but his tastes inclining to law he entered the office of A. S. Burdick 
of Saratoga Springs, and after reading there for some time changed to the office of 
Judge J. W. Houghton. He was admitted to the bar in 1888, and immediately there- 
after began the practice of liis profession. From the first he gave special attention 
to real estate and probate matters, and has attained a place in the front rank of law- 
yers in the State in tliese important departments of his profession. Mr. Smith was 
associated in partnership with Gen. W. B. French from 1891 to 1894. On December 
26, 1881, Mr. Smith married Julia Haff, daughter of Schuyler Haff of Clinton county, 
N. Y., and their children are Frances, Kate, Lena and Harold V. Mr. Smith's 
parents were Eli and Mary (Atwood) Smith. His grandfather, Stephen Smith, came 
to Essex county. N. Y., from Vermont, in which State the family had resided for 
generations. Mr. Smith is a Republican in politics, highly esteemed by his party 
and is a representative member of the Saratoga bar. 



Spicer, L,, was born in Milton, August 21, 184.5. His fatlier, William Spicer, was 
a native of England and came to the United Slates in 1833 and settled in the town 
of Milton in 182.5. He had twelve children, ten .sons and two daughters; six sons 
were in the war of the Rebellion, two of whom, Edward and Frank, were killed; he 
died in 1888. L. Spicer was educated in the public schools, and learned the a.xe 
making trade. In 1891 he established his present business of jobber in wines, 
liquors, cigars and tobacco. In 1868 he married Frances L. Mcintosh, who died in 
1876, leaving two children, Mrs. Helen Harison and Fred. Later he married Libbie, 
daughter of John Osborne. Mr. Spicer is one of the self made men of Saratoga 
county, serving as excise commissioner, and is recognized as a man of sterling in- 
tegrity, who ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 



Sprott. James, was born in Moreau in 1827, and educated in the common schools. 



94 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and when twenty-five years of age left home to work for himself. Twelve years ago 
he purchased the farm he now occupies, which contains 103 acres of fine soil, situ- 
ated one-half mile east of Wiltonville, in what is without doubt one of the most 
sightly and picturesque places in Saratoga county. A grand sight is witnessed as 
you look to the southeast, where the eye catches a view of over fifty miles overlook- 
ing the hills of Washington county and e.xtending in an unbroken and uninterrupted 
view to the Green Mountams. In summer many people are lured to this beautiful 
spot on account of the pure mountain air and fine scenery. In 1860 Mr. Sprott mar- 
ried Caroline King, and they had one daughter, Anna, wife of Claudius Tillotson. 
In 1879 he married Adelaide Wood, and they have one son, Walter J., a student in 
the Saratoga High School. Mr. Sprott's farm is an ideal place and will soon be on 
the market. To those having an eye to the beautiful in nature no spot can be se- 
lected in which to pass the summer months or for a permanent home which e.xcels 
this sightly locality. 



Starbuck, E. D., the leading dry goods merchant of Saratoga county, was born in 
in Chester, Warren county, N. Y., a son of Stephen and Cynthia (Meade) Starbuck. 
He began the active business of life as a clerk, but after twelve years in this capa- 
city he embarked in business for himself and has been uniformly successful in all his 
undertakings. He has been in Saratoga Springs since 1887 and his business has 
largely increased since its inception. Mr. Starbuck is a member of the board of edu- 
cation and is at present president of the board. He married Ella Martin, and their 
children are Katharyn, Roy and Edgar. 



Steenburgh, Nicholas, was born in the town of Halfmoon, near Crescent, May 30, 
1851, and his education was limited to the public schools. When a young boy he 
drove on the Erie Canal, giving all his earnings to his mother, but afterward he 
filled different positions on that water-way, until he became a boat owner, when he 
sold his interests, and has owned and conducted a general store at Crescent the past 
eleven years with success. In 1876 he married Philena Van Decar, of Crescent, N.Y. 
Mrs. Steenburgh's father, Jeremiah Van Decar, who was a farmer by occupation, 
was born in the town of Halfmoon, in the year 182.5, and was educated in the schools 
of his day. He married Harriet, daughter of Isaac Quackinbush, of his native town, 
and they have five children; George, Martha J., Philena, as above, Ella and Artia 
L. Mr. and Mrs. Van Decar are still living at this date, 1898. Mr. Steenburgh has 
held the office of justice of the peace four years, and is now a member of the board 
of health. He is a member of the M. E. church, and in his political choice he is a 
staunch Democrat. The ancestry of the family is German and Dutch. 



Stevens, F H., M. D., was born in New Haven, Conn., where he received his 
education. He studied medicine at Crown Point, N. Y., and was graduated from 
Castleton Medical College, Vt. . and from the medical department of the University 
of Vermont. Dr. Stevens practiced medicine in Newark, N. J., for many years and 
in 1884 went to Lake George for his health, where he remained six years; during all 
of this time he was coroner of Warren county, N. Y., and health oflicer of the town 
of Caldwell. He then came to Saratoga Springs in 1891. Dr. Stevens is a member 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 95 

of the Vermont State Medical Association; the Addison County Medical Society ; 
Essex County Medical Society, of which he and Dr. J. S. Murray were the founders; 
of the Newark (N. J.) Medical Society; and the Newark Academy of Medicine. He 
is also an honorary member of the Union Medical Association of Albany, Rensse- 
laer, Saratoga, Washington and Warren counties and was vice-president of the War- 
ren County Medical Society. Dr. Stevens married Amelia A. Potter, daughter of 
Judge Joel F. Potter of Essex county, N. Y., and they have three children; the 
youngest, Fannie, married Joel W. Arnett of Chicago, 111, Dr. Stevens's parents 
were Rev. C. C. Stevens and Lucinda Hoadley Stevens. His maternal grandfather 
fought as a patriot all through the Revolutionary war and died from exposure dur- 
ing the military expedition through the wilderness to Canada. 



Stewart, Charles A., was born m Waterford, N. Y. , April 34, 1831, educated in the 
public schools and in 185S succeeded his father in the grocery business which he 
has conducted ever since successfully. His father, Alexander Stewart, was born in 
Voluntown, Windham county. Conn., November 32. 1798, followed the water in 
early life and came to Waterford when a young man. He married Susan Drake of 
Waterford, and they had two sons: James V. S. who died in California in 1849 and 
Charles A. (as above). The Stewart family were represented first in New England 
from Scotland, by John Stewart, who married Elizabeth Kennedy of Glasgow, Scot- 
land, and their son, Samuel, was born on shipboard on the Atlantic; he settled in 
Connecticut, where his son. Major John Stewart, was born and was an officer in the 
Revolutionary war. One of his sons, Samuel, was a general in the war of 1812. 
Charles A. Stewart has served on the village board of trustees; is a member of the 
board of education, and has been president for a number of years. He is a member 
of the Presbyterian church and is one of the trustees. In his political choice he is a 
Republican. 



Strang, Dr. James Read, son of Dr. Ira and Mrs. Ann J. (Hunt) Strang, was born 
in Stillwater, May 31, 18G3. His early life was spent at farming. He attended the 
district schools and afterward the Mechanicville Academy at Mechanicville, N. Y. 
Dr. Strang's ancestry is of French and English descent. His great-grandfather, 
Thomas Hunt, was a lieutenant in the American army during the Revolution and 
was in the engagement at Bemis Heights. Dr. Strang has two brothers, Edward H. 
and Dayton Strang, both engaged in the manufacture of knit goods at Mechanicville, 
N. v. In the fall of 1886 Dr. Strang entered the Albany Medical College and was 
graduated from that institution in March, 1889. The following November he located 
at Yischers Ferry, where he now enjoys a large practice and the esteem of the com- 
munity. He has held the office of health officer for a number of years. In 1897 was 
elected coroner on the Republican ticket. On January 30, 1892, Dr. Strang married 
Jennie B. Keeler, daughter of Russell Keeler of Clifton Park, and they have two 
children: Willard R., born March 17, 1893, and Marion, born October 13, 1897, died 
November 15, 1898. 



Stumpf, Frank, was born in the town of Northumberland, June 25, 1859, a son of 
Charles and Rosena Hoag Stumpf, natives of Germany, who settled in .Saratoga 



96 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Springs in 18i5. In 1856 they moved to Northumberland, where he carried on farm- 
ing. Frank was educated in the schools of Northumberland, and assisted his father 
until he was twenty years of age, when he was employed four years on the Cham- 
plain canal, after which he settled in Glens Falls, N. Y., and learned the jewelry 
trade. Three years later he started in business in Stillwater, N. Y. , as a jeweler and 
watch repairing and insurance, which business he has carried on to the present time. 
He has been active in town and county affairs; was town clerk from 1894 to 1898, 
and appointed postmaster under McKinley in 1897. He is a member of Montgomery 
Lodge No. .504, F. & A. M., of which he was secretary two years. He is an e.xempt 
fireman, formerly a member of E. I. Wood Steamer Co., also on the board of educa- 
tion for two years. He married Mary C, daughter of Miles P. and Electa Low, 
on January 37, 1886. 



Terry, Charles, was born in Mechanicville, December 4, 1843, a son of Thomas 
and Sarah Ann (Adams) Terry. After his school days Mr. Terry was employed as 
a clerk in Troy for three years; he then learned the milling trade and spent fourteen 
years in that business at Valley Falls, then moved to Schaghticoke where he was 
three years. In 1883 he came to Saratoga Springs and has been twenty-one years 
an agent of the Fitchburg Railroad, three years at Valley Falls, three years at 
Schaghticoke and fifteen in Saratoga. Mr. Terry married Jennie M. Medbury of 
Lyons, N. Y. His daughter, Ola, by a previous marriage, is the wife of Kenneth 
McClellan of Albany. Mr. Terry is a prominent Mason, having risen to a Knight 
Templar, and was a justice of the peace for seven years in Valley Falls. 



Thomas, Cassius B. , was born at Greenfield, Saratoga county, August 17, 1848, 
and has resided in Saratoga Springs since he was twelve years of age. He was ed- 
ucated in the schools of this village and then entered the post-office as assistant post- 
master, which position he occupied until he went into the coal business, forming the 
firm of Thomas & Brown in 1879. In 1890 Mr. Brown sold out and the firm is now 
composed of Cassius B. Thomas, Eugene Wiswall and Henry W. Keith. Mr. 
Thomas has several important interests in Saratoga Springs, including a large ice 
business, the Peerless Magnetic Spring and the celebrated baths conducted in con- 
nection therewith, and he is also a director in the Citizens' National Bank and is 
a prominent Mason. In 1894 he was elected on the school board, re-elected in 1897 
and was president of the board during the years 1896 and 1897. In 1870 Mr. Thomas 
married Sarah M., daughter of Amasa Keith of Saratoga Springs, and their children 
are Mary, Sylvia, Harry and Cassius B. Thomas, jr. Harry Thomas is a corporal 
in Company L, Second New York Volunteers, and is serving with his regiment at 
the front. Cassius B. Thomas, the subject, is a son of Felix and Hannah (Ballow) 
Thomas. Seth Thomas, his grandfather, came to Washington county, N. Y. . from 
Rhode Island; he served as a soldier in the war of 1813, and was a native of Rhode 
Island, where his people had lived for generations. Mr. Thomas is also a director 
and treasurer of the Saratoga Atheneum, and managing director of the Saratoga 
Floral Association. 



Thompson, Henry C. , son of Aaron M. and Phoebe Chapman Thompson, was born 
November 1, 1857. Aaron Thompson's children were Frank C Anna L., wife of 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 97 

James A. Fake of Bacon Hill; Isabella C, wife of Dr. Charles E. Craadall of Fort 
Edward; Sarah E., wife of Reed Cramer of Bacon Hill; Henry C. and one daughter 
deceased. Both of Mr. Thompson's parents are deceased. His great-grandfather 
on the maternal side, Samuel Chapman, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 
The record preserved of this ancestor says he was born at East Haddam, Conn., 
January 12, 175.5; was married to Zilpha Gates, September 4, 1783, and taken prisoner 
at White Plains and confined on a British prison ship for a long time, and was liber- 
ated with health so impaired that he died a few months after being exchanged. Mr. 
Thompson is a Republican in politics and has held the office of commissioner of 
highways, justice of the peace, elected supervisor in 1896 and is now serving his 
third term in the board. He has been a delegate to the various county and other 
conventions, thereby attesting the esteem in which he is held in the party and by 
his fellow citizens. In October, 1S90, Mr. Thompson married Ida A. Mulford; they 
have no children. 



Town. Charles S., was born in Bridgewater, Vt., July 15, 1860, a son of Charles J. 
and Mary J. (Robinson) Town, who came from Vermont to Thurman, Warren 
county, in 1868. His father died in Hamilton county in 1884 and his mother is now 
living in Thurman. Charles S. learned tile carpenter's trade and has since had a suc- 
cessful business. Mr. Town is a Democrat in politics. He has resided m Saratoga 
county for twenty-two years and owns a fine residence in the village of Hadley. 



Traver, George H. — The Travers are descended from old German stock; the 
grandfather, George Traver, came from Germany about the middle of the eighteenth 
century. Henry H. Traver, father of George H., was born at Rhinebeck, N. Y., 
and always resided there. His wife was Christina M. Schultz; both died in Rhine- 
beck. George H. Traver was born in Rhinebeck in 1818, and was educated in the 
public schools and at Rhinebeck Academy. He taught school for a number of years 
and in 1858 came to his present farm of 260 acres which he received in exchange for 
a farm in Rhinebeck. Here he resided with his devoted wife, whom he married in 
December, 1842, Mrs. Traver died May 20, 1884. Their children are John H., 
Oscar N., Arthur I., William G. and Emma F. Mr. Traver has been a Republican 
since the organization of the party and is a firm believer in. and strict adherent toils 
principles. He has been road commissioner, town clerk and justice of the peace. 
Squire Traver's name is known and honored throughout the county. 



Travis. Charles, was born in Wayne county, N. Y., November 9, 1857, and was 
educated in the public schools and later in Schenectady High School. For a number 
of years he was a general merchant, but is now a dairy farmer, having a milk route 
in Waterford, N. Y. October 30, 1878, he married Hattie Rosenberg, of Butler, 
Wayne county, N. Y. , and they have had four children : Catherine M., Bennett <)., 
who died at the age of eight months, Ida J. and H. Pauline. Mr. Travis's father, 
Abram, was born in the town of Halfmoon, about the year 1821, and was educated 
in the best schools of his day and followed the occupations of farmer and merchant. 
He married Mary, daughter of James Teachout, of Halfmoon, and they had two 
children ; Adelia P. and Charles, as above. Mrs. Abram Travis died in the veur 



98 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

1859, and for his second wife, he married Elizabeth Cooper, of Halfnioon. and they 
had four children : Birdell, Mary E , and Jerdson C. and Lewie (twins), who died in 
infancy. Mr. Travis died in 1889, but his widow survives him at this date (1898). 
Mrs. Travis's father, Andrew Rosenberg, was born in Germany, August 14, 1814, and 
was educated in their schools. He came to the United States at the age of fourteen, 
locating first in Seneca Falls and afterward in Wayne county, N. Y. November 1, 
1839, he married Catherine Quick, of Butler, Wayne county, N. Y. , and they had 
eight children: Charles, Andrew T., Cornelia F. , Mathias, George H., Josephine, 
Lovina and Hattie, as above. Mr. Rosenberg died July 2, 1887, and his widow Feb- 
ruary 9, 189.5. Mr. and Mrs. Travis are members of the iL E. church, and in his 
political choice he is a thorough Republican. The ancestry of the family is Dutch 
and German. 



Tynen, D. J., was bom in Saratoga Springs, August 15, 1863, educated in the 
public schools of that place and St. Francis Xavier's College, New York city, and 
also read law with Hon. Theodore F. Hamilton for some time. In 1889 he embarked 
in the hat and gent's furnishing business in Saratoga Springs and the enterprise has 
been so successful that it is to-day one of the leading establishments in its line in 
this part of the State. Mr. Tynen takes great interest in educational matters and 
is a member of the board of education of Saratoga Springs and was president of the 
board during 1896 and 1897. So young a man has never before been president of 
this board, which justly boasts of the high efBciency of its schools. As a business 
man Mr. Tynen is very popular and he exhibits that spirit of enterprise which is a 
benefit to the village, as well as to his own particular business. 



Vandenburgh, Russell C, was born in the town of Putnam, March 1, 1840, a son 
of Cornelius G. Vandenburgh, a native of Pittstown, Washington countj', and through 
life was identified as a farmer; he married Jane, daughter of Samuel Smith, and 
died in 1888. R. C. Vandenburgh was educated in the public schools. In 1859 he 
came to Ballston Spa and entered the employ of Benjamin J. Barber, manufacturer 
of sash, doors and blinds and dealer in lumber and builder's materials. Mr. Barber 
died in 1877 and the business has been continued by Mr. Vandenburgh. In 1870 he 
married Charlotte, daughter of Benjamin J. Barber. Mr. Vandenburgh is one of 
the progressive men of his town, taking an intelligent interest in school and church 
work. 



Van Deusen, Henry, was bom in Columbia county, N. Y., but has resided in Sar- 
atoga county since he was two years of age, and at the age of fourteen he began the 
activities of life as a clerk in a dry goods store, at Glens Falls, where he spent two 
years. He then came to Saratoga Springs and entered the employ of J. H. Wescott 
and after five years was admitted as a partner, and at the death of Mr. Wescott be- 
came sole proprietor of the business, which he conducted for twenty years. This 
business Mr. Van Deusen built up to the greatest dry goods house Saratoga Springs 
has ever had and won for him the distinction of being named the A. T. Stewart of 
Saratoga. In 1879 he went out of the dry goods business and into the real estate 
and insurance business, which he still conducts. Mr. Van Deusen has done a great deal 
for Saratoga Springs in building up and fostering the development of its real estate 



PERSONAL REFERENXES. 99 

interests. He owned the Vichy spring for a time and began its intelligent develop- 
ment, and he named the Diamond spring. Mr. Van Deusen married Martha J. Bil- 
lings, daughter of Reuben Billings, whose brother, Elisha Billings, held a commis- 
sion in the Revolutionary war. Mrs. Van Deusen died in May, 1897, leaving one 
son, Robert E. Van Deusen; they also had another son, Henry B., who died in 1892. 
The genealogy of the Van Deusen family is clearly traceable back to Wolfert Web- 
ber, who was born in Holland earlv in the seventeenth centurv. 



Van Hyning, John, was born in the town of Malta, Januar\' "24, 1838, a son of 
James and Amanda (Cook) Van Hyning. His great-grandfather, Henry Van H\-ning, 
was one of the earliest settlers in the town of Clifton Park, and died at the age of 
102 years. Mr. Van Hyning's maternal great-grandfather. James Wick, was a Rev- 
olutionary soldier and also lived in the county. Mr. Van Hyning married, on April 
1, 1856, Cornelia Elizabeth Tanner, and they have one daughter, Elizabeth A., wife 
of Lester M. Ferns of the town of Malta. Mr. Van Hj-ning has four brothers and 
one sister living: Henry, Theodore and Levi of the town of Malta, and Isaac of 
Clifton Park, and Elizabeth A., wife of James Hall. Thomas died some years ago; 
Freelove married Ira Southard and Mary married Edwin B. Cook of the town of 
Ballston. 



Van Rensselaer, Charles C. , was born January 21, 1865, a son of Abram and Sarah 
(Howe) Van Rensselaer, and was educated in the common schools. In earlv life he 
was a school teacher and farmer; live years ago he came to his present place in Wil- 
ton, where he carries on market gardening, fruit and berrj- raising. In politics he 
is a Republican and was elected town clerk in 188T, serving four years, and again 
elected in 1894. He was appointed postmaster June 29, 1898. In 1887 Mr. Van 
Rensselaer married Jennie L. Lincoln of Corinth, and they have one child, Leslie, 
aged ten years. Mr. Van Rensselaer is an exceedingly popular citizen and takes an 
interest in all affairs of public interest in the community where he resides. 



Van Valkenberg, R. , was born in Kinderhook. Columbia countv, in 1846. When 
he was eight years of age the family moved to Attica, W\-oming countj% N. Y. His 
father was a farmer, and until his sixteenth year he remained at home, working on 
the farm summers and attending the district school in winter. At the age of sixteen 
he went to Batavia and learned the carpenter's trade with Lyman Whalev. and for 
the next ten years followed it as a journeyman. His first venture for himself was in 
Schuylerville in 1880, since which time he has done a large business as a contractor 
and builder, .\mong the many business blocks and residences erected bv Mr. Van 
Valkenberg may be mentioned the residence of Thomas Syse on Pearl street; Bap- 
tist parsonage on Church street; Episcopal rectory; residence of Rev. Mr. Webster; 
residence of Frederick Dick, Pearl street; remodeled the residence of Charles Bul- 
lard, and built both of the BuUard blocks on Broadwav; and the Reform Church par- 
sonage on Burgoyne street. Of the out-of-town work may be mentioned the resi- 
dences of Hiram Cramer on the Quaker Springs road, George Peck and Charles Burt 
on the Bacon Hill road and the residence of Stephen Thorn, GrangervMlle. Many 
more could be added to this list, but the above is sufficient to demonstrate the char- 



100 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOl'LE. 

acter and scope of Mr. Van Valkenberg's work as a contractor and builder during 
his business career in Schuylerville. R. Van Valkenberg is a relative of President 
Martin Van Buren on his mother's side. 



Van Vorst, Andrew F., was born in Glennville, N. Y.. March 21, 1844, a son of 
Jacob and Mary (Crane) Van Vorst, who had eight children; Harriet, Mary, Esther, 
Jennie, Andrew F., Jonas H., Charlotte C. and one who died in infancy. Jacob Van 
Vorst was a native of Schenectady county, where he lived the greater part of his 
life. Andrew F. was educated in the common schools of Ballston and Burnt Hills. 
His early life was spent on the farm with his father. When about twenty years of 
age he taught school for several terms and when twenty-one he married Eliza J., 
daughter of Elisha Weld, and they have one daughter, Eva, wife of Frank E. Sharp. 
Immediately after he married he hired a farm which he lived on two 3'ears, then 
purchased a farm in the town of Charlton, where he lived six years, when he returned 
to his father at Glennville. In 1879 he married Emma S , daughter of Henry F. 
Near. In 1877 he took the agency in Amsterdam and Schenectady for the Saratoga 
Gey.ser Water, which he followed until 1897. He is also a wholesale dealer in farm 
produce, principally hay, straw and apples. Mr. Van Vonst is interested in town 
and county affairs and is connected with the Prohibition party. He has been active 
in school and educational work and has devoted much of his time to church work. 
He was a member of the First Christian church of Burnt Hills, of which he was a 
trustee twelve years; but that church disbanded in the winter of 1897, and in April, 
1897, the Union Christian church of Ballston Lake was organized, he being one of 
charter members, and was elected a trustee; he has been superintendent of the Sun- 
day school and teacher many )-ears; was president of the town Sunday school, in 
1896-97, and represented the Sunday school of his town in the State convention at 
Utica, N. Y., in 1898. 



Varney. Edward R.. a native of Queensbury, Warren county, was born July 24, 
1858. His father, Daniel Varney, now a prominent resident of South Glens Falls, 
was also a native of the same locality and for many years was engaged in the rafting 
and timber trade on the upper Hudson. Edward R. after starting out for himself 
engaged in farming and up to 1895 owned and resided upon a farm near Auburn. 
After disposing of his farm at Auburn he returned to Saratoga county and entered 
the employ of his brothers in their grocery store at Glens Falls. He remained with 
them two years and then opened his present place of business on Main street in 1897, 
where he conducts a thriving trade. In 1888 Mr. Varney married Carrie B. Sm'ilh, 
and they had three children, two now surviving: Smith D. and Benoni J. Mr. 
Varney is a Republican in politics and takes an active interest in the success of his 
party. 



Varney, Ransom, was born in 1857, a son of Ransom and Adelia (Brisbane) 
Varney. The family are of good old Welsh stock and were among the early settlers 
of this county. His father came from Queensbury, Warren county, thirty-nine years 
ago. Ransom Varney, the subject, was educated in the common schools of the 
neighborhood and the Glens Falls Academy. In politics he is a Republican and has 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 101 

been commissioner of highways, town collector, and in 1897 was appointed supervisor 
of the town of Wilton. He is one of the popular citizens of his section and owns one 
of the many pleasant and beautiful homes at the foot of Mt. McGregor. His farm is 
in a high state of cultivation, with fine buildings, etc. In September, 1882, he mar- 
ried Jennie Cook, daughter of M. C. and P. A. Cook of Saratoga Springs, and they 
have two children: Ransom, aged fifteen, and Vincent, aged eleven years. 



Vassar, Matthew, was born in Poughkeepsie, N. Y., on March 25, 1844, a son of 
James Vassar, who was a brother and business partner of Matthew Vassar, the 
founder of Vassar College. Matthew Vassar received a common school education, 
and in 1860 entered the employ of his brother-in-law, Samuel Haight, in New York 
city. In 1870 he came to Ballston with Mr. Haight, who had purchased a tannery at 
Milton Center, about three and a half miles from Ballston. He was admitted to the 
firm in the year 1880, and held equal interest in the same in 188.5. The tannery at 
Milton Center was totally destroyed by fire on the night of December 4, 1881. The 
plant was then built at Ballston and became one of the largest of its kind in the 
United States. Mr. Vassar's mother was Caroline Elizabeth, daughter of Benjamin 
Pierce of Troy, N. Y., who was the first importer of china north of New York. In 
1872 Mr. Vassar married Kate B., daughter of Horace Slate of New York city. Mr. 
Vassar is one of the enterprising men of his town, taking an interest in church and 
school matters. 



Vedder, Hiram W., was born in Waterford, N. Y., December 21, 1856, educated 
in the public schools and Troy Business College and is a commercial traveler by 
occupation. October 0, 1879, he married Alice J. Babcock, and they have two chil- 
dren, Ida M. and Hiram B. Mr. Vedder's father, Ira Vedder, was born at Broadal- 
bin, N. Y., January 8, 1831, educated in the schools of that day and was reared on a 
farm. In 1855 he came to Waterford and has been in the employ of the Ludlow 
Valve Manufacturing Company for the past thirty years. January 22, 1856. he mar- 
ried Sarah P. Wood, and they had three children: Hiram W. (as above), and two 
daughters who died in infancy. Mr. Vedder's grandfather, William Vedder, was 
born at the old home in 1792; he married Maria Benedict, and they had eleven chil- 
dren; he died in 1876 and his wife in 1861. Mrs. Vedder's father, Hiram Wood, was 
born in Waterford in 1803, was a tailor by trade and a hotel keeper for thirty years; 
he married Sarah Ann Wendell, and they had twelve children. Mr. Wood died in 
1876 and his widow in 1881. Hiram W. Vedder is a member of Clinton Lodge No. 
140, F. & A. M. ; Waterford Chapter No. 169, R. A. M. ; Bloss Council of Troy, N. 
Y., R. & S. M. ; Apollo Commandery of Troy, No. 15, K. T., and Oriental Temple 
of Troy, A. A. O. N. M. S. In his political choice he is a staunch Republican, and 
at present is the postmaster at Waterford, having been appointed by President Mc- 
Kinley August 26, 1898. 



Viall, George H., was born in Schaghticoke, in 1827, a son of Ira Viall, and was 
educated in his native place, where he resided until twenty one years of age. He 
learned the carpenter's trade, which he still follows. In 1853 he married Mi.ss Sco- 
field, and they have two children: Olive and Hattie. 



102 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PKOI'LE. 

Wagman, John, traces his descent on the paternal side from Nicholas Wagman 
born in Dutchess county, N. Y., in 1784, to Henry Wagman, his grandfather, who 
emigrated from Zurich, Switzerland, about the year 1700. The laws of his country 
at that time forbade emigrants from bringing money out of the country and he was 
searched at the port of embarkation and all his cash confiscated. Friends, however, 
in bidding him good-by, managed to slip some money into his hands. John Wag- 
man was born August 20, 183.5, in the town of Saratoga, Saratoga county. He spent 
his boyhood days on the farm at home and attended the district school winters. At 
the age of twenty he gave his attention to teaching during the winter and following 
farming during the summer. On December 31, 1863, he married Naomi Swetland 
of the town of Moreau, Saratoga county, who died October 28, 1874, and October 6, 
1875, he married Ida M. Bennett, daughter of George W. Bennett. Mr. Wagman 
removed to Fort Miller, Washington county, in 1870, where he engaged in the manu- 
facture of paper under the firm name of H. G. Craig & Co.. having first engaged in 
the manufacture of paper in Middle Grove, Saratoga county, soon after his first mar- 
riage. In 1873 Mr. Craig sold his interest in the business and the firm name was 
changed to Wagman, Thorpe & Co.. and remained such until the year 1896, when 
the plant was incorporated under the name of Fort Miller Pulp & Paper Co. In 1895 
Mr. Wagman was taken seriously ill and he removed to Saratoga Springs, where he 
expects to spend the remainder of his days, in educating his children, of which he 
has two from his second wife, (irace M. and Lewis B. 



Waller, Mason, was born in the town of Hartford, November 29, 1847, a son of 
Hiram and Edilda Waller. His father was a farmer and died at the age of seventy- 
five years; his widow is now living at the age of eighty-seven. Mr. Waller's early 
education consisted of that kind derived from the common schools of the vicinity. On 
March 11, 1875, he married Emily Warren, and they have two children; Mrs. Clara 
McNeal and Mildred. In politics Mr. Waller is a Democrat, with a strong leaning 
to the best men for office in local politics. Besides his e.\tensive farming operations 
he conducts a daily milk route of large proportions to Saratoga Springs, where he 
dispenses to his regular patrons the product of his fine herd of cows, which are 
always among the best and best kept in the county. Mr. Waller is an energetic and 
skillful farmer, a good business man and a citizen universally respected. 



Wandell, John J. --The subject of this biography in the son of George W. Wan- 
dell, and Helen M. Smith, his wife; son of Peter John Wandell and Nancy Martin, 
his wife; son of John Wandell, a soldier in Col. John Knickerbocker's regiment, of 
Albany county, militia, in Col. Philip Van Cortland's Secoiul Regiment New York 
State Line, and in Col. Goose Van Schaick's First Regiment New York State Line, 
war of the American Revolution, who was fifth in descent from Evert Janse Wendel, 
a magistrate at Fort Orange (Albany), under the Dutch government, prior to the 
conipiest in 1673, who was the founder of the family and emigrated from Holland to 
New Amsterdam (New York city) prior to 1647.' John J. Wandell was born in the 

'.See Pearson's Kirst Settlers of Albauv. :u«l lv.ir1y Kecords of Albany County ; O'falla- 
Klian's RegKStry of the New Netherlands; .Munsell's Annals of Albany; and New York in the 
Kevolntion as Colony and State, pp. 11!) US-lS. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 103 

town of Northumberland, Saratoga county. N. Y. , February 5, 1855, and was edu- 
cated in the public schools, the MechanicviUe Academy and the Fort Edward Colle- 
giate Institute, taking tlie preparatory course for college and the commercial course, 
graduating in June, l.S7;{. For about eight years Mr. Wandell was a farmer and 
cattle dealer, then became a hotel keeper at White Sulphur Springs on Saratoga 
Lake. In 1882 he became a commercial traveler and so continued until September 
18, 1884, when he purchased the Commercial Hotel at Saratoga Springs, of which he 
has ever since been the proprietor and owner. Mr. Wandell was some years a water 
commissioner of Saratoga Springs. He is a member of Rising Sun Lodge No. 103, 
F. & A. M. ; Rising Sun Chapter No. 131. R. A. M. ; Washington Commandery No. 
33, K. T., and Cryptic Council No. 37; Oriental Temple, N. M. S. ; the Red Men, 
and order of Elks. On November 28, 1877, he married Emma Sarle, who died May 
30, 1892, leaving three children: Lena M., Grace E. and George E. On March 1, 
1897, Mr. Wandell married Mary J. (Bootman) Gage of Waterford, N. Y. 



Waring, Mrs. William H., daughter of John and Almira (Soulard) Holman, is a 
native and lifelong resident of Saratoga county. In 1854 she married William H. 
Waring. Their living children ai'e Samuel A., Frederick, Lockwood, Mrs. M. Luella 
Wynn and Anna Lydia. William H. Waring was born in Saratoga county. He in- 
herited a farm from his grandfather and engaged extensively in the milk business, 
which he continued for several years. He then sold his farm and embarked in the 
lime business, which proving a failure, he came to Saratoga .Springs and after a year 
in the meat business started the livery business which is still conducted by his son, 
Samuel H. Mr. Waring died September 6, 1897, and at the time of his death was 
street commissioner, to which position his .son Samuel H. succeeded. Mrs.Wariug's 
mother, Almira Soulard, was a daughter of Barnabas Soulard, who was the son of 
Mary Adams, a cousin of President John Quincy Adams. Samuel A. Waring mar- 
ried Mary Robbins in 1892, and they have one son, William H. 



Washburn, Daniel, son of Cyrus and Mary A. Hunter Washburn, was born in 
Wilton township, June 27, 1845. His father was a native of Wilton and died in 1888; 
his mother died in 1893. Mr. Washburn was educated in the common schools and 
remained at Wilton on the farm until twenty-two years ago, when he purcha.sed the 
custom mill at Gansevoort, which he conducted for many years and which he still 
owns. His home at Gansevoort, "The Pines," he moved to four years ago. It is 
pleasantly located in a grove northeast of the Delaware and Hudson railroad and 
consists of a comfortable frame dwelling house in a grove of pines of something like 
three acres. Politically he is a Republican. Previous to his removal to Gansevoort 
he held the office of town clerk of Wilton for .several years, and was on the board of 
supervisors for the town of Northumberland from 1889 to 1893, one year of which he 
was chairman of the board. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. Wash- 
burn has been three times married ; his first wife was Nettie Styles ; second, Sarah 
C. West, by whom he had four children: Berdella C, a student at the State Normal 
School at Plattsburg; Lucy J., Cyrus M., and Charles D. ; and his present wife was 
Flora M. Westberry. 

Weatherly, Charles E., was born in Cayuga county, N. Y., March IG, 1819, and 



101 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

attended the district schools. Me is a self-made man, having left home at the age 
of fifteen on account of the death of his mother. In 1843 he began to be a railroad 
man and was station agent for the R. S. Railroad Co., and freight agent seven years; 
he was baggage master for the Saratoga and Whitehall Railroad Co. two years; was 
station agent and operator at Hydesville five years; and promoted to the position of 
passenger conductor with his home and headquarters at Rutland. Vt., on the then 
Jay Gould system. He speaks of Jay Gould in the highest terms. He was with 
distinguished superintendents and L. R. Sargent and others until 1884 and since 
then has lived a retired life. May 4, 1845, he married Elizabeth Y. Fisher of Me- 
chanicville, N. Y., and they had three children: John E., who died in his fifteenth 
year, Frances A. and Florence E. Frances A., married H. T. Lewin of Rutland, 
Vt., and they have one daughter, Elizabeth; Florence E. married Charles A. Frost 
of Rutland, \'t., and they have one daughter, Florence E. Mrs. Frost died May 33, 
1874. Mr. Weatherly's father, George Weatherly, was born in Yorkshire, England, 
and came with his parents to the United States when a boy. He married Lucy 
Bevins, and they had seven sons and one daughter: Mary Ann, George, Lewis, 
Charles E. (as above), Elias, Edward, Alfred and Ansil. Mrs. Lucy Weatherly died 
February 37, 1834, and her husband died in the far west. Mrs. C. E. Weatherly's 
father, John Fisher, was born in Mechanicville, N. Y. , March 9, 1804, and educated 
in the schools of that early day. He married Lucretia Bortel of this place and they 
had seven children: Elizabeth Y. (as above), Amanda, Horace, Rosetta, Orselia, 
Martha and Renette. Mr. and Mrs. Fisher are both dead. Mr. Weatherly is a 
member of the F. & A. M ; in his political choice he is a thorough Democrat. The 
ancestry of the family is English, Dutch and French. 



Weatherwax, William Rufus. — His paternal great-grandparents came from Ger- 
many at an early date, bringmg with them brick to use in constructing a home in 
what is now New York city, claimed to be the first of the kind. They were engaged 
in the trading business and that was as far north as they ever came. Andrew and 
Eleanor Weatherwax, the grandparents of William R., moved up the Hudson, locat- 
ing on the Bennington turnpike, three miles above Lansingburgh, on the farm now 
owned by William Perry. Tories were numerous, and much to be dreaded. The 
wife, busy at work rolling pie dough in an old fashioned stoop where hung a saddle, 
saw a man on horseback rein up at the door, saying, " Tories don't ride bareback 
when there is a Whig's saddle in sight." The Tory reached for the saddle, and she 
by the vigorous use of the rolling-pin succeeded in rescuing the saddle and remained 
its owner, the Tory leaving considerably the worse for his undertaking. This couple 
left two sons and one daughter: Stephen, John and Rachel. Stephen, the father of 
William R., was born in Lansingburgh in 17!!.'), educated in the schools of his day, 
and married Deborah, daughter of Thomas and Hester Wood, of Holland ancestry. 
She was one of ten children, the late Stephen Wood of Stillwater and Hiram Wood 
of Halfmoon, now dead, and Joseph H. of Lansingburgh, the only one now living, 
were her brothers. This couple had a large family, but five of whom survive at this 
date. He was a kind father and an upright and ambitious farmer. They were 
Lutherans, and in politics he was a Democrat, and a resident of Lansingburgh for 
many years. He died April 22, 1868, and his wife March 16, 1887. William R. was 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 105 

born in Schaghticoke, N. Y., July 2"), 18:!:?, and married, in 1858, Laura A., daughter 
of Peter S. Woodin of Crescent, who was born in Halfmoon, January 25, 1836. They 
remained in Lansingburgh until 1869, when he jjurchased the Woodin homestead at 
Crescent, where he now resides. They have two children: Jennie A., married Polete 
Pilkey in 1891, and have one daughter, Laura J.; and Peter S. , married Jennie 
Ni.Kon in 1888, and have three children, Hester L, William Russell and Sarah A. In 
1890 Mr. Weatherwax purchased the Stickler farm where Peter S. now resides, which 
was called by the older settlers the "Forest farm." It borders the Mohawk River 
and Erie Canal on the south, which with its high rolling lands, the aqueduct and isl- 
ands in view to the west, and the Cohoes Falls, eighty feet in height, add beauty to 
its surroundings. This scenery is seldom equaled, and at this point the Indian trail 
was very plain, and as many Indians were located west of here they would come 
down the Mohawk in large numbers with their canoes, and make a halt, visiting 
their old haunts, their chosen spot being on the river flat just above the Aqueduct, 
where the Stennakill, which runs south through this farm, enters the river at this 
point, which had been a favorite resort, as is shown by the many relics found in this 
locality (now covered with icehouses). Here they would roll their blankets around 
them and squat down for the night. Then came a light snow and in the morning 
they had the appearance of a forest of newly cut stumps. Then with one whoop 
from their leader, all would rise from their lodge, shake off the snow, prepare their 
breakfast by a camp fire and again make ready by shouldering their canoes, thence 
onward following the old trail three miles across the country to the Hudson river 
above the rifts at Peebles' place, to continue their journey onward, calling themselves 
friendly Indians. Timothy Woodin, the great-grandfather of Mrs. Weatherwax, 
was born in 1741, a pioneer from New Rochelle, Westchester county, to Putnam 
county, in Revolutionary times. Anna Howe, his wife, was born in 1750, of English 
ancestry, and was regarded as a lineal descendant of Lord Howe. They were de- 
vout members of the New Town Baptist church in 1791. He died in 1814, and his 
wife in 1819, and are buried with many of their kin in the Rosecrans burying ground. 
They had a large family, of whom were Reuben, Peter, Phoebe, Lizzie, and Laura, 
who became the wife of Solomon Higgins. a most gracious woman. Peter became 
a Baptist minister; married and located in central New York, where he remained 
the beloved pastor of his church for many years and died at a good old age, and at 
this date has several children living in that vicinity. Reuben, the eldest son, and 
grandfather of Mrs. Weatherwax, was born in 1795, enlisted from Putnam county 
and served his time, getting his discharge from Tribe's Hill, in 1768. He then set 
out to locate his father, traveling on foot, finding him in the town of Halfmoon, 
two miles north of Crescent, upon the farm now owned by Mr. Plant, whither he had 
moved while he was with the army. Amid much rejoicing he settled down and in 
due time married Patience, daughter of Eben Landers and Desire Twist, her mother's 
maiden name, of Welsh parentage, born in 1766, were prudent farmers, undergoing 
many hardships and privations, and lived in a log house on the farm where Alex- 
ander Button now lives and later on the George Filkins place, which was a little less 
than a wilderness in those early days; he died in 1823, and his wife in 1860, in her 
ninety-fifth year. She had an extraordinary memory, was a zealous Christian 
woman and drew a pension while she lived. Their children were Polly, Lucy, Eliza, 
Abner, Reuben, Aaron, Zacheus, Peter and Timothy; the latter, while in the gov- 



lot! OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ernment service during the war of 1813, with a team hauling a cannon to Sackett's 
Harbor, while ascending a hill on the old State road, where the snow was deep, the 
sleigh upset, crushing his leg; with inexperienced doctors at hand he suffered a 
second amputation, after which he died on January 28, 1815, leaving a widow and 
two small children, Reuben T., and Caroline, who became the wifeof James Scott of 
Waterford, and has one daughter, Mrs. Carrie Gilbert, of North Bramford, Conn., 
both now living at this date, 1898. Peter S. Woodin was born in the township of 
Halfmoon in the year 180.5, received a common school education, and was a perse- 
vering young man. In 1827 he married Sally Teachout, who was born September 
2, 1808, of Dutch ancestry. Her parents were John Teachout and Hannah Swart- 
out. They were thrifty people, hailing from Dutchess county. Their children were 
Mrs. Esther J. Taylor of Grass Lake, Mich., who has two children, Mrs. Sarah 
Willis and J. Clay; Anson B. , of Colonie, Albany county; Peter Woodin; Laura A. 
and Manley A. who died in 1896. aged sixty years. He owned much land in the 
vicinity and dealt largely in stock and speculation. He held several offices of trust, 
and in politics was a Republican. He purchased the Devoe farm in 1845, and re- 
sided upon It until his death, which occurred in 1875. His wife died in 1S68, a woman 
of rare ability and her example worthy of imitation. — Contributed. 



Webster. William B., M. D., son of John M. and Mary Boardman (Barney) Web- 
ster, was born in Hebron, Washington county. October 26, 1858. His early educa- 
tion was obtained at Jonesville Academy and the Fort Edward High School, grad- 
uating from the latter in 1877. He afterwards studied medicine with Dr. Dunham 
of Plattsburg and Dr. John Swinburne of Albany; graduating from the Albany 
Medical College in 1881, and immediately began his practice in Schuylerville after 
obtaining his degree. Dr. Webster has built up a large practice in Saratoga and 
adjoining towns. He is a member of the American Medical Association. The Web- 
ster family of New York are lineal descendants of John Webster, one of the Colonial 
governors of Connecticut. Elizur Webster, great-great-grandfather of Dr. Webster, 
was a native of Hartford, Conn., and traces his lineage to John Webster, once gov- 
ernor. Elizur's son, Obediah, settled in Hampton, Washington county, and was one 
of the pioneers of that place, where he purchased 3,000 acres of land. Obediah Web- 
ster was related to both Daniel and Noah Webster. Orrin Webster, Dr. Webster's 
grandfather, was born in Hampton, March 20, 1800, and died there in 1862. On 
September 20, 1883, Dr. Webster married Ella, daughter of William McCreedy of 
Schuylerville, and they have two children: Dorothy Louella and Mildred. In poli- 
tics Dr. Webster is a Republican, and is serving his second term as coroner; has 
been twice president of the village of Schuylerville, and has served three terms on 
the board of health. lie is a member of .Schuylerville Lodge No. G76, F. & A. M., 
Home Chapter No. 176, R. A. M. , Washington Commandery No. 33 of Saratoga, and 
Oriental Temple A. A. N. M. S. of Troy. 



Weeden, William C, was born in Easton, Washington county, July 4, 1833, a son 
of Coggeshall and Eliza (Chase) Weeden, he a native of Jamestown, R. I., and she 
of Portsmouth, R. I., and who came to Washington county about 1810, where they 
lived and died. The family is of English descent and came to the United States 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 107 

about 1600, settling in Rhode Island. William C. was reared on the farm and edu- 
cated in the common schools. He followed farming and in 1868 came to Greenfield 
and bought the house and lot where he now lives, also a farm of 120 acres. He mar- 
ried Emma A. Hewitt, and they have one son, James G., who was educated at Me- 
chanicville and Schenectady. James G. was school commissioner for several years 
and assisted in taking the census for ten counties in 1890, was also in Washington 
connected with the census department there, but was obliged to leave on account of 
sickness and died February 18, 1893. His wife, Sagie D. (Smith) Weeden, and 
daughter EInice, live in New York city. William C. Weeden is a member of St. 
John's Lodge No. 23, F. & A. M. 

Weeks, George H., was born in the town of Saratoga Springs in 1834, a son of 
Aaron D. Weeks, a native of New York city, and who died when George H. was 
only five years old. His mother married again and George was taken by a Mr. Car- 
rigan of Geyserville. where he remained until his sixteenth year, and came to Sara- 
toga Springs and entered the employ of John Benedict, where he mastered the tin, 
coppersmith and plumber's trade, which he followed until 1863. At this time he en- 
listed in Co. F, UOth N. Y. Vols., participating in battles of the Wilderness. Cold 
Harbor, Petersburg, the Siege of Atlanta, and the capture of Fort Fisher in North 
Carolina, and many others. Returning to Saratoga, after being mustered out, he 
resumed his trade of tinsmith, which he followed until 1871, when he was appointed 
engineerinchargeof the Saratoga Gas Works. In April, 18T2,he received the appoint- 
ment of assistant superintendent in the works of the Mutual Gas Co. of New York 
city, remaining there until 188.5, when a much better position offered itself with the 
Consumers' Gas Co. of Jersey City, N. J. Two years later he received the appoint- 
ment of superintendent of the Standard Gas Co. of New Y'ork, a position he still re- 
tains. On January 37, 1867, Mr. Weeks married Sylvia Garnsey of Ballston Spa, 
and their children are Wesley, engineer at the West Farms Gas Works, West Farms, 
N. Y. ; Garnsey, a student at the Schuylerville High School; MilUe, wife of Robert 
L. Christie, of the Standard Gas Co. of New York city. Mrs. Weeks's grandfather, 
Eldad Garnsey, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and her brother, Charles Garnsey, 
served his country in the Civil war, and was captured at Petersburg, 'Va., and suf- 
fered the horrors of Andersonville prison for si.s: months. 

Wemple, J. Russ, a leading insurance man of Saratoga Springs, was born in New 
York city in 1851, and was educated in the schools of the national metropolis. He 
entered upon a most successful business career in insurance after his school days, in 
which line he has been engaged all his life. In 1893 Mr. Wemple came to Saratoga 
Springs. October 15, 1877, he married Miss Pinkney and they had one child, John 
P. Mr. Wemple's ancestors were among the early settlers of Saratoga county and 
Govenor Yates was a member of one branch of the family. The ancestors were 
Revolutionary soldiers. 

Wheeler, Frederick J., was born in Charlton, June 4, 1867, a son of William S. 
Wheeler, a native of Ballston, where the family were among the pioneers. William 
S. married Augusta Louise Barlow of Norwalk, Conn., and through early life was 



108 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

identified as a farmer. In 187.") he came to Ballston and engaged in the shoe busi- 
ness; in 1880 engaged in grain and milling, erecting what is known as Wheeler's 
Steam Mills. He died February 24, 189,^. Frederick J. was educated in Ballston 
and entered business with his father, which he still carries on, making a specialty of 
buckwheat flour and buying and shipping hay, grain and straw. Mr. Wheeler is one 
of the conservative men of his town, serving as collector of the town of Ballston and 
member of the board of education. He is treasurer and vestryman of Christ church 
and has ever received and merited the respect of his associates. 



Whipple, W. W., son of Archibald and Mary Jackson Whipple, was born in 1860, 
and educated in the public schools and at Elmwood Seminary of Glens Falls, of 
which his brother, James N. (now deceased), was at that time principal. Mr. 
Whipple never deserted the paternal roof; he always remained at home on the farm 
with his parents, and since their death, six years ago, has continued to improve it by 
the addition of fruit trees, etc. He does an extensive business in fruit and vegetable 
gardening. He is a progressive and up-to-date farmer, as well as citizen. In 1888 
he married Alice, daughter of E. R. Johnson of Feeder Dam, and they have three 
children: Archie E.. Leslie C. and Grace A. 



White, Charles, was born in Whitestown, Oneida county, N. Y., May 27, 1832, 
and was educated in the public schools and Whitestown Academy. His young man- 
hood was spent on his father's farm, but he came to Waterford, N. Y., in the year 
1869, and at once was eng.aged as an agent in charge of his cousin, Hugh White's, 
vast property interests. Hugh White died in 1870 and Charles had charge of the 
estate and sold building lots on the north side, near Cohoes, and has lived to see a 
large section of the village thrive and grow. June 8, 1890, he married Mary A. 
Waterman of Waterford, N. Y. Mr. White's father, Jonas, was born at the old home 
in Oneida county, N. Y., September 10, 1789, and was educated in the schools of that 
day, and always followed the honorable occupation of farming. July 2.j, 1813, he 
married Mary Lewis of his native place. She was born January 22, 1790. They 
had nine children. Jonas A., Morris P., Mary, J. Lewis, Philo, George M., Cynthia, 
Louisa and Charles, as above. Jonas White died February 9, 1874, and his wife, 
February 27, 1808. Mrs. Charles White's father, Frederick W. Waterman, was born 
in Cohoes, Albany county, N. Y., in the year 1811. He was well educated in Albany 
and was a merchant by occupation. April 24, 1832, he married Margaret N. Storey 
of Albany, N. Y. They had three children, George S., Mary A., as above, and 
Frederick Y. Both sons are dead. Frederick W. Waterman died July 5, 1838, and 
his widow May 23, 1887. William M. White, son of Hugh White, was born July 8, 
1833, and died January 2, 189G. Charles White, in his political choice, is a thorough 
Democrat; and Mrs. White is a member of the Presbyterian church. The ancestry 
of the family is Welsh and English, and they date back to Hartford, Conn., to 1G05. 



White, Seward J., M. D., sou of James D. and Jennie (McClary) White, was born 
at South Bern, N. Y., in 1857, and received his education at the State Normal School 
at Albany and Cornell University. He. studied medicine with Dr. A. Van Deer of 
Albany, attended the Albany Medical College and was graduated from there in the 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 11)9 

class of 1880. He came directly to South Glens Falls after graduating and opened an 
office for the practice of his profession, where he has since remained and where a 
large practice has been built up in Saratoga and Warren counties. In 1883 Dr. 
White married Flora E. Sweet, and they had three children, one now living, Gladys 
M., aged nine years. Politically Dr. White is a Republican ; for the past eighteen 
years he has been health officer of the town of Moreau. He is a member of the 
Warren and Saratoga County Medical Societies; Glens Falls Medical and Surgical 
Societies; is vice president and a director of the Glens Falls Hospital; has been a 
member of the board of education for the past ten years and trustee of the village. 



Wilco.K, John M., w^as born at North Easton, Washington county, in 18H9. In 1845 
his father removed to Albany, where he engaged in the flour and grain business un- 
der the firm name of Wilcox & Sturgis. John M. became associated with the firm in 
time, which became Wilcox, Sturgis & Co., remaining with it until 1863, when he 
removed to Quaker Springs, his father also removing to the same place, and died on 
the farm which is now owned by Mr. Wilcox. Mr. Wilcox's mother died in 1868. 
Mr. Wilcox owns two farms, containing 150 acres, and carries on the business of gen- 
eral farming. In 1861 he married Sarah Jane, daughter of William McCoduck of 
Quaker Springs, and they have two daughters; Minnie, wife of Elias M. Moe, and 
Cora B. , wife of Eugene P. Rogers of Ketchum's Corners. 

Williams, Howard, was born at Rome, Oneida county, N. Y., June 18, 1867. His 
parents moved to Whitesboro when he was a child, where he was educated in the 
public schools and at Whitestown Seminary. He assisted his father in the various 
enterprises which he carried on, and came to Mechanicville in 1892, where he is 
superintendent of the Miller, Hall and Hartvvell Shirt Co. ; he also conducts the Hall 
drug store and pharmacy. October 17, 1884, he married Mildred L. , youngest 
daughter of Dr. Samuel and Catherine E. Hall of Mechanicville, and they have two 
daughters; Marion E. and Mildred K. Mr. Williams's father, William B., was born 
at the old home in Rome, N. Y., about the year 1838; was a carriage manufacturer, 
also a lumber dealer on a large scale. He married twice, first, to Mary Aucott. who 
was of English ancestry, and they had four children: Edwin W. , Nettie F. , Dewitt 
C. and Howard. Mr.s. Williams died in 1870 and Mr. Williams married Mary Mc- 
Morris of Washington county, and they have three children ; Mary, Stacy B. and 
Florence. Mrs. Williams's father. Dr. Samuel Hall, was born in Chemung county, 
N. y., November 26, 1837; he attended the Starkey Seminary and was a graduate 
of Geneva Medical College. He practiced his profession in Ilammondsport and 
other places and became a permanent resident and practitioner of Mechanicville in 
1877. On June 3, 1862, he married Catherine E. Hall, and they had three children; 
Charles B., Marion A. (who died in her twenty-first year), and Mildred L. Dr. Hall 
died January 27, 1897, his widow survives at this date, 1898. Mr. Williams's father 
had two brothers who were State senators, one in New York and the other in Wis- 
consin. The Williamses are directly related to Roger Williams of Rhode Island. 



Wiswall, Eugene, was born in the town of Schuyler, Herkimer county, N. Y. , 
October 28, 1841, and was educated at Fort Miller Academy, Washington county. 



no OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

lie came to Saratoga county in 1864. and engaged in farming. Subsequently he 
branched out into the lumber business and contracting and finally into the coal busi- 
ness as a partner of Mr. C. B. Thomas and Charles Spaulding, which is now known 
as the Thomas & Brown Co. Mr. Wiswall has always been interested in farming 
and lumbering and has been superintendent of the Saratoga County Agricultural 
.society for several years. His parents were Capt. Henry and Elizabeth Ann (Pick- 
ert) Wiswall. Capt. Wiswall was a native of Herkimer county and followed the sea 
for .several years, rising to the rank of first mate. The Wiswalls are of Welsh origin ; 
in 1660 three brothers of them came to America and settled in Sudbury, Vt. One of 
them later went to Canada, one to New York State and the one who remained in 
Sudbury became the progenitor of the family to which Eugene Wiswall belongs, and 
the family trace their lineage back to 1794 in Sudbul■3^ In that year Samuel Wis- 
wall removed to Herkimer county and his son Henry was the father of Eugene. On 
November 28, 1863, Mr. Wiswall married Clara E. Van Epps, daughter of Alexander 
Van Epps of Ballston Spa. 

Wroath George W., son of Richard Wroath. was born in Quaker Springs, Saratoga 
county, N. Y., in 1836. His mother's maiden name was Polly Brown. He had two 
brothers, one living, John A., a blacksmith of Glens Falls, and one sister, Maria, 
wife of Gilbert Bennett of Rochester. Mr. Wroath's early education was limited to 
the public schools and was meager at that, as he left home to do for himself at the 
early age of twelve years. His father having removed to Schuylerville, young 
Wroath assisted for a time in the blacksmith shop conducted by his father, and at 
the age indicated entered the machine shop of James P. Cramer, and there learned 
the trade. His home has been continuously in Schuylerville, yet he has been em- 
ployed at various times at Sandy Hill, Fort Edward and Glens Falls. In 1840 Mr. 
Wroath married Helen Hammond, and they had three children: Josephine, wife of 
Frank Short of Saratoga Springs, the only one living. In politics Mr. Wroath is a 
Republican, and takes an active part in politics. He is a member of the Methodist 
church of Schuylerville and is a citizen universally respected. 



Dwyer, Edward E., farmer, dairyman and milkman, was born in Limerick, Ire 
land, in 1832. His father was a farmer and Edward E. was obliged to help on the 
farm, having little chance to obtain even the rudiments of an education. In 1864 he 
came to America, and twenty-one years ago to Victory. Six years later he was 
married to his first wife, Mary Hayes, who was also a native of Irelancl, and they 
had one son, Robert. Mr. Dwyer married a second time Margaret Burke of Victory, 
and they had six children: Catherine, Winifred, Alice, Fannie, Margaret and Thomas. 
Mr. Dwyer owns and occupies 277 acres of fine land, the cultivation of which he per- 
sonally superintends, beside the care and attention incident to the conduct of a large 
dairy of fifty cows. His rich grass lands in the river bottom afford fine pasture for 
his cattle insuring a superior quality of milk of which his entire product is dispensed 
among his regular customers at .Schuylerville. Mr. Dwyer bears the reputation 
among those where he is best known as an honest, upright and thoroughly straight- 
forward citizen. 



Pierson, Guy E., was born at Ballston, Saratoga county. N. Y., July 10, 1862, and 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. Ill 

received his education in the schools of that village. His first active occupation was 
that of letter carrier in Saratoga Springs in which he was engaged for six years. 
Subsequently he clerked for two years, and since has been connected with the Royal 
Spring. He became secretary and manager of the Royal Spring Company in 1893 
and is also similarly connected with the Putnam Soapstone Heat Retainer Company. 
In 1888 Mr. Pierson married Mary U. Putnam, daughter of Abel Putnam, jr., of Sar- 
atoga Springs. They have one daughter. Harriet Putnam Pierson. Under Mr. 
Pierson's able management the Royal Spring has come into even greater prommence 
and favor and has become a notable factor among the water attractions of the great 
springs center of America. Mr. Pierson is one of the younger circle of Saratoga's 
enterprising business men and is a member of Hathorn Lodge of Odd Fellows. He 
is the third generation of his family in Saratoga county, his grandfather having been 
one of the earlier settlers. His parents were Sanford A. and Esther M. (Hicks) 
Pierson. 



Epler, H. J., the leading photographer of Saratoga Springs, was born in Sunbury, 
Pa., December 35, 1817, a son of Samuel and Mary Magdalene (Zimmerman) Epler. 
His grandfather, John Epler, with other members of the family built the old stone 
edifice of the German Reformed church, which still stands in Philadelphia. While 
yet a youth, in the beginning of 1863, Mr. Epler enlisted in the 46th Pennsylvania 
Infantry, and served till the close of the war, participating in many of the great 
battles of the the Rebellion, among others. Winchester, Bull Run, Green Mountain, 
Brandy Station, Antietam, Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Lookout Mountain, Resaca, 
Atlanta and also in the march to the sea. He was taken prisoner at Chancellorsville 
and confined in Libby prison for four weeks until e.Kchanged. After the war Mr. 
Epler took up the study of photography and has made it his life's business. He has 
been in Saratoga since 1883 and was previously located in Cleveland. He married 
Helen Agard. daughter of Dr. Agard of Oakland, Cal. , and they have two children; 
Charlotte F. and Don Agard Epler, who served in the 2d N. Y. Infantry during the 
Spanish-American war. The fathers of four successive generations of the family 
have been soldiers, Mr. Epler's father and grandfather also having fought for the 
United States. 



Thompson, William L., the well known funeral director of Saratoga Springs, was 
born in Hebron, Washington county, N. Y., August 19, 1860, a son of Charles and 
Martha ( FuUerton) Thompson. His father, Charles Thompson, is a native of Mass- 
achusetts, having been born in Hadley. At an early age he removed with his parents 
to Washington county, N. Y., and after receiving such an education as was possible 
in the schools of that day, learned the carpenter's trade and later engaged in the 
manufacture of sash and blinds; subsequently he engaged in the furniture business 
and carried on an undertaking establishment as well. He retired from mercantile 
life in 1897, and is now living in Saratoga Springs. He is a man of sterling charac- 
ter and in his various business undertakings has achieved success. William L. Thomp- 
son acquired his early education in the district schools and later attended Washing- 
ton Academy at Salem, N. Y. On completion of his education he entered the employ 
of the well known house of W. H. Freer of Troy, in a minor capacity. He early 
showed marked business ability and his promotions were rapid until he was made 



112 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

manager and buyer of one of the departments of this extensive establishment. In 
1892, after a continuous service of thirteen years, he resigned and removed toShushan, 
N. Y., where he established himself in the undertaking business. On July 1, 1897, 
he removed to Saratoga Springs, where he purchased the business of Mr. Ebenezer 
Holmes, established in 1847, and after a complete renovation of the establishment by 
Mr. Thompson, an equipment, modern in every respect, was purchased, giving every 
facility needed for the prompt and careful handling of the business Few firms, if 
any. outside our large cities, possess a more complete and elegant service, and the 
amount of business done by Mr. Thompson since his coming to the village shows the 
ajipreciation by the public of his enterprise and understanding of their wants. He 
is recognized as an expert in the art of enbalming, being a graduate of two of the 
most prominent schools of that character in the United States and his careful atten- 
tion to detail assures his patrons entire satisfaction. Aside from his business inter- 
ests he is a member of Rising Sun Lodge No. 103, F. & A. M., Rising Sun Chapter 
No. 131 ; Washington Commandery, No. 33, K. T. ; and the American Fraternal In- 
surance Union, and is at present vice-president of that order for Saratoga Springs. 
During his residence in Troy he enlisted in the Tibbitts Cadets, 21st Separate 
Company, N. G. S. N. \'., and served his full term of five years. On coming to 
Saratoga Springs he re-enlisted in the Citizens Corps and is a member of the Hospi- 
tal Corps of that body. He is also a member of the Tri-County Undertakers' 
Association. lu the fall of 1892 Mr. Thompson married Frances E., daughter of 
Levi and Anna Crowe of Troy, N. Y., and they have one daughter. Madeliene F. 



West, George H., was born in (ialway, December 23, 1854, son of Matthews West, 
a native of the same town, where Jonathan West, his grandfather, settled about 1780. 
Matthews West married Elizabeth Doty and through life was identified as a farmer; 
he died in 1881. George H. West was educated in the public schools, at Troy Business 
College, and the Union Classical School, Schenectady. He was engaged in the mer- 
cantile business in Galway from 1880 to 1891, and in 1897 came to Ballston Spa, 
where he established his present real estate and insurance business. In 1881 he 
married Carrie L. Burdick. Mr. West was school commissioner of the first district 
of Saratoga county from 1890 to 1896, and was elected to the State Assembly No- 
vember 8, 1898, by the Republican party. He was chairman of the Republican 
committee for five years. He has ever received and merited the respect of his asso- 
ciates. 



Reynolds, Tabor B., M. D., was born in Wilton, Saratoga county. April 8, 1821, a 
son of Dr. Henry and Mary (Emerson) Reynolds. After his school days were over 
he began the study of medicine with his father, and subsequently in the office of 
Drs. March and Armsby of Albany; later he took a course in the Albany Medical 
College, from which he was graduated in the class of 1848. He then returned to 
Wilton and practiced with his father until the death of the latter on December 20, 
18.07, when he formed a partnership with his younger brother. Dr. John H. Rey- 
nolds, and continued the practice so well established. His brother died in 1870, and 
not long afterward Tabor B. removed to Saratoga Springs. Dr. Reynolds was for 
many years a prominent figure in the public life of Saratoga county. He was super- 
intendent of .schools from 1847 to 18.52, and was a member of the board of supervis- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 113 

ors in 1856, 1857 and re-elected in ISO;!, holding the office until 1867. He was elected 
to the State Assembly in 1867, by the Reinibiican party, holding that position until 
1871. He has long been a prominent member of the Saratoga County Medical So- 
ciety and was its president in 1857 and 1858; he is also a member of the New York 
State Medical Society and was president of the Union Medical Association of Sara- 
toga, Warren and Washington counties in 1873. In 1878 he was appointed examin- 
ing surgeon for pensions at Saratoga, and was again appointed in 1S89. On Felj- 
ruary 17, 1843, Dr. Reynolds married Sarah Ann Emerson, who died September 'J, 
1870. Dr. Reynolds has done a great deal toward the advancement of the medical 
profession in this State. 

Whealey. B. M., was born in Hempstead, L. I., November 33, 1833, a son of Daniel 
and Adrianna (Doxey) Whealey. natives of Hemptstead. His father was born in 
1796, his mother in 1807, and both lived to be over eighty-four years old; they had a 
family of eleven children. B. M. Whealy left Hempstead early in life and went to 
New York to commence life for him.self. In 1854 be married Miss Julia Wood of 
Brooklyn, and in that same year went to Ottawa, 111., to visit an uncle of his wife, 
who was formerly an old New York butcher. While there Mr. Whealey learned the 
butcher's trade. In 1858 be went South and on hearing of the rumor of war between 
the North and South returned to New York, being just out of Charleston harbor when 
Fort Sumter was fired on. He came direct to Schuylerville, and in 1863 came to 
Saratoga Springs, where he opened his meat market, which is is one of the best in 
the State, having been in the meat business for nearly forty-five years. Mr. Whea- 
ley is a member of the A. O. U. W. and takes an intelligent interest in Saratoga 
Springs and its general welfare. He was highway commissioner for three years, 
being president and treasurer of the board for two years, and is at present an avenue 
commissioner. Mr. Whealey has two children living: Clarence E. and (Gertrude E. 



Burnham, Judge James A., police justice of the village of Ballston Spa since 1888, 
and a successful practicing attorney at the bar since 1878, is a son of Return J. and 
Elizabeth (Jones) Burnham, and a native of the village of Ballston Spa, where he 
was born July 23, 1848. The family being in very moderate circumstances, young 
Burnham went to work in James M. Cook's cotton mills here when only ten years of 
age, and after three years in that occupation entered the the employ of John Castle, 
a dealer in poultry, with whom he remained until his twentieth year. All the school- 
ing he received was obtained in six short winter terms of the public school, but upon 
this foundation, by studying evenings, reading extensively and always thinking out 
to a solution any question that perplexed him, he built up a general education which 
has served every purpose in practical life, and enabled him to acquit himself with 
credit in the various positions of responsibility to which he has been called. He 
early formed good habits, and has never used liquor or tobacco in any form. At the 
age of twenty he went to Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and took a course of training in 
Eastman's Business College, from which he was graduated in 1869, and immediately 
became bookkeeper for a large mercantile establishment in New York city. He re- 
mained in the metropolis three years, and then returned to Ballston Spa; was en- 
gaged in the county clerk's office for a short time, after which he accepted a position 
as bookkeeper for the lumber firm of Barber & Baker, of this village, and remained 

h 



114 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PKOPLE. 

with them until the dissohition of that firm, when he was appointed to settle up their 
affairs, and attended to that business in the law office of Quackenbush & Whalen in 
this village. He soon after began the study of law with these gentlemen, and was 
admitted to practice in 1878. In that year he opened an office at Ballston Spa for 
the practice of law, and has ever since been engaged in the duties of his profession. 
Beginning with the traditional //// in the clientage of young lawyers, he has steadily 
pushed his way towards the front, and now enjoys a large and lucrative practice. 
He now owns some valuable real estate in this village, and has rendered valuable 
aid to his brothers and sister, all of whom now own their own homes through his 
assistance. He was elected justice of the peace, and .served one term in that office. 
In 1888 he was elected to the position of police justice of Ballston Spa and is still ac- 
ceptably discharging the duties of that responsible office. During his adminstra- 
tion of police affairs the criminal business has been reduced two-thirds, and bur- 
glary and arson, which had flourished for years, have been effectually broken up. 
On July 23, 1877, Judge Burnham was united by marriage to Mary (J. Curtis, a 
daughter of H. L. Curtis, of the village of Ballston Spa. To Mr. and Mrs. Burnham 
has been born one child, a son, named James A., jr., whose natal day was March 1, 
1881. In his political affiliations Judge Burnham has always been a Republican, and 
is active and influential in the local councils of his party. He has filled a number 
of the offices of his town, and was largely instrumental in having the village in- 
corporated. He is a member of Kayaderosseras Lodge No. 270, Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows; Hermon Lodge No. 90, Knights of Pythias; Home Lodge 
No. 135, Ancient Order of United Workmen; Waconia Tribe No. 179, Improved 
Order of Red Men; and Ballston Spa Castle No. 3, Knights of the Golden Eagle. 
The Burnham family is of Scotch-English extraction, and tradition says was first 
planted in America by three brothers of that name, who came over during the 
colonial period and settled in southwestern Vermont. Nathaniel Burnham, paternal 
grandfather of Judge Burnham, was a native of Vermont, and served as a soldier in 
the war of 1812. At the close of that conflict he removed to Washington county, 
N. Y., and settled in Saratoga county in 1835. He was a millwright by occupation, 
and worked at his trade in this county for a number of years, dying in the village of 
Ballston Spa at the age of seventy years. He married Hannah Wilson, and reared 
a family of six children, one of his sons being Return J. Burnham (father), who was 
born in Washington county in 1821, and has been a resident of the village of Balls- 
ton Spa for the last sixty-eight years. In early manhood he learned the trade of 
carpenter, and followed that occupation here until about 1875, when the increasing 
infirmities of age and disabilities received in the Civil war compelled him to retire 
from active busines. He is now well advanced in his seventy-third year. In 18G3 
he enlisted in Co. F, Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery, and served until the 
close of the Civil war. In politics he is a Republican, and for many years has been 
a strict member of the Methodist Episcopal church. On July 24, 1845, he married 
Elizabeth Jones, of Schoharie county, this State, and to their union was born a 
family of ten children, six of whom still survive: Henry W., who enlisted with his 
father in Co. F, Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery, in 1863, served until the war 
ended, and now resides at Ballston Spa, N. Y. ; James A., the subject of this .sketch; 
Nathaniel J., Arthur W., Return J., jr., and Carrie P., all residing at Ballston Spa, 
N. Y. The deceased were Lina, Lela, George F. and Louis G. Mrs. Elizabeth 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 115 

Burnham, the mother of this family, was born in Schoharie county, this State, in 
in 1827, and is consequently in the sixty-eighth year of her age. She is a member 
of the Methodist Epi.scopal church, and her life, although passed principally in the 
seclusion of her own home, has exemplified the virtues of noble Christian woman- 
hood, and won for her the respect and esteem of all who know her and the profound- 
est love of her children. 



Quinu, William H., was born in Ballston Spa, March 29, 18CC. His father, John 
Quinn, came from Ireland in 1852, and settled in Ballston and was a scythe maker 
lify trade; he married Elizabeth Cunningham and died in Ballston in 1877. William 
H. Quinn was educated in the public schools of Ballston and learned the drug busi- 
ness with Redmond & Mitchell. In 1890 he became associated with W. J. Redmond 
under the firm name of W. J. Redmond & Co. After Mr. Redmond's death he pur- 
chased his interest and is now conducting a successful business. 



Freeman, Andrew J., was born in Saratoga Springs, September 7, 1844, a son of 
Moses Freeman, a native of Vermont. He was educated in the academy at Mechan- 
icville and in 1862 enlisted in Co. C, 115th N. Y. Vols., taking part in the campaign 
of Florida and Shenandoah \'alley, and while in front of Petersburg lost his left leg. 
In 180") he received an honorable discharge and returned to Ballston Spa, where he 
established his present business as pension attorney. In 18G1 he married Phoebe 
Pettis, and they have one daughter, Mrs. Mattie Hall. Mr. Freeman has served as 
overseer of the poor and was elected police justice in 1897. He is a member and 
commander of William H. McKittrick Post No. 4G, G. A. R. 



SchafTer, Lawrence J., was born in Rochester, N. Y., January 5, 1847, a son of 
Jacob and Anna (Robb) SchafFcr, and was educated in the schools of his native place. 
At fifteen years of age he began railroading, which he followed for sixteen years, 
one and a half years as fireman and fourteen and a lialf years as engineer, working 
with the C. & O., B. & O. and the N. V. Central. In 1882 he began his present busi- 
ness and has conducted one of the finest restaurants in the State. His entire busi- 
ness was consumed when the Delaware and Hudson depot burned, but he at once 
rebuilt, and on March 30, 1899 — eight weeks from the date of the fire — he reopened 
the depot restaurant. In 1870 Mr. Schaffer married Mary Bell Scagges. Mr. Schaf- 
fer is a prominent Mason, being a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council, 
Commaudery and Shrine. His parents came to America from Germany in 1841 and 
settled in Rochester. His father died January 1, 1891 ; his mother is still living. 



Waterbury, Heman L., was born in Saratoga Springs, February 23, 1845, a son of 
Capt. Philo R. and Mehitable (Bullard) Waterbury. Mr. Waterbury was educated 
in the schools of his native village, where he also learned telegraphy. In 1863 he 
took a position with the Western Union in Albany, and there remained until 1883, 
when the company appointed him manager of the Saratoga main office and all its 
branches. This position he still retains and is regarded as one of the most experienced, 
reliable and efficient managers in the county. In 1865 Mr. Waterbury married 
Louise M. Stover, daughter of Rev. Ensign Stover, a Methodist Episcopal minister. 



116 ' OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Their children are Charlotte S., wife of Dr. C. S. Peeke; Capt. Fred M. Walerbury 
of the Saratoga Eagle, and Minerva L. The Waterbury family is of English descent, 
William Waterbury, father of Capt. Philo R., settling in Saratoga Springs in 1793, 
so that the family have been in the county over one hundred years. Mr. Waterbury 
was connected with the Saratoga Citizens' Corps for many years, both as private 
and sergeant. He has all the Masonic orders and is past presiding officer in all 
those bodies that meet in Saratoga county. 



Ashton, Edward B., one of the most enterprising of Saratoga's younger business 
men, was born at Port Edward, August 7, 1870, and was educated in his native 
place. la 1890 he came to Saratoga Springs and established a coal and feed busi- 
ness, which he has since conducted with success. Mr. Ashton's parents were David 
B. and Elizabeth (Stewart) Ashton. His great-grandfather. Major Ashton, w-as a 
soldier who served with distinction in the Revolutionary war. Mr. Ashton is a mem- 
ber of the Royal Arcanum, and when at Fort Edward was a member of the Durkee 
Hose Company, of which he was president for a year. On September 19, 1895, he 
married Harriet Lohnas, daughter of Deyoe and Huldah Lohnas. They have one 
son, D. Lohnas Ashton. 



Stiles, Jesse, was born in the town of Wilton, Saratoga county. N. Y., a son of 
James D. and Catherine (Esmond) Stiles. He was educated in the public schools 
and by private tuition of his uncle; he then took a course in the Fort Plain Insti- 
tute, after which he taught school for eight terms. He then entered the office of 
Judge J. R. Putnam at Saratoga Springs in May, 1872, and was admitted to the bar 
in June, 187,5. In 187fi he opened an office for himself and has since been an active 
and successful practitioner. Mr. Stiles has been the originator of the plan of estab- 
lishing an institution at Saratoga Springs for the care of members of tlie Improved 
Order of Red Men who are or may be dependent upon the order. He first brought 
forth his idea at the Association of Tribes in Schenectady in 1890; again at the 
great Council at Saratoga in August of the same year; and at the Association of 
Tribes of Greater New York, when it took definite form, and a bill was introduced 
" To Incorporate the Improved Order of Red Men's Home Association of New 
York." The novel feature of this plan as presented consists of the fact that it is 
proposed to purchase a spring for the corporate body, put the water on the market 
and to request all members of the order to purchase it when desiring a beverage, 
and thus obtain a revenue to support the home. In 1892 Mr. Stiles purchased the 
river rights on both sides of the Hudson for about three and one-half miles below 
Palmer Falls for the purpose of erecting an electric plant. Since that time the In- 
ternational Paper Company have purchased these rights and now propose to use 
thera in connection with their paper manufacture. He is prominent in Odd Fellow- 
ship and has lectured in lodges in different States, notably south and west. lie is at 
present district deputy grand master and has held all the oflices up to this one; he is 
also president of " The Association of the Tribesof Northern New York of Imjjroved 
Order of Red Men " and has represented thera in all the councils of the State. The 
Stiles family is the oldest in the county, John Stiles, the progenitor of the family 
having settled in this county in 1698. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 11" 

Cummings, Michael S., was born at Troy, N. Y., February 18, 1855, but came to 
Saratoga with his parents when five years old. lie was educated in the schools of 
Saratoga Springs and his first employment was in connection with some of the 
springs which have made this place famous. He next became a clerk in the news 
business and subsequently Iiad charge of a branch store for Aaron Hill. In 1878 he 
entered the law offices of Carr & Peters, and became clerk to Mr. Peters when that 
gentleman was elected surrogate of the county. In 1880 Mr. Cummings was elected 
town clerk and has held the office for a period of seventeen years, a record which 
speaks highly of his efficiency, for his incumbency has never been imperiled by the 
conflicts of political parties. He is a Democrat in politics, but is highly popular with 
Republicans, because of his ability and the high efficiency with which he discharges 
the duties of his office. He has also been registrar of vital statistics for the town 
and village of Saratoga for ten years. He has been a member and secretary of the 
Jeffersonian Club since its organization in 1881. Mr. Cummings's parents were Syl- 
vester and Jane E. (Allen) Cummings. On November 23, 1881, Mr. Cummings 
married Miss Kitlie M. Brown of Albany, and their children are Millie and Marie, 
and Gerald Cummings. 

Bang. H. A. & W. F. — These enterprising hotel men purchased the well known 
Kensington Hotel in Saratoga Springs, in September, 1897, and conduct it upon the 
best up-to-date methods. They are widely known and experienced hotel proprie- 
tors. The Kensington is one of the largest and most select houses for which Sara- 
toga Springs is famous and is delightfully situated and handsomely appointed, hav- 
ing accommodations for four hundred guests, and is open from June to October each 
year, while its rates are extremely moderate when compared with its splendid accom- 
modations. Both the Messrs. Bang are natives of New York city. H. A. Bang is a 
graduate of the Stevens Institute of Technology, with the degree of mechanical en- 
gineer and is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers; also of 
the American Institute of Mining Engineers. Their grandfather, Henry J. Bang, 
kept a hotel at Bingen on the Rhine, but came to America with his son about 1817, 
and in 1853 was conducting a wine importing business in New York city, also the 
well known Bang's Restaurant, in which he was succeeded by his sons, one of 
which, Henry J., father of H. A. and W. F., became proprietor of the Sturtevant 
House in 1893, where he continued up to the time of his death, February 28, 1896; 
since then the hotel has been under the management of his sons. The lilessrs. 
Bang are members of the Hotel Men's Association, New York city; Hotel Men's 
Association, New York State, and Merchants' Association, New York city. 



Lawtou, George I^-rkins, and Jeannie Menteith Wilson Lathrop, his wife. The 
main purpose of this sketch is to make a genealogical record. George Perkins Law- 
ton is the only child of Anthony Lawton of Newport, R. I., and Troy, N. V. (and 
Mary A. Wilkinson), son of Robert Lawton of Newport, R. I. (and Sarah Anthony), 
son of Robert Lawton of Newport, R. I. (and Mercy Easton), son of John Lawton of 
Portsmouth, R. I. (and Naomi Lawton), son of Isaac Lawton of Portsmouth, R. I. 
(and Mary Hill), son of Isaac Lawton of Portsmouth, R. I. (and Elizabeth Tallman), 
son of Thomas Lawton of Portsmouth, R. I. (and Grace Bailey, nee Parsons). Naomi 
Lawton, above, was the daughter of Job Lawton (and Priscilla Thurston), son of 



118 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

George Lawlon (and Naomi Hunt), sou of George Lawton and Elizabeth Hazard, all 
of Portsmouth, R. I. Thomas, and the last named George Lawton, were brothers, 
of the family of Lawton, of Lawton Hall, near Stoke-on-Trent, Cheshire, England, 
who emigrated to Boston in the spring of 1636, and removed to and settled at Ports- 
mouth, R. I., 1638-39. See Austin's Genealogical Dictionary of R. L and Omerod's 
History of Cheshire, Eng., Vol. 3, pt. 1, p. 16, 2d edition, in which the pedigree is 
carried to temp Henry II. Mary A. Wilkinson, above, was the daughter of Almadus 
Wilkinson, of Scituate, R. I. (and Margaret Magee), son of Joseph Wilkinson, 3d, of 
Scituate (and Elizabeth Peckham, nee Brownell), son of Joseph Wilkinson, jr., of 
Scituate (and Alice Jenckes), son of Joseph Wilkinson of Scituate (and Martha Pray), 
son of Samuel Wilkinson of Providence. R. I. (and Plain Wickenden), son of Law- 
rence Wilkinson of Providence, R. I. (and Susanna Smith), son of William Wilkin- 
son of Lanchester, county Durham, Eng. (and Mary Conyers), son of Lawrence Wil- 
kinson of Harperly Park, Lanchester, Durham, Eng. Lawrence, first above, "was a 
lieutenant in the army of Charles I, captured at Newcastle. October 22. 1644; his 
estate having been sequestered and sold by the Long Parliament, he emigrated with 
his wife and son and settled at Providence, R. I., January 19, 1646. See Flower's 
Visitation of Durham; Sequestrations in Durham 1045-47; Memoirs of the Wilkinson 
Family by Wilkinson. Joseph Wilkinson, 3d, was a .soldier in R. I. troops. Revolu- 
tionary war, for a year. See Pension Record, July 24, 1838, O. W. & N. Div., Rev- 
olutionary Bureau of Pensions. Mr. Lawton is al.so fifth in descent from William 
Anthony, deputy to the Assembly of R. I. 1709-10-16; governor' .s assistant of R. I. 
1717-39; 6th in descent from Isaac Lawton (above), governor's assistant of R. I. 
1690-91, deputy to the Assembly 1696, 1098. 1699, 1702, 1700, 1708; 6th in descent 
from Benjamin Hall, deputy to Assembly 1699, 1701, 1704, 1707, 1713-14, governor's 
assistant of R. I. 1701-02; 6th in descent from Joseph Jenckes, 3d, deputy to Assem- 
bly 1091, 1698, 1699, 1700, speaker 1098-99, 1707-08. governor's assistant 1708-12, 
deputy governor 1715-27, governor of R. I. 1727-33; 0th in descent from Edward 
Gray, deputy to Assembly R. I. 1666-79, soldier in King Philip's war 1676; 7th in 
descent from William Wodell, deputy to Assembly R. I., 1664-67, 1669, 1070, 1672, 
1673, 1680, 1684, 1686; member governor's council. King Philip's War 1676; 7th in 
descent from George Lawton (above), deputy to Assembly, 1665, 1672, 1675-76. 1679- 
80; member governor's council. King Philip's war 1676. governor's assistant of R. I. 
1680-86, 1689-90; 7th in descent from John Easton, attorney-general, 1653-54. 1656, 
1660; deputy to Assembly 1665-06, 1671-72; deputy governor 1074-70; governor of 
R. I. 1090-95; 7th in descent from Robert Hazard, deputy to Assembly, R. I. 1004- 
07, 1070-71 ; officer R. I. troops King Philip's war 1076; 8th in descent from Thomas 
Hazard, member Provincial Convention, New Netherlands, Dutch and English 
War, 1653-4. (See N. Y. Civil List). 7th in descent from Joshua Coggeshall, 
deputy to Assembly 1664, 1666-68, 1670-72; governor's assistant of R. I. 1669-76; 
7th in descent from John Coggeshall, jr., general treasurer, 1653-54, 1004-72, 
deputy to Assembly, 1005-71, 1675, 1683; governor's assistant 1663-65, 1072, 1674, 
1676, 1683-80; general recorder, 1676-77, 1691-92; deputy and acting governor, 1686, 
deputy governor of R. I. 1689-90; 7th in descent from Edward Thurston, deputy to 
Assembly, 1667, 1671-74, 1680-80; governor's assistant of R. I., 1075, 1686, 1690-91; 
7th in descent from Edward Smith, deputy to Assembly, 1658-59, 1664-66; governor's 
assistant of R. I., 1654-55, 1058-59, 1005-66; 7th in descent from Joseph Jenckes, jr., 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 119 

governors assistant of R. I., 1080-86, 1089-!»1, 1695-96, 1698; 7th in descent from 
Rev. John Brown, founder of Brown University, governor's assistant of R. I., 1665- 
66; 7th in descent from John Rogers, member of Capt. Miles Standish's Co., 1643, 
et seq. early Indian wars, deputy to the general court Plymouth Colony, 1657; 7th 
in descent from Edward Richmond, deputy to Assembly of R. 1., 1678-79, 1686, gen- 
eral solicitor, 1667-70, 1672-76, attorney-general, 1677-80, lieutenant R. I. troops. 
King Philip's war, 1676; 8th in descent from Nicholas Easton, attorney-general, 
1653-54, 1656-76, 1680, 1683-86, 1689-90, president of R. I., 1650-54, deputy to As- 
sembly, 1665-66, deputy governor, 1666-71, governor of R. I., 1672-74; 8th in de- 
scent from John Coggeshall, deputy to general court, Mass. Bay Colony, 1634-37. 
governor's assistant of R. I., 1640-44, first president of R. I., 1647; 8th in descent 
from William Balstone, general treasurer, 1641-48, 1657, 1673, governor's assistant 
of R. I., 1656-7'2; 8th in descent from Obadiah Holmes, member governor's council 
of R. 1., King PhiHp's war, 1676; 8th in descent from William Ballard, member An- 
cient and Honorable Artillery Co., Mass., soldier in King Philip's war, 1676; 8th in 
descent from William Peabody, member Capt. Myles Standish's Co. , 1643, et seq. 
early Indian wars, deputy to general court, Plymouth Colony, 1633-41, 1670-83; 9th 
in descent from John Alden (and Priscilla Molines), member Capt. Myles Standish's 
Co., as above, deputy to general court, Plymouth Colony, 1641-49, member council 
of war, 16.53-60, 1667-76. governor's assistant, 1633-41, 1650-86. See Year Book and 
Supplement, Society of Colonial Wars, 1898. Also 6th in descent from Gideon Free- 
born of Portsmouth, R. I., deputy to the Assembly of R. I., 1675-90, 1703-04, 1713; 
7th in descent from Rev. William Wickenden of Providence, R. I., deputy to the 
Assembly of R. I., 1664-66; 7th in descent from Lawrence Wilkinson of Providence, 
R. I., deputy to the Assembly of R. I., 1667-73; 7th in descent from Henry Timber- 
lake of Newport, R. I., deputy to the Assembly of R. I., 1663; 7th in descent from 
Peter Tallman of Portsmouth, R. I., general solicitor of R. I., 1661, deputy to the 
Assembly, 1663-65; 8th in descent from Hugh Parsons of Portsmouth, R. I., deputy 
to the Assembly of R. I., 1078; 8th in descent from George Allen of Sandwich, dep- 
uty to the General Court, Plymouth Colony, 1641-43; 8th in descent from Thomas 
Brownell of Portsmouth, R. I., deputy to the Assembly of R. I., 1664-65, 1661-63. 
.See Austin's Genealogical Dictionary of R. I., Savage's Genealogical Dictionary of 
New England, and Pearce's Colonial Civil List. Mr. Lawton is also 23d in descent 
from William d'Albiniand Robert de Ros; 25th in descent from William de Mowbray, 
John Fitz Robert, Gilbert de Clare and John de Lacie; 26th in descent from Richard 
de Clare; 27th in descent from Henry de Bohun, Robert de Vere, Hugh Bigod, Saher 
de Quincey and Eustace de Vesci; 28th in descent from Roger Rigod; elected sure- 
ties to compel the observance of Magna Charta by King John, at Runnemede, June 
15, A. D. 1215. See his pedigree in the Magna Charta Barons and Their American 
Descendants, by Browning (1898) p. 381, et seq. Mr. Lawton was born at Albany, 
August 19, 1847, from whence he removed to Troy, N. Y. , in 1849. He was educated 
in the public schools, St., Paul's Parish School, and the Troy Academy at Troy, the 
Vermont Episcopal Institute, Burlington, Vl., and at Williams College, graduating 
from there B. A. in 1868. While there, he was a Chi Psi and a member of Phi Beta 
Kappa. He was admitted to the bar December 9, 1869, and practiced law at Troy, 
N. v., until 1.S8S, when he retired. Mr. T.,avvton was a successful lawyer, employed 
in many of the important public and private litigations of that period and region. 



120 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

He was also an ardent member of the Republican party and honored by its nomina- 
tion for district attorney of Rensselaer county, but was defeated. In ISSO he was 
appointed judge advocate of the 3d Div. , N. G. N. Y., with rank of lieutenant-colo- 
nel and served until 1S88, when he resigned. In 1890 Mr. Lawton became a resident 
of the village of Saratoga Springs, and was appointed a commissioner to build the 
village hall, which duty he discharged. Mr. Lawton is a member of the Saratoga 
and other clubs, of the Society of Colonial Wars, of the Order of Runnemeade, the 
New York Historical Society and other societies. On November 5, 1885, Mr. Law- 
ton married Jeannie Menteith Wilson Lathrop, daughter of Daniel Shields Lathrop 
of Albany, N. Y. (and Harriet Menteith Wilson), son of Dyer Lathrop of Albany 
(and Jane Shields), son of Jedediah Lathrop, jr., of Bozrah, New London county. 
Conn., and Herkimer county, N. V., (and Amy Gardiner), son of Jedediah Lathrop 
of Norwich, Conn., (and Abigail Hyde), son of Israel Lathrop, jr., of Norwich. Conn, 
(and Mary Fellows), son of Israel Lathrop of Norwich. Conn, (and Rebecca Bliss), 
son of Samuel Lathrop of New London. Conn, (and Elizabeth Scudder), son of Rev. 
John Lathrop of Etton, Yorkshire, Eng , and Scituate and Barnstable, Mass. (and 
his wife), son of Thomas Lowthroppe of Cherry Burton and Etton, Harthill Wapen- 
take, East Riding of Yorkshire, son of Robert Lowthroppe of North Burton, York- 
shire, son of John Lowthroppe of Cherry Burton, about four miles from Lowthroppe, 
a.ssessed, subsidy roll, 37th year Henry VIII, for twice as much as any other inhab- 
itant of the parish. See Lathrop Memorial by Huntington. Harriet Menteith Wil- 
son, above, is the daughter of James Alexander Wilson of Albany, N. Y. (and Jane 
Louisa Harriet Menteith), son of Joseph Wilson of Albany, N. Y. (and Sarah Fonda), 
son of James Alexander Wilson of Basking Ridge, N. J., and Lansingburgh, N. Y. 
(and Sarah Annan), probably a grand.son of Alexander Wilson of Perth Amboy, N. 
J. Mrs. Lawton is descended from the following Revolutionary soldiers: Major 
Abraham Dow Fonda; Lieut. Isaac Lansing and privates Jedediah Lathrop, jr., 
James Wilson, Daniel Shields and William Van Wie. See Ancestry Books of the 
Daughters of the American Revolution. Mrs. Lawton is also 5th in descent from 
Daniel Hyde, captain 3d Co. Militia, 1746 et seq. Old French War; 7th in descent 
from Johannes Beeckman, captain Co. Albany County Militia, expedition against 
Canada, 1709; 7th in descent from Hendrick Van Nes, magistrate at Willemstadt. 
(Albany), and Colony of Rensselaerwyck, October 6, 1673, et seq. ; 7th in descent 
from Samuel Lathrop, judge of the first local court of New London, Conn., May, 
1649, et seq. ; 7th in descent from Philip Sherman, general recorder of Rhode Isl- 
and, 1647; 7th in descent from George Gardiner, a founder of Newport, 1st 8 mo.. 
1638, commissioner to the court of elections (Legislature), 1640. 1662; 8th in descent 
from Alexander Lindsay Glen, magistrate at Fort Orange (Albany), 1654-60; 7th in 
descent from Jacob Glen, lieutenant of Captain Wendell's company Albany County 
Militia, 1685, et seq. ; 8th in descent from Pieter Winne, magistrate at Willemstadt (Al- 
bany), Colony of Rensselaerwyck, etc., 1674, etseq., town major of Militia at Albany, 
May 24, 1689, et seq., temp Revolution against James II ; 8th in descent from Cornelis 
Hendricse Van Nes, magistrate at Albany and Schenectady, 1664-60; 8th in deficent 
from Evert Janse Wendel, magistrate at Fort Orange (Albany) 1660-62 ; 8th in descent 
from Jacob Janse Schermerhorn, magistrate at Fort Orange (Albany), 1656, 1674-75; 
8th in descent from Isaac De Poorest, one of the Nine Men, New Amsterdam (NewY'ork), 
1652; 8th in descent from Resolved Waldron. deputy schout fiscal at New Amster- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 121 

dam, 1658, schout fiscal at Harlem, 1661, magistrate at Harlem, 1CT3; 8th in descent 
from Rev. John Lathrop, first minister of the parish at Scituate, Mass., 1634, et seq., 
and at Barnstable, Mass., 1644, et seq. ; 8th in descent from Hugh Caulkins, deputy 
to general court Connecticut for New London and Norwich, 1658-70; 9th in descent 
from Hendrick Kip, one of the Nine Men, New Amsterdam, 1647-52. See Year 
Book Society of Colonial Dames in the State of New Vork. Mrs. Lawton is a mem- 
ber of the Saratoga Chapter. Daughters of the American Revolution, the Mary 
Washington Memorial Society of Washington, D. C. , the Society of Colonial Dames 
iji the State of New Vork, the Huguenot Society of America, the National Society of 
New England AVomen, and the College Women's Club of New York; is president of 
the Beniis Heights Society, Children of the American Revolution, and a trustee of 
the Post Parliament Debating Club of New York; is a manager of the Home for 
Friendless Women and of St. Margaret's House at Albany and a manager of the 
New York Convalescent Home. Mrs. Lawton was born at Albany, and edu- 
cated at the Albany Female Academy, graduating in 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Lawton 
have one child, Daniel Lathrop Lawton, born December 28, 1886, at Albany, N. Y. 
The authorities used in deducing the pedigrees referred to above are as follows: For 
tlie Lawton and allied lines. Savage's Genealogical Dictionary of New England; 
Austin's Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island; 160 Allied Families by Austin ; 
the Vital Records of Rhode Island by Arnold; Peterson's History of Rhode Island; 
History of the Robinson, Hazard and Sweet families; Stone's Our French Allies; 
Colonial Records of Mass. Bay Colony, Plymouth Colony and of Rhode Island ; Town 
Records of Dartmouth, Mass. ; Pearce's Colonial Civil List; Bodge's Soldiers in King 
Philip's War, 2d ed. ; will of James Easton, Middletown, R. I., Bk. 2, Probate Rec- 
ords, pp. 41-3; will Mary A. Lawton, Bk. 112, p. 253; will Anthony Lawton, Bk. 
wills 153, p. 35, surrogate's office, Troy, N. Y. ; Memoirs Wilkinson Family by Wil- 
kinson; Chad Brown Memorial Book of the Eddy Family; Arnold's History of R. I. 
For the Lathrop and allied lines, the Lathrop Memorial, Vol. 1, 3d series, Mass. 
Hist. Collections; Savage's Genealogical Dictionary of New England; The Gene- 
alogy of the Hyde Family; Austin's Genealogical Dictionary of Rhode Island ; Tall- 
cot's Notes on New York and New England Families; Caulkins's History of New 
London and of Norwich; the Colonial Records of Connecticut ; Baker's History of Mont- 
ville ; Munsell's History of Albany and Schenectady Counties ; Munsell's Collections on 
the Historyof Albany, Vol. 4; Genealogies First Settlers of Albany and Vols. 1, 3, 3; 
Pearson's Early Records of Albany county, etc. ; Early Documentary History of N. V. ; 
Documents Relating to the History of N. Y. ; O'Callaghan's Registry of the New 
Netherlands ; O'Callaghan's History of Harlem ; Baird's Huguenot Emigrants to Amer- 
ica; Hotten's American Emigrants; Riker's History of Harlem ; Weiss's History of 
Albany and of Troy and Lansingburgh; New York Genealogical and Biographical 
Record, Vol. 8; Munsell's Annals of Albany; Munsell's American Ancestry, Vol. 1; 
Monuments and Grave Markers in Benjamin Wilson Monteith and Lathrop lots, Al- 
bany Rural Cemetery ; O'Callaghan's History of the New Netherlands; Collections 
N. Y. Gen. and Bio. Society; Marriages, Dutch church. New York, Vol. 1; Pear- 
son's First Settlers of Schenectady; Colonial History of N. Y., Vol. 1.; Archives, 
will Abiaham D. Fonda, Bk. wills No. 2, p. 443, surrogate's office, Albany; Deeds, 
Hendricke Fonda to Sarah Wilson, Maria Vandenberg to same, Bk. deeds 35, pp. 
163-4, Albany Co. clerk's office; will Joseph Wilson, Bk. wills 10, p. 231, same surro- 



122 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

gate's office; will James A. Wilson, Bk. wills 21, p. 423, same surrogate's office; will 
of Jane M. Wilson, Bk. wills 30, p. 20(!, same surrogate's office; will William Van 
Wie, Bk. wills No. 4, p. 471, same surrogate's office; will George Monteith, probated 
May 17, 1856, same surrogate's office; will of Dyer Lathrop, Bk. 15 wills, p. 300; will 
Jane A. Lathrop, Bk. wills 30, p. 124; will D. S. Lathrop, Bk. wills 30, p. 232, same 
surrogate's office ; New York Civil List; N. Y. Hist. Man. English, 1664-1676. 



White, Ceorge F., was born in New York city, August 17, 1814, and came to 
Saratoga Springs in 1820. Here he learned the printer's trade and made it his life 
occupation. He was foreman in the printing office of Gideon M. Davison for many 
years, and after the death of Mr. Davison continued as foreman of the office with 
his son, John M. Davison, until his death, at which time the office was closed. In 
1836 Mr. White married Esther Ann Bailey, who died June 10, 1854, leaving three 
children: George Henry, William Kelly and Mary Frances. William Kelly White 
was a prominent lawyer of Davenport, Iowa. He married Nellie Barger of Penn- 
sylvania; they had one daughter, Mary, now the wife of Walter Palmer of Ottawa, 
111. William K. White died in 1892. Esther Ann Bailey was a daughter of Ethan 
Allen Bailey, a descendant of the Ethan Allen family. George Henry White is a 
lawyer in Grand Rapids, Mich., and Mary F. White is now the wife of J. S. Altman, 
of Davenport, Iowa. On July 28. 1856, George F. White married Margaret, daugh- 
ter of George and Elizabeth (House) Lightball of Montgomery county. Mrs. White's 
great-grandfather fought in the Indian wars and was taken prisoner by the Indians 
and held for several years. George F. White is one of the oldest residents of Sara- 
toga Springs, where he has lived for seventy two years, and his entire life has been 
characterized by honesty and the highest integrity. His genial mind and generous 
heart have won for him universal esteem, and the faithful discharge of his duties in 
business and private life led his fellow citizens to confer some honors on him and to 
extend others which were not accepted. He always took a lively interest in educa- 
tional and public affairs and was for many years elected and re-elected to the board 
of village trustees, besides serving on the board of education, of which he was pres- 
ident for a year. His parents were William K. and Susan (Shaw) White. Mr. 
White's father was born in Belfast, Ireland, and educated in Trinity College for the 
sea, and was captain of his own vessel at twenty-one years of age. He was in the 
war of 1812 and was Ijringing three prize vessels into Boston harbor when he was 
captured and taken to England, where he was held in Dartmouth prison for eighteen 
months. George F. White had three brothers and one sister. His twin-brother, 
William S. White, was a prominent tanner in New Jersey. He died in 1889. His 
brother, Isaac K. White, is a resident of California. His Sister, Mrs. S. M. Albright, 
died at Washington, D.C., in January, 1890. His youngest brother, John K., died 
in New Jersey in 1851. 

Jenkins, Frank M., son of James B. and Frances E. (Gorsline) Jenkins, was born 
in the village of Oneida, Madison county, N. Y., August 19, 1854, and came to the 
village of Saratoga Springs with his parents, when about four years of age, to re- 
side. In his early boyhood he attended private and public schools here, and also 
Y'onkers Military Academy and Waterford schools. In 1875 he entered the law 
office of Hon. John R. Putnam to pursue the study of law, and was admitted to the 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 123 

bar in 1878. In 1879 he was appointed a justice of the peace to fill a vacancy in that 
office; at the time of his appointment he being the youngest justice ever holding the 
position in the county. In 1885 he received the party nomination for justice of the 
peace, and was elected and held the office continuously up to January 1, 18it9, at 
which time he took up again the practice of his profession. While acting justice his 
court business was the largest in the county, having between si.\ hundred and eight 
hundred cases a year. Mr. Jenkins has identified himself with a number of secret 
societies, clubs and associations in his village, holding at present office in a number. 
He is one of the original members of the Saratoga Citizens' Corps, and one of the 
founders, of whom there were four, who originated the comi)any. 



Reeves, (ieorge H., was born August 29, 1826, at Sandhurst, Kent county, Eng- 
land, where he was also educated, receiving a good practical English education, and 
after his school days he learned the trade of general merchandise in his father's 
store, a grocery and drapery store, and continued in that vocation in England until 
1848, when he came to America. He left England in the spring of that year, and 
after seeing America in its summer garb, decided to remain in this country. He 
accordingly settled at Saratoga Springs, which has since been his home, although he 
sjjent live years in New York city where he learned the painting trade. From 1848 
to 1863 he continued in the active work of his trade, but mainly as a contractor, and 
a large percentage of the linest buildings in Saratoga Springs were painted under 
his contracts and supervision. In 1863 he established a paint store, which has been 
a very successful business since its inception, and which Mr. Reeves still continues. 
On December 5, 1S51, Mr. Reeves married Matilda Hall. They had one daugh- 
ter, Elizabeth, who died August 4, 1863, in the eleventh year of her age. Mrs. 
Reeves died March 30, 1890. Mr. Reeves has an adopted daughter, Bertha Eugenia 
Reeves. Mr. Reeves has been a very successful business man, and his record is one 
of highest integrity. He is a member of the Second Presbyterian church and at the 
present time is a trustee of that church. He has also been a warm supporter of the 
Y.M.C.A. Mr. Reeves's parents were George and Maria (Wor.sley) Reeves, both of 
Kent county, England. 

Sturges, Charles H. — The legal profession has for centuries attracted some of the 
brightest minds of all civilized nations and the profoundest of these have constantly 
added and are still adding to the perfections of the codes that regulate and control 
the acts of men. The bar of Saratoga county has produced some illustrious names 
and among the active practitioners of to-day the subject of this sketch has already 
achieved distinction as an able counselor and reconstructor, of which the books bear 
evidence. Charles H. Sturges was born May 25, 1846, at Pittstown, Rensselaer 
county, N. Y. He was educated in the common schools and the Saratoga High 
School, which was then in reality a select school, but bore its present name. After 
leaving this institution his education was completed by private tuition under compe- 
tent tutors. Mr. Sturges at first entered commercial life through the contingencies 
of environment and it was not until late years that he found his natural field in the 
legal profession. His father owned a tannery, and while completing his education 
Charles H. Sturges learned this trade and subsequently went into partner>>hip with 
his father at the age of nineteen years. Almost immediately after the partnership 



124 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PKOPLK. 

was formed his father died, in 1865, and the management of the entire business fell 
into his hands; as well as that of a hide and leather trade which was conducted 
along with the tannery. These interests he managed successfully up to 1870, when 
the tannery was destroyed by fire and that branch of the business was discontinued. 
From 1S70 to 1879 Mr. Sturges was engaged in the hide and leather business and also 
dealt in wool. In the year 1879 he entered the surrogate's office as clerk, having 
previously perfected himself in stenography, which position he held until 1885. In 
1881 he was appointed superintendent of public works for Saratoga Springs, which 
at that time embraced the superintendency of both the streets and the water works. 
His appointment was for two years, but in 1882 a separate superintendent was ap- 
pointed for the water works and Mr. Sturges resigned his position. While acting as 
surrogate's clerk he applied himself assiduously to the study of law and was ad- 
mitted to the bar in 1886. Immediately thereafter he opened his present offices in 
the town hall, where he has since been actively engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession, principally as coun.sel, and has established a reputation for legal knowledge 
and sound judgment, which places him among the foremost lawyers of the Empire 
State. Among the many cases in which he has achieved distinction was the defense 
of John II. W. Cadby of Hudson, who was extradited from Canada on the charge of 
uttering forged paper. The prosecution undertook to put him on trial on twelve in- 
dictments of forgery. Mr. Sturges contended that this could not be done legally and 
the case continued for over a year on his overruled plea that Cadby could not be 
tried for forgery when he had been e.Ntradited for uttering forged paper. At this 
juncture the Supreme Court of the United States came out with a decision on a sim- 
ilar case sustaining Mr. Sturges's contention, and the wording of the Supreme 
Court's findings was .so similar to the plea of Mr. Sturges that the untenable sug- 
gestion was made that he had seen the finding of the court before it was handed 
down. In the case of George Clements, who had been cashier of the State Bank of 
Fort Kdward, Mr. Sturges established the people's right to appeal to the Court of 
Appeals after the discharge of the prisoner by the General Term. In the municipal 
case Glazier vs. Hebron (town) Mr. Sturges established the law that it is not negli- 
gence for town authorities to fail to erect a barrier where nature had placed trees 
along the side of a highway to take the place of a barrier. These and other im- 
portant cases are recorded in the books and furnish conclusive evidence of the high 
standing of Mr. Sturges as an able lawyer and sound counselor. In politics Mr. 
Sturges has always adhered to the Republican party, but has never sought office, 
the demands of his practice requiring all his attention. Notwithstanding this he 
accepted the presidency of the village for two years in the cause of good govern- 
ment. The town was wide open and a strong man and strong measures were neces- 
sary to restrain the gambling and sporting elements. To this end the village char- 
ter was changed and Mr. Sturges chosen president, and during the two years of his 
administration he not only curbed, but absolutely stopped gambling in the village, 
not even the famous Club House being exempted. Mr. Sturges is a prominent Ma- 
son, a member of Rising Sun Lodge No. 10;!, Rising Sun Chapter No. 131, Royal 
Arch Masons, Cryptic Council No. 37, Royal and Select Masters and Washington 
Commandery No. 33, Knights Templar. He has held all the chairs from master of 
the Blue Lodge, except high priest, and is the prelate of Washington Commandery, 
which he has now been for twenty-two consecutive terms. In 1866 Mr. Sturges 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 125 

married Florence S. Ilartwcll, who died in 1S78 without issue. In lf<S2 he married 
Emma A. Deal, daughter of Alexander and Martha (Ostrom) Deal of Dobbs Ferry. 
They have two children, Harold II. and Raymond Sturges. Mr. Sturges's parents 
were Wdliam and Charlotte (Sherman) Sturges. William Sturges was a native of 
Rensselaer county. His father, Rufus Sturges, was a native of Connecticut, where 
the family had resided for some generations. The Deal family came into Mont- 
gomery county in Us early settlement days. 



Town. Byron J., one of the enterprising and solid man of Saratoga Springs, was 
born in this village and received a liberal education in the schools of his native 
place and at North Chili, Monroe county, N. Y. He began the active business of 
life as a clerk and through his own energy and ability has become a prosperous busi- 
ness man. He was a trusted clerk in the post-office, Saratoga Springs, for a period of 
ten years, after which he was a clerk for the Thomas & Brown Company for some 
time, finally becoming a partner in that c ■■ncern. In 1888 he was elected receiver of 
taxes for Saratoga Springs for a term of three years, and was again elected in 18!)4, 
holdmg the office in all six years. In the spring of 1898 he accepted the position of 
bookkeeper in the First National Bank of Saratoga Springs. In all the positions 
which Mr. Town has held, whether public or private, he has discharged his duties 
with the strictest fidelity and marked ability and has merited the high esteem and 
public confidence which he enjoys. In 18TS Mr. Town married Lucy A. Stevens of 
Windsor, Broome county, N. Y. Their children are Clara, Anna, Howard S., Lil- 
lian and Byron J. Town, jr. Mr. Town's parents were F. A. and Emily (James) 
Town. His great-grandfather, William Town, was a patriot soldier in the Revolu- 
tionary war, and along with two brothers saw much active service in the strug- 
gle that won American independence. The ever famous battle of Bunker Hill is 
one of the engagements in which William Town participated. A strong strain of 
fighting blood has pervaded the family on both sides for generations. Mr. Town's 
grandfather, on his mother's side was an English soldier, and his brother, William 
F. Town, of Saratoga Springs, was a member of Company L, Second N. Y. X'ols., 
during the Spanish-American war. Byron J. Town's mother was born in London, 
England, but came to America when a child. On his father's side the family has 
been American for upwards of two hundred years, descending from old Puritan 
stock. 



Bloom, George W. , was born in Saratoga, May 1, 18G-I, a son of Daniel and Mar- 
garet Bloom, and educated in the public schools of that place. Me has been in the 
barber's business for sixteen years, the last five of which he has been proprietor of 
the Arcade Barber Shop. He is a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity and the 
Royal Arcanum. June l.'j. 1887. Mr. Bloom married Ella Laforce, and they have 
two children; Daniel and Irene. Mr. Bloom's father died in the winter of 1898. 



Mingay, Lieut. Richard, jr., is a descendant of an ancestry, every generation of 
which has produced men who have made their mark, both in the walks of peace and 
the ranks of war. His remote ancestors, who spelled the name Minguette, were 
Huguenots in France, and were men of spirit who fought for their cause, but wlio 
with thousands of other Huguenots emigrated to England after the massacre of St. 



126 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Bartholomew, which sent so many artisans and gentlemen across the channel to 
benefit the English realm. A direct descendant of one of these is the subject of this 
sketch, who was born in Filby, county Norfolk, England, September 4, 1848. In 
1850 his parents came to this country and settled in Saratoga Springs, where he was 
reared and educated, and where he has long been an active and enterprising citizen, 
taking an intelligent interest in the progress and welfare of the village and county 
and actively participating in some department of its mercantile and public life. 
While yet a boy the war of the Rebellion broke out and aroused the fighting blood in 
his veins, which his warrior ancestors had bequeathed to him, and he enlisted in 
March, 1865, was assigned to the quartermaster's department under Captain Moore, 
and served until October of the same year. He enlisted twice subsetjuently, first in 
1866, when he was rejected because of his youth, and again in 1867, when he resigned 
because he was assigned to the drum corps, although he enlisted for the ranks in the 
6th U. S. Cavalry. He was one of the organizers of the Saratoga Citizens' Corps 
and has been connected with it since 1878, when the corps was accepted by the State 
and mustered in. During these twenty years he has ever been indefatigable in his 
efforts to make and keep the corps a splendid military organization, and his zeal and 
worth are fully recognized and appreciated. He was made sergeant in 1884 and so 
remained until the breaking out of the Spanish-American war in the spring of 1898, 
when he was elected second lieutenant, passed his examination and received 
his commission ; he also served as battalion quartermaster for several years, and 
was a member of Company A, 64th Regiment for two years, three months and 
twenty three days. As a boy Mr. Mingay began the printer's trade, alternating 
with railroading in the summers, and after the war resumed his chosen occupation, 
which he has since pursued. For five years he conducted a large job printing office 
in Saratoga Springs, and for the past nine years has been foreman in the job de- 
partment of the Saratogian, the office in which he learned his trade. Mr. Mingay is 
a prominent Mason, a member of Rising Sun Lodge No 103, Rising Sun Chapter 
No. 131, Washington Commandery No. 33, Knights Templar. In politics Lieutenant 
Mingay is a Democrat, and while never desiring office has been water commissioner 
for Saratoga Springs, and is assistant chief of the fire department, in which he has 
served for thirty years. Mr. Mingay married Harriet Augusta Bullard, whose an- 
cestors were among the earliest in this county. Mr. Mingay's parents, Richard and 
Ruth (Corp) Mingay, are still living in Saratoga Springs, his father at the age of 
eighty-three and his mother at eighty-eight. Mr. Mingay's great-grandfather was a 
soldier in the Duke of Wellington's army and every generation of the family for 
three hundred years has produced successful and honorable men. 

Schwarte, John C, was born in Hanover, Germany, December 5, 1842, and came 
to the United States February 22. 1866. He learned the trade of tailor in the old 
country and pursued it as a journeyman for some years. He worked two years in 
New York city and came to Saratoga Springs, July 15, 1868. In 1874 he engaged in 
business for himself and conducts one of the leading merchant tailoring establish- 
ments of the village. Mr. Schwarte is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the 
Royal Arcanum. In 1871 he married Amanda Virginia Miller of New York city, and 
they have four sons: Lieut. John A. Schwarte, Alfred G., Walter, Louis E., and four 
daughters. Lieut. John A. and Alfred G. are members of the Saratoga Citizens' 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 127 

Corps (Company L, 2d Regiment, N. Y. Vols.), and served in the Spanish-Anieiic-an 
war. Mr. Schwarte's parents were Christian and Caroline (Wedemeyer) Schwarte. 
His mother died when he was nine years old and his father five years later, so that 
at the age of fourteen he was left to make his own way in the world, which he has 
done successfully, honestly and honorably. 



Myers, Simon H., was born in Bibra, Saxony, March 8, 1836, and came to the 
United States in 1856, settling first in Albany, where he took up the study of law, 
but soon removed to Schuylerville to go into the dry goods business. He remained 
there until 1861 when he went to western Vermont, remaining there until \8QH, and 
thence to Fair Haven, Vt., being engaged in the furniture business and in slate 
manufacturing. In 1873 he came to Saratoga Springs and established an art store 
and photographic studio. He was subsequently engaged in the jewelry business un- 
til he embarked in the real estate business. In May, 1893, he entered into partner- 
ship with Mr. W. S. Lefier, forming the firm of S. H. Myers & Co. Mr. Myers 
married Louise Andrews and they have two daughters, Carrie E. and Charlotte E. 
Mr. Myers is a member of the Royal Arcanum, A. O. U. W., and the Masonic fra- 
ternity, having been made a Mason in 1865 at Fair Haven, Vt. 



Carpenter, Charles E., was born in Saratoga Springs, April 5, 1855, a son of Charles 
and Electa (Wells) Carpenter. Mr. Carpenter has been twenty-three years in the 
shoe business, all of which time he has been connected with the same house. The 
business of Herrick & Lodewick, which he now conducts, was first started by J. L. 
Dodge of Troy, who sold out to William C. Herrick and Jeremiah Lodewick. Mr. 
Lodewick died April IS, ISiM, and his interest was purchased by Mr. F. C. Herrick 
in the spring of 18!)8. The business is nominally in charge of Carpenter & Calkins. 
The house carries one of the largest stocks of boots and shoes in Saratoga Springs, 
and Mr. Carpenter's long experience in this business enables him to control and re- 
tain the public patronage. In 1881 Mr. Carpenter married Anna M. Crary, daugh- 
ter of John Crary of Amsterdam. Mr. Carpenter was a charter member of the 
22d Separate Company and served an enlistment of five years, receiving an honor- 
able discharge. 



Fish, Charles F. — There are many old landmarks in Saratoga and among them 
is included Fish's Drug Store, now conducted by Charles F. Fish, a son of the 
founder, George Haughton Fish, who was a member of one of the oldest Connecticut 
families and a native of Hartford. He came to Saratoga in 1840 and for many years 
was engaged in the drug business, becoming a useful and well known citizen ; he 
died in 1884 in his eighty-second year. Charles F. Fish was born in Saratoga 
Springs and attended the common schools, and later what was then known as the 
Saratoga High School, conducted by the late Alexander Proudfit, D. D. Under the 
direction of his father, a lifelong druggist, Mr. Fish early began the study of phar- 
macy and passed all of the years of his earlier life in his father's store. In 1866 he 
was admitted to partnership and the firm name changed to George H. Fish & Son, 
and so continued until the death of the senior partner, when it was changed to the 
present style, Mr. Fish having to succeeded to his father's interest. For over six years 



128 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Mr. Fish was a member of the board of education, acting as president of that body 
for a period of four years. He has three children : Nellie Stacey, George Haughton 
and Florence Whittle.sey Fish. Caroline Whittlesey, the mother of Mr. Fish, was a 
native of Salisbury, Litchfield county, Conn., and a descendant of John Whittlesey 
who settled near the present site of Saybrook, Conn., in 1635. 



Scott- Waring, Mrs. C. E., was born August 29, 1858, at South Greenfield, N. V. 
She was educated at Ossinging Institute, Sing Sing, N. Y., and Young Ladies' Semi- 
nary of Plainfield, N. J. She began teaching at an early age, continuing for several 
terms, in the meantime studied oil painting under the personal instruction of 
Schussel of the Academy of Fine Arts of Philadelphia, also Waugh and Imely. In 
the School of Design, Philadelphia, .she was under the instruction of Peter Moran in 
oil painting, and Professor Jahn in China painting. Her work attracting attention, 
she opened a studio in 1884, and later started the " C. E. Scott Decorative Art." In 
181)3 she made an exhibit at the Columbia Exposition and was there awarded a 
" Medal " and " Diploma," receiving at the time several favorable criticisms in lead- 
ing art journals. She is possessed of a happy combination of artistic and business 
abilities, and has met with success highly pleasing to herself and friends, giving 
employment to a large number of people. She is the daughter of Alexander Hamilton 
Scott and Sophronia Wood Seymour, his wife; granddaughter, on the paternal side, in 
direct line, of Col. Lewis Scotland Barbara Dalrymple. his wife; great-granddaugh- 
ter of Lieut-Col. William Scotland Rosannagh Tait (Tate), his wife; and great- 
great-granddaughter of Archibald Scott, of Roxborough, Scotland. Licut.-Col. 
William Scott (1) was born at Roxborough, Scotland, in 1743, and emigrated to 
America about 1760, accompanied by his wife, Rosannagh Tait, who was a daughter 
of John Tait, a woolen merchant, near Garvagh, county Derry, Ireland. They set- 
tled in Peterboro, N. H., where he was a merchaut. He espoused the cause of the 
colonists at the beginning of the Revolution, was a captain of a New Hampshire 
company, April, 177.5, and in June, 1776, was made captain of the First Company in 
the First Regiment New Hampshire Line; he was commissioned major in the same 
regiment, his commission bearing date September 20, 1777; in 1779 was brigade- 
major of General Poor's Brigade; and on October 10, 1783, was commissioned lieu- 
tenant-colonel by brevet, and continued in the service until 1784, when his regiment 
was disbanded, having served full eight years in the Continental army. He was 
several times wounded, once severely in the left hand, crippling it for life, and 
for which injury he was pensioned. After the war for two years he was a mer- 
chant in Schenectady, N. Y. , following which he was a farmer in North Greenfield, 
N. Y. , until his death. In 1794 he was the first supervisor of his town, and was re- 
elected in 1796, and was justice of the peace from 1798 to 1803. He was a Mason, 
an original member of St. John's Lodge No. 90. In 1813 he built the house known 
as "The Homestead," where he died July 14, 1815, and was buried with Masonic 
honors in Bailey Cemetery, where, with his comrades in arms, he had slept in the 
wilderness in 1786. His wife died (date unknown) and he married, second, about 
1790, Charity Gilliland, a supposed relative of William Gilliland, the extensive land 
owner of Essex county, N. \'. She died October 29 1816, and was buried in Bailey 
Cemetery. Col. Lewis Scott, the second son and cliild (the first was Jolin. a physi- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 129 

cian, boru August 11, 1765, at Peterboro. N. II., and died at Buffalo, N. Y., May 6, 
1839) of William Scott, and grandfather of Mrs. Scott- Waring, was born April 8, 1774, 
at Peterboro, N. H. It is said that during the Revolutionary war he was in the care 
of a family at Athol, Mass. ; from 1786 to 1794 he was with his father in Oreenfield, 
and at the latter date lived in the house "on the hill," next above his father. In 
March, 1803, he was commissioned ensign in the G3d Regiment, N. Y. S. M. (Sara-' 
toga), and on the 8th day of Aprd, 1805. was commissioned lieutenant in the 59th 
Regiment, and on May 31, 1809, was made captain in the same regiment. On Sep- 
tember 14. 1814. he was captain in Colonel Prior's Regiment at Sackets Harbor, 
N. v., and on January 8, 1813, was in command of the erection of Fort Tompkins at 
that place. On June 7, 1816, he was commissioned second major in the 59th Regi- 
ment, and on March 27, 1819. received his commission as lieutenant-colonel in the 
.same regiment. On July 11, 1812, he became a member of the Washington Benevo- 
lent Society of Saratoga county, and a member^of St. John's Lodge, F. & A M.. July 
14. 1802, of which he was master several years. After the close of the war of 1812 
he was engaged in lumbering, farming and hotel-keeping. On April 38, 1794, he 
married Barbara Dalrymple, born February 21, 1774. She bore him nine children, 
as follows; William Smith Scott, born May 17, 1795, died in 1865 at Burnt Hills, 
N. Y. ; John Scott, born December 4, 1796, died May 4, 1861 ; Lucinda Scott, born 
October 9, 1798, died m 1892 at Glens Falls, N. Y. ; Lewis Scott, born May 8, 1801, 
died August 26, 1885; Alexander Hamilton Scott (father of Mrs. Scott-Waring); 
Dudley Fish Scott, born May 2, 1807, died May 12, 1894 ; Cherry Gilliland Scott, 
born November 20, 1809, living at Greenfield, N. Y. ; Samuel Stewart Scott, born 
November 22, 1812, died March 18, 1890, at Boone, Iowa; Mary Ann Scott, born 
April 2, 1815, died June 6, 1889, Col. Lewis Scott died February 22, 1866, at Green- 
field, N. Y., aged ninety-one years, ten months and fourteen days; and his wife 
Barbara February 20, 1858, at Greenfield. Alexander Hamilton Scott, fifth child 
and fourth son of Lewis Scott and father of Mrs. Scott-Waring, was born September 
4, 1804, in the house "on the hill," above The Homestead in Greenfield, N. Y. In 
1820 he studied trigonometry and surveying, and afterward did more or less survey- 
ing. In 1822 he enlisted in a company of cavalry, of which he later became captain ; 
and in the same year he qualified to teach district school in Luzerne, N. Y., which 
occupation he followed for the nine succeeding winters in the towns of Corinth and 
Greenfield. When he was twenty-one years of age his townsmen elected him justice 
of the peace, which office he held the greater part of his life. He prided himself on 
the fact that no decision of his had ever been set aside on appeal ; a well-known 
lawyer, who had many cases before him, .said he never knew when retained on a 
case before Squire Scott whether it would be tried or not, as his unvarying custom was 
to urge upon the contestants that they retire and endeavor to settle their differences 
between themselves, that a trial would engender bad blood, and make them bad 
friends and neighbors. He was an ardent advocate of learning. In 1830 he bought 
fifty acres of land of his father to save him from the burden of a mortgage. On No- 
vember 6, 1832, he was elected inspector of schools. On March 8, 1839, he bought a 
farm near his father, which he sold in 1868, and where five of his children were born. 
November 25, 1858, he bought the Seymour Hill farm in South Greenfield, where he 
lived until the time of his death. He was assessor of his town many years. On 
December 19, 1838, he married, at her father's home in Greenfield, Sophronia Wood 



130 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Seymour, born May 22, 1816, at Greenfield, and daughter of Thomas and Rebecca 
Maria (Wood) Seymour. She was the mother of his six children, as follows: Thomas 
Seymour, Myron Winfield, Edward Irvin. Clarence Wood, Amanda Maria, Cora 
EstelIe(Mrs. Scott- Waring). Alexander H. Scott died at his home on the Seymour Hill 
farm in South Greenfield, on January 9, 1879; his widow survives. Cora Estelle 
*Scott married Herbert Waring, son of Gilbert and Mary Ann (Scott) Waring, at 
Saratoga Springs, on January 2, 1893. They have no children. Mrs. Scott- Waring 
is a member of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, 
not only through her great-grandfather, Col. William Scott, on the paternal side, but 
also through Nathaniel Seymour, private and captain in Capt. Daniel Benedict's 
Company, 8th Regiment, Connecticut Militia, on the maternal side, as follows; 
Nathaniel Seymour (1) and wife Mary Carter ; Thomas Seymour (2) and wife, Rebecca 
Maria Wood; Sophronia Wood Seymour (3), who married Alexander Hamilton Scott, 
father of Mrs. Scott-Waring; and through John Carter, captain of the 9th Connecti- 
cut Militia, on the maternal side, as follows: John Carter (1) and Hannah Benedict, 
his wife; Mercy Carter, who married Nathaniel Seymour, maternal great-grand- 
father of Mrs. Scott- Waring. Mrs. Scott-Waring is in possession of much documen- 
tary evidence of her ancestry, and many valuable and interesting relics. 



Finch, Harvey L. , was born in Jonesville, Saratoga county, July 29, 1856, and ed- 
ucated in the district schools and Saratoga High School. In 1881 Mr. Finch estab- 
lished his present trade in wall paper, window shades, etc., and conducts the leading 
house of its kind in Saratoga county. On October 7, 1886, Mr. Finch married Abi- 
gail S. Winegar and they have three children: Reynold Winegar, Harriet Chris- 
tina, and Mary Elizabeth. Mr. Finch's parents were Morgan L. Finch, M.D., and 
Harriet C. King, his wife. Dr. Finch died in 1871. The King family has been in 
America since 1678, when James King settled in Connecticut. Eliphalet King came 
to Troy, N. Y. , in 1795; he was a lieutenant in the Revolutionary war and his com- 
mission was dated January 1, 1776. Harriet C. King, mother of Mr. Finch, was the 
daughter of Roger and Christina (Auringer) King. Mr. Finch has served three en- 
listments in the Saratoga Citizens' Corps. 



Mahon, Charles F., was born in Saratoga Springs, January G, 1866, a son of James 
and Mary (Kiernan) Mahon, natives of Ireland, who came to America in 1860. His 
father died in 1891, and his mother is still living. Mr. Mahon began business in con- 
nection with the Washington Spring, and later worked for Caleb W. Mitchell for 
nine years. He opened his present business, hotel and saloon, at 19 Phila street, in 
1889. Mr. Mahon is a member of the Improved Order of Red Men ; the Ancient 
Order of Hibernians and the Jeffersoniau Club. In 1887 he married Kate K. Haas. 

Swanick, James F. , corporation counsel of the village of Saratoga Springs, was 
born in Saratoga Springs, June 24, 1866. a son of Arthur and Catherine (Monahan) 
Swanick. He was educated in the schools of his native place and began his legal 
studies in the office of Putnam & Henning. In 1887 he was admitted to the bar and 
has since practiced with success in Saratoga Springs. He served as justice of the 
peace from January 1, 1889, to December 31, 1892. In the latter year he was elected 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 131 

corporation counsel and served two years. He was re-elected to tlic postion in 1897 
and is still in office. In the performance of the duties of corporation counsel he has 
been extremely successful and has exhibited a high order of legal acumen. When 
he was elected the corporation had actions pending in court amounting to over one 
hundred thousand dollars in claims. Several actions were tried which determined 
the rights of the litigants, and those not tried were discontinued, effecting a vast 
saving to the corporation. Mr. Swanick has been active in Democratic political cir- 
cles — both local and State. At the Democratic State Convention of 1898 he was 
prominently mentioned for the nomination of attorney-general. 



CoUamer, Warren B., was born in Greenfield, Saratoga county, February 2, \H2',i, 
and at an early age removed to Malta and thence to Wilton, where he grew up. lie 
has been a farmer most of his life, but in connection therewith ran a saw mill in 
Wilton for forty years. He was not only a successful business man, but also served 
on the board of supervisors in 1871, 1873, 1877 and 1878, and was one of the commit- 
ted of three who erected the almshouse and received a vote of thanks from the board 
of supervisors for the ethcient way in which they had completed the same; he was 
also collector for the town of Wilton for a time. He built the Collamer block on 
Broadway, Saratoga Springs, in 1.888, and in 1894 became a permanent resident of 
the village. Mr. Collamer married, first, Eliza Ann Cole, who died leaving a daugh- 
ter, Mary Ella, wifeof E. J. Smith of Wilton ; his .second wife was Sarah Cole, and his 
last wife, Mrs. Mary J. Calkins, formerly Mary J. Pratt. Mr. Collamer's father, 
Hiram Collamer, came to Saratoga Springs when there were only two houses in the 
village. Mr. Collamer has been a Republican since the parly was organized in 1855 
and voted for Fremont in 185(1. 



Thompson, N. Remick, son of David A. and Clara M. (Adsit) 'Pliompson, was 
born in Troy, N. V., November 37, 1871, and educated in the public schools of that 
city and Bennington, Vt. David A. Thompson was a veteran of the war of the Re- 
bellion ; he enlisted in Co. F, Seventy-seventh N. Y. Regiment, September 35, 1861, 
was mustered in as first sergeant, and in the fall of 1863 was promoted to first lieu- 
tenant, and finally received his commission of captain in the winter of 1864. He 
fought all through the war, part of the time doing the duty of sergeant, lieutenant 
and captain, when his company was depleted. He participated in all the engage- 
ments of the celebrated Seventy-seventh, prominent among them being the siege of 
Yorktown, battle of Mechanicsville, Va., Antietam, Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, 
Chantilly, Rappahannock, the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, the oper- 
ations about Petersburg, the battle of Winchester, Cedar Creek and the Appomat- 
tox campaign. After the war he worked at his trade, paper maker, in Troy until 
1884, when he went to Bennington, Vt. , and opened a laundry business. In 1894 he 
removed to Saratoga Springs and established the laundry firm of D. A. Thompson & 
Son. Mr. Thompson died in the spring of 1898, and the business is now conducted 
by his son, N. R. Thompson. 

Smith, Henry, was born in Kinderhook, in 18:i6, and resided in Albany five 
years, after which he lived in Troy and New York city until he came to Saratoga 
Springs in 1861. For fifty years he has been engaged in the express business, hav- 



132 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ing begun as a boy. He has always been connected with the National Express Co. 
He came to Saratoga Springs in 1861 to take charge for fifteen days, but has been 
the agent here ever since. In 1856 Mr. Smith married Jane Miller, and their chil- 
dren are Samuel Virgil. Francis Harvey, Frederick H., Hattie S. , wife of J. W. Ly- 
man, and Howard Livingston. Mrs. Smith's people are an old New England fam- 
ily, the progenitor of which came over in the Mayflower. In 1866 Mr. Smith 
organized the Adirondack E.xpress Co. Even more notable than this, however, was 
his conception and projection of an express company when scarcely more than a boy 
and without means; it was known as the Smith & ShaefEer Ft. Edward, Sandy Hill, 
Glens Falls and Lake George Express, and proved a great success. Mr. Smith's 
long incumbency of the office of agent for the National Express Co. is the best evi- 
dence of his valuable services. He is courteous and genial, and his life has been 
successful and honorable. 

Roddy, Miss Nellie F., has made her spacious and handsome store a center of in- 
terest to the female portion of the community and a prominent factor in the business 
life of Saratoga Springs. Miss Roddy is a native of Troy, but has been a resident 
of Saratoga Springs for several yeans. She is possessed of energy, enterprise and 
excellent business ability, having the freshest and choicest novelties as soon as they 
are ready for the trade. The business was established in 188" in a comparatively 
small way, but from the inception of the venture its growth has been steady and sub- 
stantial. The dry goods department was added in 1889, and later fancy goods. 
Some fifteen clerks and expert hands are employed. 



Flammer, Albert J., was born in Saratoga Springs, and educated in the schools of 
his native village. He selected the barber's trade for his occupation. His parents 
were Charles C. and Elizabeth (Armb) Flammer. both natives of Germany, who 
came to America in theiV youth. They were married February 21, 1867, at Saratoga 
Springs, and of their union are four sons; George R., who married Mary I Wild- 
man of Danbury, Conn., April 17, 1895, and now resides in Troy; Charles F., who 
married Elizabeth L. Van Dorn, February 20, 1898; Albert J. and Fred W. Charles 
F. Flammer and Fred W. Flammer constitute the firm of Flammer Brothers, hair 
dressers, of Saratoga Springs. 



Crocker, Rev. James N. , was for several years pastor of the Second Presbyterian 
Church at Saratoga Springs, and also conducted a successful private school. He 
was educated at Union College and Princeton Seminary, from both of which institu- 
tions he was graduated with honor. He was a man of fine literary ability and schol- 
arship and at the early age of eighteen was a teacher of classics at the Albany Acad- 
emy. During his residence in Saratoga Springs he took great interest in the 
progress and welfare of the village, contributed much to its moral and social status, 
and gained a high place in the estimation of his fellow citizens. He married Nancy 
A. Dillon and their children are three: Anna A., Elizabeth and James N. Crocker. 



Montgomery, Charles H. J., was born in Northumberland, Saratoga county, Jan- 
uary 29, 1842. He was educated in the public schools and learned the carpenter s 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 133 

trade, at which he worked until the outbreak of the Rebellion in 1861, when he en- 
listed in Company C, o£ the famous Seventy-seventh Regiment, N. Y. Vols., in 
which he served over two years. He re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventy- 
seventh Regiment and went to Hilton Head, South Carolina. He served with this 
regiment until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged. He now 
spent some time in traveling through the Western States and finally settled in Clin- 
ton City, Iowa, where he again worked at his trade and also became a contractor, 
building numerous dwelling houses and several factories. He returned to the east 
after some years on account of ill health and settled in Saratoga Springs. He 
followed his trade for a considerable period and in 1878 engaged in his present auc- 
tion and commission business. Mr. Montgomery is a member of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows; the Knights of Pythias and of McKean Post No. 498, G.A.R. 
He married, April 1. 1870, Jane H. Smith. 



Fassett, Col. John S. , was born in Troy, N. Y. Several of his ancestors were 
Revolutionary soldiers — his great-grandfather and five brothers having fought under 
General Stark at the battle of Bennington, and his father's father also was the com- 
mander of a Vermont company — therefore, it is not remarkable that when the war 
of the Rebellion broke out, he was found among the supporters of the Union. He 
had had some military experience as lieutenant of Co. G, Thirty-first Regiment 
N. G., and when the call for troops was issued, he assisted in raising Co. E of the 
Twenty-second N. Y. Vols., and was mustered in June C, 1861, commissioned by 
Governor Morgan as first lieutenant. He was severely wounded at the second bat- 
tle of Bull Run while acting as adjutant. When he recovered from his wound — the 
Twenty-second Regiment having been mustered out in the mean time — he raised a 
company for the Second Cavalry, and was mustered in as captain on September 3, 
1863, and in December of that year was promoted to major by Governor Fenton. He 
was mustered out in 1865 and received the commission of brevet lieutenant-colonel 
" for gallant and meritorious services." Colonel Fassett has continued his interest 
in military affairs since the war, giving much service in organizing the Saratoga Cit- 
izens' Corps and serving as its captain for five years from 1877 to 1882. He is 
commander of Post Wheeler, G. A. R., and is always prominent at reunions. He 
married Emma Martin of Glens Falls. 



Richards, Stephen H., was born in Norwalk, Conn., a son of Lewis and Alniira 
(Waterbury) Richards, natives of Connecticut, and has resided in Saratoga Springs 
since 1854. He was fir.st employed as bookkeeper for W. J. Hendnck, after which 
he was for eight years bookkeeper and teller in the old bank of Saratoga Springs; 
later paymaster on the Adirondack Railroad for three years, and cashier of the 
Commercial National Bank for eleven years. For a number of years subsequent he 
was engaged in the coal business in Saratoga Springs. Mr. Richards married, first. 
Emma Phillips, who died leaving one son, Walter Richards, manager of the Hotel 
Lincoln, New York city; his .second wife was Ada F. Brockway, and his present wife 
was Annie K. O'Donnell; they have one daughter, Myra Richards. 



Freeman, Nelson G., was born in the town of Malta, this county, a son of Benja- 



134 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

niin and Elizabeth (Dennison) Freeman. On both the paternal and maternal sides 
he descends from colonial stock, his mother being a lineal descendant of Major Den- 
nison of Revolutionary fame. Benjamin Freeman, his father, owned and conducted 
the first hotel at Sheepshead Bay, and was also a large owner of real estate sur- 
rounding the bay, which is said to have been named from the fact that he had the 
sign of his hotel painted with a picture of a sheep's head. He removed from Sheeps- 
head Bay to Malta in the early forties and is still living at the advanced age of 
eighty-three years. The subject of this notice was educated in the public schools 
and began to prepare himself for the profession of electrical engineering. In 1886 
he was appointed superintendent of the fire alarm system of the village of Saratoga 
Springs, a position in which he served one year. In 1888 he formed a copartnership 
with George W. Putnam for the conduct of a music and stationery business. Sub- 
sequently he acquired his partner's interest and has ever since conducted the busi- 
ness alone, being now located at No. 352 Broadway. Mr. Freeman is a member of 
Saratoga Lodge No. 15, I.O.O.F. He married, in 1890, Miss Nellie M. Allen, 
daughter of Silas G. and Laura M, (Adams) Allen of Saratoga Springs. 



Carpenter, William P., was born at Glens Falls, Warren county, N. Y., May 13, 
1843. a son of William and Ruth (Brown) Carpenter, and was educated at the schools 
of his native place and Sanford's Ridge, coming to Saratoga Springs in 1864, when 
he was twenty-one years of age. He has resided here ever since and has been one 
of the successful business men of the place for the past third of a century. He en- 
gaged in the express and hauling business at first, but subsequently branched out 
into the coal business, forming the firm of Carpenter & Taylor, which continued un- 
til the spring of 1898, when Mr. Carpenter disposed of his interest. He now conducts 
a storage warehouse with fire-proof compartments. Mr. Carpenter is a j^rominent 
Mason, having passed the degree of Knight Templar and the order of the Mystic 
Shrine; he is also a member of both the siiliordinate lodge and the encampment in 
Odd Fellowship, and a member of the Knights of Pythias. Mr. Carpenter married 
Mary L. Edwards of Utica, September 7, 1870, and they have an adopted daughter, 
Delia Chapman, wife of Elmer J. Taylor of Saratoga Springs. The Carpenters are 
one of the oldest American families, their progenitor having come to this country 
early in the seventeenth century. Mr. Carpenter's ancestors were residents of New 
York and there William B. Carpenter was born in 1802 but removed to Glens Falls 
while quite young. Later he removed to Sanford's Ridge where he died January 31, 
1854. He was a wagon maker by trade. 



Swan, William E.,M. D., post-office Saratoga Springs, was born at Albion, Orleans 
county, N. Y., September 13, 1866, and received his literary education in the public 
schools of Saratoga Springs and at Yates Academy. He entered the office of Dr. Grant 
as a medical student in 1886, and in 1887 began his studies m the College of Physi- 
cians and Surgeons, New York city, from which he was graduated in the class of 
1890. In the same year he returned to Saratoga; was associated with Dr. Graut for 
one year, and subsequently opened an office for himself at No. 24 Woodlawn avenue, 
where he continued until 1895, gaining a lucrative practice. In January, 1890, Dr. 
Swan went to Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, and began a course of post- 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 135 

graduate work. In the spring of 1896 he was appointed to the position of Assistant 
Resident Gynaecologist and served under Prof. Howard A. Kelly until July, 1897, 
when he returned to Saratoga and resumed the practice of his profession during the 
summer. In October, 1897, Dr. Swan sailed to Germany and spent the winter in 
special studies at Munich, giving particular attention to surgery and the diseases of 
women, under Professors Winekle and Klein. He afterwards visited the various 
clinics of Vienna, Berlin and Leipsic, and spent two months under Professor Leopold 
at Dresden. While in Germany he spent considerable time traveling, visiting Carls- 
bad and making a careful study of the therapeutic uses of the water in that celebrated 
resort. He returned to Saratoga Springs in July, 1898, and resumed the practice of 
his profession, devoting much of his time to the special practice of surgery. Dr. 
Swan is a member of the New York State Medical Association ; Alumni of the Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons; Johns Hopkins Hospital Graduate Club; Albany 
Medical Society; and the Medical Society of Saratoga Springs. 



Wing, D. E., proprietor of "The Davardo," Saratoga Springs, is one of the most 
experienced hotel men in this village of splendid caravansaries. He has been con- 
nected with prominent hotels for twenty-one years, such as the Clarendon and Com- 
mercial in Saratoga Springs; Hotel Warren at Warrensburg; the Stevens at Burl- 
ington, and others. He was associated for' several years with the Roselles of the 
"Arlington" at Fort William Henry. In the spring of 1898 he purchased the " Ken- 
more" at Saratoga Springs, and conducts it in a manner that places it at once among 
the best houses of the place, under the name of " The Davardo." "The Davardo" 
has 150 large rooms, well lighted and ventilated and of perfect sanitary condition. 
It is convenient to all the leading springs and has a large piazza space. Mr. Wing 
is a descendant of Abraham Wing, who settled at Glens Falls; it was called Wing's 
Falls at first, but Abraham Wing, who was a tory, changed the name to Glens Falls 
to please his friend Colonel Glenn, and history records that the colonel showed his 
appreciation of this generosity by opening a bottle of wine. 



Totten, Thomas J., was born at Saratoga Springs, June 26, 1853, a son of Joseph 
and Ann (Burns) Totten. Joseph Totten is of Scotch-Irish descent and came to 
America at fifteen years of age. His wife died in 1855. Thomas J. was educated in 
the public schools of his native place and at the Brothers' School, Albany, N. V. 
lie commenced to learn the trade of finishing currier, but disliking it tried the car- 
penter's trade, which he also discarded to learn the business of florist, which accorded 
with his tastes and in which he has become the leader in Saratoga county. He be- 
gan with W. C. Wilson of New York city, and after spending some months there re- 
turned to Saratoga Springs and started in the florist business for himself in a modest 
way in 1874. The following year he formed a partnership with Charles Ludwig, 
who shortly afterward sold out to John Schafer and the firm of Totten & Schafer ex- 
isted for ten years, doing business in both Saratoga Springs and Ballston. In 1885 
they dissolved partnership, Mr. Totten taking the .Saratoga part of the business, 
which he has since increased to very large proportions, his many greenhouses cover- 
ing 60,000 square feet of ground and he has an attractive emporium on Broadway. 
Mr. Totten is a prominent Mason, being a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter and 



136 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Commandery, has served as trustee of the village for two terms, and is a member of the 
board of health, having served in this capacity for three consecutive years. In 1880 
Mr. Totten married Helen Hamill; they have two children: Thomas J. Totten, jr., 
and Daisy Belle. 



Swanick, Arthur A., M. D., was born at Saratoga Springs, September 10. 1S()9. 
and was educated in the University of New York, from which he graduated with the 
degree of A. B. in 1889 and the degree of M. D. in 1893. He spent seven months in 
hospital work at Bellevue and then returned to Saratoga Springs and was associated 
with Dr. C. S. Grant for two years. In 1895 he opened an office of his own and has 
since been developing a steadily increasing practice and buildings high reputation. 
Dr. Swanick is a member of the New York State Medical Society and the American 
Medical Association, also of the Knights of Columbus and the C. B. L. He is a 
Democrat m politics and has been health officer of the village. His parents were 
Arthur and Catherine Swanick. The family has lived in Saratoga Springs for sixty 
years. 



Lawrence, Franklin W. , manager of the Excelsior Spring, was born in Morristown, 
Pa., June 12, 1860, a son of Henry and Caroline (Whitall) Lawrence. He may be 
numbered among the leading business men of Saratoga county. 



McKay, Alexander, was born in the city of Glasgow, Scotland, in 1838, a son of 
John and Janette (Brown) McKay. He was educated in his native city and came to 
America in 1869, settling in Providence, R. I. He is an expert mechanic and was 
for twelve years master mechanic in the establishment of Green & Sons, Providence, 
R. I. He came to Saratoga Springs in 1888 and opened a grocery store, which he 
conducted until 1896, when he retired from active business. Mr. McKay is a prom- 
inent member of the Odd Fellows, lodge No. 1.5. September 23, 1857, he married 
Miss Jenkins, and they had si.\ sons, and one daughter who is married and resides in 
Mexico. His sons are Alexander, William, Duncan, Thomas, Matthew and James. 



Davis, Howard W. , was born in Bolton, on Lake George, September 23, 1841. He 
has been engaged in farming and the lumber and timber business for many years, 
and in the latter nearly all bis life. He has dealt quite largely in timber and lumber 
from Vermont and all the northern country. He married Harriet Norton, ado])ted 
daughter of Dr. Reynolds, and they have three children, Addie. Mary and William. 
His parents, John and Jane (Waters) Davis, are both living at the ages of eighty-six 
and seventy-nine respectively. His grandparents, Ichabod and Lydia Davis, were 
early settlers and encountered all the difficulties and experiences of life in a new- 
country. John Davis was once a large boat owner on Lake George. A curious item 
in the history of this family is that Mr. Davis, his father, mother, grandmother and 
himself were all born in the month of September. 



Lighdc, John, one of the leading provision dealer of Saratoga Springs, is a native 
of Germany, born in Bavaria, March 28, 1853. His father was a well-to-do farmer 
and in his earlier years he worked on the farm and attended school, acquiring a good 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 137 

education. When but fourteen years old he began to learn the butcher's trade and 
has followed this occupation all his life. lie came to this country in 1871 and settled 
first in New York city, where he remained a short time and later worked at his trade 
in Oswego and Albany. In 1872 he came to Saratoga Springs and in 1876 began a 
provision business, locating at the intersection of Clark and White streets. Later he 
removed to No. 41 Lake avenue, where he conducted a store for over twenty years. 
He removed to his present location in the spring of 1808. Mr. Lighdc has been a 
useful and respected citizen of Saratoga Springs and enjoys the entire confidence of 
the business community. He married in 1883. 



Kmen, Ferdinand, was born in Bohemia, Austria, May 30, 1854, a son of Joseph 
and Anna Kmen. He learned the tailor's trade in Vienna, and in 1882 came to 
America, settling in Saratoga Springs the following year. In 1891 he embarked in 
business for himself and enjoys the reputation of being one of the leading tailors of 
this county. He is a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity and of the Royal 
Arcanum. Mr. Kmen married Barbara 'Vrana, who died in September, 1898. They 
had six children, five of whom survive: Bessie, Bertha, Frederick, Fannie, Henry. 



Chapman. John. — To the observant traveler who notes down in memory's pages 
the many beautiful scenes, the evidences of thrift and enterprise, there is no better 
illustration than is oflfered by a short visit to the beautiful home of John Chapman, 
situated in the southern part of the town of Northumberland, on the middle road be- 
tween Grangerville and Bacon Hill. The farm consists of over 135 acres in the 
highest state of cultivation; a fine dwelling, admirably situated among shade trees, 
adds a charm to the well kept premises, with fine barns and sheds, dairy house and 
orchards, proclaims John Chapman was born a farmer and not made, as is the com- 
mon e.xpression. The exact date when this model husbandman was ushered into 
the world was January 17, 1823. He is the son of Samuel Chapman, a native of 
Connecticut, and Sarah Hartwell Chapman, his wife, both deceased. His grand- 
father, Samuel Chapman, was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, was captured 
at the battle of White Plains and conveyed a prisoner aboard a British ship, where 
he endured the tortures of a long imprisonment, subsisting mostly on potatoes, and 
the hardship he received so affected his health that he died a tew months after being 
set at liberty, a victim to the cruelty practiced by the British on Americans who fell 
into their hands. Of Mr. Chapman's three brothers, Francis was a merchant in 
Schuylerville, and is now deceased; Samuel was a graduate of Union College and 
became a druggist in Philadelphia, but now resides in Maryland. Henry died a 
few months after receiving his degree from Union College. Of his five sisters, three 
are living, Mary, wife of John Baker of Kansas City, Mo. ; Sarah, widow of Asa 
Thompson of Minneapolis, Minn., and Rliza Ann of Benton Harbor. Mich., wife of 
Dr. Albert Burger. In politics Mr. Chapman is a Republican, and held the office of town 
town clerk in 1856-57. In 1852 he married Antoinette Marshall, and they had six 
children: Charles M. of Schuylerville, John H. of Minneapolis, Minn., Samuel, who 
conducts the farm; Eliza A., who resides at home; Sarah, wife of Myron Coleman 
of Troy, and Mary, wife of Charles McRea of Granville. Among the many features 
of Mr. Chapman's model farm, conspicuous is his fine herd of cows. His dairy is 



138 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

complete, a cream separator and other improvements being marked features. The 
butter made at Mr. Chapman's dairy finds a ready sale among the best families of 
Saratoga Springs at top prices. The whole place is a tribute to the energy, thrift 
and foresight of one who knows how to do and does it. 



Valentine, George C. , was born on what is known as the Valentine homestead, 
which is located in the southeastern part of the town of Charlton, April 30, 1847, a 
son of Isaac Henry and Eupharae (Brown) Valentine, who had seven sons, six now 
living: Isaac H., Thomas B., Frederic, George C, William A. and Walter E. George 
C. was educated in the common schools of Charlton and when about eight years of 
age his father died. He then assisted in the work on the farm until lie was twenty- 
two years of age, when he started out in life for himself as a farmer, locating on the 
old homestead, of which he purchased a part and later purchased the whole farm. 
In 1895 he sold his farm to John S. Hawley, for the Charlton Industrial Farm School, 
of which he is one of the directors. In 1879 Mr. Valentine married Mary Elizabeth, 
daughter of William and Mary Wheeler; they had four children: Clark W. and 
Frank K. (both deceased), Bessie and George C, jr. Mr. Valentine has been active 
in town and county affairs, supervisor of the town of Charlton seven years, and is at 
present (1898) supervisor of the town of Ballston. He was the first master of the 
Charlton Grange, which was the first lodge of the kind organized in the county. Mr. 
Valentine is a member of the Episcopal church of Charlton, of which he has been 
treasurer for twenty one years, also vestryman. He was president of the State Cider 
and Vinegar Manufacturers' Association for two years. He now resides at Burnt 
Hills in the town of Ballston. 



Muldowney. Edward J., son of Hugh and Margaret (Welsh) Muldowney, was born 
in the town of Greenfield, Saratoga county. May 10, 1863. When twelve years of 
age he moved to Saratoga Springs with his mother, his father having died before he 
was two years of age, and when twenty-three years of age he went to the town of 
Malta, where he now resides on a splendid farm not far from Ballston Spa. Besides 
managing the farm he conducts a milk route in Saratoga Springs. Mr. Muldowney 
lias three sisters and two brothers: Cecelia, Theresa, Julia, James and Peter. 



Allen, William II., was born in the township of Malta, Saratoga county, N. Y., 
April 19, 1850, educated in the public schools and was a farmer until he came to Me- 
chanicville in 1889, when he formed a copartnership with George H. Flagler in the 
hardware trade, continuing it three years under the name of Flagler & Allen, 
when the company was then dissolved by mutual consent. He then secured 
Leonard E. Sheffer as a partner under the firm name of Allen & Sheffer, which firm 
still exist.s. Mr. Allen held the office of collector in the township of Malta: was trus- 
tee of the village in 1895 and 189G, and in 1898 was elected president of the village 
of Mechanicville. March 9, 1881, he married Isabella Bidwell, and they have one 
son, Wesley Bidwell, who is in the employ of his father. Mr. Allen's father was 
born in the township of Galway in 1808, educated in the schools of his day and was 
a farmer by occupation. He married Phoebe Van Namee, and came to Malta about 
the year 1840. They had nine children: Carrie P., Ellis O., Alfred W., Antoinette, 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 139 

Everett W., William H., Julia A., Oscar E. and Emma K. Mr. Allen died in 1894 
and his wife in 1888. Mrs. Allen's people were represented in the Revolutionary 
war in this country, one of whom was a captain. Mr. and Mrs. Allen are members 
of the M. E. church: he is one of the trustees. 



Bush, Edgar J., sr., was born in Albany county, N. Y., July 1, 1858, and moved 
to Greene county in 18()2 with his parents, where he was educated in the public 
schools and was a farmer until he attained the age of twenty-one. He learned the 
carpenter's trade and followed it nearly si.K years. He was foreman and machinist 
in the Crosby Shirt Company nearly six years and in 1893 engaged in the livery and 
express business. Through industry, integrity and careful management by himself 
and wife, he has made and is doing a successful business. September ^8, 1881, he 
married Emma R. Uyer, and they have one son, Edgar J., jr. Mr. Bush's father, 
JedediahT., was born in Albany county, N. Y., August 7, 1817. was educated in the 
schools of his day and followed the honorable occupation of farming. He married 
twice, first to Marion St. John of his native county and they had six children : Fan- 
nie, Marietta, Theresa, Eudora, Helen and Edgar J. (as above). Mrs. Bush died in 
ISfil, and for his second wife he married Maria Tinklepaugh, and they had two 
daughters: Laura and Rose. Mr. Bush died in 1893, and his widow survives now in 
1898. Mrs. Bush's father, William J. Dyer, was born in West Troy (now Watervliet), 
Albany county, N. Y. , January 3, 1821, educated in the common schools and from 
the age of seventeen was always a lumberman. He married Nancy H. Wicks of 
Fort Hunter, Montgomery county, N. Y., and they had eight children: Lucinda, 
Emma R., Elanore N., Charles B., Libbie B., William E. and Willard J. (twins) 
and Royal B. Mr. Dyer died January 30, 1898, and his widow is now living in 1898. 
The family attend the M. E. church; in his politica'l choice he is a thorough inde- 
pendent. 

Lee, Wellington, was born in the township of Stillwater, October 23, 18G4, ed- 
ucated in the district schools and Mechanicville Academy. He has always been en- 
gaged in the meat business and is now conducting a first-class meat and variety 
market with great success, October 28, 1897, he married Nellie M. Fulmer of Wash- 
ington State. Mr. Lee's father, James Lee, was born at Fort Ann, Washington 
county, N. Y., July 9, 1824, educated in the schools of his day and is a wholesale 
butcher. October 14, 1846, he married Arvilla Wilsey of Dresden, Washington 
coujity, and they had ten children: Stephen, Emmitt, Russell, Ida, Ivena, Emma J., 
James, jr., Wellington (as above), Charles and Francis. Mr. Lee's grandfather, 
Russell Lee, was born at the old home in Washington county, N. Y. , in 1773. He 
married Lydia Adams of his native place and they had thirteen children. Mr. James 
Lee and wife are members of the Baptist church. Wellington Lee in his political 
choice is a thorough Republican. The ancestry of the Lees is English and Mr. Lee's 
wife is of German origin. 



Woodin, Elmer E., was born in the township of Halfmoon, Octobers, 1865, ed- 
ucated in the public schools and has always followed the honorable occupation of 
farming, to which he has now added fruit growing. October 7, 1888, he married 
Dora J. Wager of Clifton Park, and they have two daughters: Elma M. and Alta P. 



140 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Mr. Woodin's father, An.son B. Woodiu, was born at Crescent in the township of 
Halfmoou, in 1838, educated in the common schools and by occupation a farmer. 
He married Elizabeth Whyland, and they had three children: Leonard, Elmer E. 
(as above), and Pearl M. Both father and mother are living at this date, 1898. Mrs. 
Woodin's father, Frank Wager, was born in Brunswick, N. Y. , in 183G, educated in 
the schools of that day and was a farmer. He married twice, first, to Elizabeth 
Brevost, and they had four children: Dora J. (as above), Henry E., Laura E., and 
Oscar F. Mrs. Wager died in 1871. and for his second wife Mr. Wager married 
Julia Brevost and they had two children: Ralph E. and Ethel A. Mr. and Mrs. 
Wager are both living. 



Wood worth, Herbert J., was born at Ketchum's Corners, township of Stillwater, 
May 38, 1847, and educated in the common schools and Stillwater Academy. He 
enlisted twice, in the 7th U. S. Cavalry and the 4th Heavy Artillery at Delaware and 
was honorably discharged bv special order in 1866. He has been deputy United 
States marshal fourteen years and deputy sheriff twenty-five years. July 2, 186G, he 
married Emma L. Fisk . and they have two sons: Leon H., and Francis F. Leon 
H. is a member of the 2d N. Y. Provisional Volunteer Infantry; May 18, 1898, was 
promoted to Colonel Hardin's staff as chief bugler and now in June, 1898, is located 
in Georgia. Mr. Woodworth's father, Taylor Woodworth, was born in Northumber- 
land in 1826, educated in the schools of his day and was a farmer. He married An- 
toinette, daughter of Dr. Reuben H. Hart of Ketchum's Corners, and they had two 
sons: Herbert J. and Byron C. Both father and mother are living at this date, 1898. 
Dr. Reuben H. Hart was born at the old home at Ketchum's Corners in the year 1798. 
He studied medicine and became a practicing physician. He married Betsey Wood- 
w-orth and they had five children: Woodworth, Antoinette, Dehalse. Catherine and 
Hiland. Mr. Woodworth is a charter member of Ondawa Lodge No. 820 of this 
place, F. & A. M., up to and including the Oriental Temple of Troy, N. Y. In his 
political choice he is a thorough Republican. 

Vandenburgh, William E.. was born in Ballston Spa, Saratoga county, N. Y., 
June 3, 1853, educated in the common schools and learned the millwright, carpenter, 
sash and blind and machinist trades, and is now master mechanic at the Duncan 
Paper Company, giving satisfaction to the concern. April 2, 1874, he married Esther 
A. Lamb of Lockport, N. Y., and they have two children: Arthur R. and Edith A. 
Mr. Vandenburgh came to Mechanicville in 1886 and his family in 1889. His father. 
Nelson R. Vandenburgh, was born at the old home in Ballston Spa in 1831, and was 
a contractor and builder by occupation. He married twice, first, to Nancy E. Fisher, 
and they had four children: William E. (as above), Emma E., Carrie L. and Frank 
R. Mrs. Vandenburgh died August 19, 1873, and for his second wife he married 
Mrs. Margaret Van Evern. and they had one daughter, Wreatha. Mr. Vandenburgh 
died January 7, 1892, and his widow survives at this date, 1898. Mrs. Vandenburgh s 
father, Joshua Lamb, was born in Middleburg, Vt., November 9, 1828; July 6, 1851, 
he married Sarah A. Shook, who was born in Newfane, Niagara county, N. Y. , in 
1832, and they had two daughters, Esther A. and Mary C. Mr. Lamb died October 
6, 1880, and his wife December 12, 1858. William E. Vandenburgh is a member of 
the Home Lodge of Ballston Spa No. 135, A. O. U. W., and in politics is a Democrat. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 141 

Rowley, James W., was born in the township of Malta, Saratoga county. N. Y., 
October 38, 1859, and educated in the public schools and Mechanicville Academy. 
He has always been a farmer. He was elected highway commissioner in 1803 for a 
term of three years and is now serving his second terra ; he has also served his towns- 
people as collector one year. January 14, 1883, he married Minnie A. Noonan of 
this township, and they had two children; Harriet, who died in infancy and Arthur 
J., who was born September 13, 1893. Mr. Rowley's father, George Rowley, was 
born in Malta, in June, 1834, educated in the schools of his day, was a grocery mer- 
chant in Saratoga for a time and is now a farmer. He has married twice, first, Har- 
riet Hall of the township of Stillwater, and they had two children: Adella and James 
W. (as above). Mrs. Rowley died in 1863, and for his second wife Mr. Rowley mar- 
ried Mrs. Sarah Van Denburgh, and they have one daughter, M. Elvisa. Mr. Row- 
ley's grandfather, Isaac Rowley, was born in the town of Malta about 1808; he mar- 
ried Amanda Gilbert of Saratoga, N. Y. , and died about 1878, and his widow in 
1884. Mr. Rowley in bis political choice is a staunch Republican. 



Robinson, Willett A., was born at Ketchum's Corners, Saratoga county, N. Y., 
December 6, 1800, educated in the district schools, and was a farmer until he at- 
tained the age of twenty years, when he became a business man at Wayville, deal- 
ing in general merchandise, coal, grain and straw for thirteen years; he was also 
postmaster there seven years. On May 31, 1894, he came to Mechanicville and 
formed a partnership with Frank G. Ferris, under the firm name of Robinson & 
Ferris, dealing in building and mason supplies at wholesale and retail; also paper 
makers' supplies, in chemical lime, in D. & H. and D. L. & W. coal, in wood and 
wholesale dealers for Mechanicville, Round Lake and Stillwater in oil for the Stand- 
ark Oil Co. and shippers of baled hay and straw. February 9, 1881, he married 
Mary A. Simpson. Mr. Robinson's father, Andrew J. Robinson, was born at Leon- 
ardsville, Madison county, N. Y. , in 1834, educated in the schools of that day and 
came to this county when a young man and was a merchant. He married Lucy A. 
Perkins, and they had two children: Willett A. (as above), and Annie, now Mrs. 
William B. McComber. Mr. Robinson died when Willett A. was three years old. 
Mrs. Robinson married a second time, H. B. Sayles of Saratoga, and they had one 
daughter, Lillian, now Mrs. F. H. Ferris. Mrs. Sayles died May 9, 1896. Mr. Rob- 
inson is a member of On-da-wa Lodge of Mechanicville, No. 830, F. &• A. M. They 
are members of the M. E. church. In politics he is a Republican. 



Orcutt, Adelbert B., was born in Glens Falls, N. Y., November 1, 18.56, was edu- 
cated in the common schools in various places and in the Mechanicville Academy. 
He has been engaged in the manufacturing of sash, doors and blinds with his father, 
Jonas B., since 1883, under the iirm name of J. B. Orcutt & Son; Adelbert B. is the 
traveling salesman and purchaser for the firm. February 18, 1889, he married Ella 
C. Best, and they have three daughters and one son: Hazel, Pauline, Harlan T. and 
Gladys. Mr. Orcutt's father, Jonas B., was born in Vermont, September 35, 1836, 
and came with his mother to this State when he was eleven years old and was edu- 
cated in the district schools. He gained a knowledge of the sash, door and blind 
business and is engaged in the business at this date (1898) as referred above. In 



143 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

January, 1S5C, he married Lucina Smith of Gleus Falls, and they had four children; 
Adelbert B., Amanda, Alice C. and Charles W. Mrs. Orcutt's father, Peter K. Best, 
was born in Columbia county, N. Y., in 1823. He was well educated and followed 
the honorable occupation of farming. He married Jane E. Esselstyne, and they had 
eleven children: Jeremiah, Jacob E. , Charlotte L. , Charles A., Mary V., Jane E., 
Edward, Harriet L., Ella C, William M. and Lydia N. Mr. Best died February 20, 
1878, and his widow June 29, 1887. Mr. Orcutt is one of the directors of the Manu- 
facturers' National Bank and worked earnestly for its organization. He is a member 
of On-da-wa Lodge of Mechanicville, No. 820, F. &• A. M., and is one of its charter 
members; a member of Montgomery Chapter of Stillwater, No. 237. R. A. M., and 
of Bloss Council, Troy, R. & S. M. The family are members of the M. E. church. 
In his political choice Mr. Orcutt is a staunch Republican. 



Lyttle, Joseph E., was born in Mechanicville, N. Y. , September 4, 1857, educated 
in the public schools and since he attained liis majority has been in the hotel and 
restaurant business and is now doing a good business in the Park Avenue Opera 
House cafe. In April, 1887, he married Minnie A. McMann, and they had two chil- 
dren; Nicholas, who died in infancy, and Joseph E., jr. Mr. Lyttle's father, Nicho- 
las Lyttle, was born in county Antrim, north of Ireland, in 1806, and was educated 
in their schools. He came to the United States at the age of twenty and enlisted as 
a soldier in the Mexican war and won an honorable discharge. He married Mar- 
garet Dunn of New York cit)', and came to Mechanicville; they had ten children: 
Charles, who died in infancy; John; Charles 2d, who also is dead; Nicholas E., 
James, Mary J., Joseph E. (as above), Annie, Margaret and Kate. Mr. Lyttle died 
in 1886 and his wife in 1870. Joseph E. Lyttle and family are members of St. Paul's 
Roman Catholic church. In his political choice he is a staunch Democrat; tlic an- 
cestry of family is Scotch, and Scotch-Irish. 



Nash, Charles W., was born in Cuba, N. Y., March 22, 1861, educated in the pub- 
lic schools and Cuba Academy. In early life he learned the printer's trade and at 
the age of nineteen established the Daily News, which he continued two years and 
then sold it. At the age of twenty-one he went to Bolivar and started the Sunday 
Leader and sold it one year later on account of the collapse of the oil interests in 
that field. He then entered the employ of the Buffalo, New York and Philadelphia 
Railroad Co. as cashier for several years with headquarters at Rochester. May o, 
1884, he married Katharine E., daughter of E. E. Hufstader of Cuba, and they have 
one son, Robert C, who was born December 19, 1880. The family came to Mechan- 
icville in 1801, where he has been in the employ of the D. & H. Railroad Co. as 
freight agent ever since. His father, Malcolm L. , was born in Brandt, Canada, in 
1832, and came with his parents to Connecticut when a child. He marrried Caroline 
E., daughter of Dr. E. J. Reynolds, and they had two .sons: William W. and John 
C, who is a train dispatcher in Montana. Malcolm L. Nash is now a ranchman in 
Nebraska; he served in the .")th Cavalry, Co. E, N. Y. Vols., and was honorably dis- 
charged as first sergeant in 1863, by reason of surgeon's certificate of disability. 
Charles W. Nash is serving his second term as captain of William M. Searing Camp 
No. .'jl, S. of V. ; IS a member of On-da-wa Lodge No. 820, F. & A. M., and has been 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 143 

its secretary since its organization ; he is a member of Montgomery Cliapter of Still- 
water No. 347, R. A. M., and now in 1898 holds the office of high priest. 



Kelso, Thomas A., was born in Waterford, Saratoga county, N. Y., April 14, 1850, 
and educated in the common schools. In early life he was a marble cutter, also a 
musician and has owned and conducted the Westside Hotel the past thirteen years 
with success. August 16, 1876, he married Kate E. Brown of Waterford, N. Y.,.and 
they had five children; Norma M., Blanche (who died in infancy), Mina(who died at 
the age of seven years), Jo.seph C. (who died in infancy), and Ijeslie E., the oldest 
and youngest children now living. Mrs. Kelso died May 11, 1896. Mr. Kelso's 
father, Joseph C. , was born near Salem. Washington county, N. Y. , March 25, 1818, 
and came to Ballston, Saratoga county, with his parents at the age of eight years. 
He was educated in the schools of his day and followed the water and was in and 
out of Buffalo in 1836; he was also a railroad man and hotel keeper. He married 
Amy Young of the township of Malta, .Saratoga county, and they had four children: 
one boy died m infancy, Maria M., Truman A. and Norman W. Mr. and Mrs. 
Joseph C. Kelso are living at this date, 1898. Thomas A. Kelso's grandfather, 
Joseph Kelso, was born in 1777, and was captain in the war of 1812; his grandfather 
Young was all through the war also; and his great-grandfather, George Wiggms, 
was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 



King, Milford P., was born in Green Island, N. Y., October 19, 1855, and educated 
in the common schools; he has had a variety of occupations, farmer, weaver and 
paper maker. In 1888 he came to Mechanicville, where he is conducting a general 
grocery store. Mr. King's father, John O. King, was born in Lansingburgh, N. Y. , 
in 1826, educated in the district schools and by trade is an oil cloth printer and is 
now clerking for his son. In 1849 he married Esther E. Way, and they had eight 
children: John G., Mary E., Milford P., Phoebe J., Levi B., Ettie L., Margaret A., 
and Julia E. Phoebe J. died in 1880; Mrs. King died July 12, 1896, mourned by a 
husband and children. Mr. King's grandfather, Joseph King, was born in a log 
cabin on King's Island, now known as Peble's Island, situated between Van Scoike's 
Island and Waterford, in 1791, and died recently at the age of one hundred and six 
years and ten days. The Kings descended from two brothers, who were engineers 
in the early wars with the English. Mr. King is a member of the Presbyterian 
church and is one of the elders. 

Lape, John, was born in the township of Brunswick, Rensselaer county, N. Y., in 
1836, educated in the common schools and has always been a fanner. In 1863 he 
married Martha Strenk of Schaghticoke, and they have two children: Mary E. and 
Charles H. Mary E. married Leonard V. Wetsell of Halfmoon, and they have 
one daughter, Esther L. Charles H. married Josephine Clark, and they have two 
children: John Burton and Marion R. Mr. Lape's father, Henry Lape, was born in 
Columbia county, N. Y. , in September, 1809; educated in the schools of liis day and 
came with his parents to Rensselaer county when twelve years old. He married 
Mary Brewst, and they had seven children: George, Caroline, John, Christina, 
Sarah H., Emily and Adelaide. Henry Lape died .September 24, 1866, and his 
widow August 5, 1893. Mr. Lape in his political choice is a staunch Republican. 



144 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Hasbrouck. Georgie A. — Wilson B. Hasbrcrack was bom in Rensselaer county. N. 
Y., in the year 1S.54. edu::. "-.e common schools and Mechanicville Academy 

and is a farmer and bus:;: . by occupation. November 2-4. 1878. he married 

Georgie A. Best of Mechajiicviue. Mrs. Hasbrouck' s father. George Best, was bom 
in Doran. Conn., in 1S31, and came with his mother here when a boy. He was ed- 
ucated in the public schools and was a college graduate and a general merchant. He 
married Sarah Elmer of Mechanicville. and they had one daughter, Georgie A. He 
died in 18-51 and his widow in 1890. Mrs. Hasbrouck's grandfather, Phineas Cook, 
was '- — : ■- ^. ------ Mass., May 10. 1874. and located here in 1832; he was a 

Meth married Chloe Pease. He was one of the early settlers in 

Mecha-icville a-c c:ed Mav 26, 1861 



Hart, Madison W., was bom near Ketchum's Comers, Saratoga county, N. Y., 
January- 22, 1831, obtained his educatio;: mmon schools, and has always fol- 

lowed the honorable occupation of far:: :;e 17. 1856, he married Frances C. 

French of Lansingburgh. N. Y., and they have .>ae son. Frederick French, who is a 
reporter on the Chicago Times-Herald. Mrs. Hart's father, Hiram French, was 
bom in the State of Maine in 1808, and came to this State when a boj-. He married 
Fannie Distermell of Lansingburgh and they had two children: Frances C. (as 
above) and Louisa, now Mrs. Nicholson of Boston. Mr. and Mrs. Hart are members 
of the Episcopal church. In his political choice he holds to the principles of the 
Gold Democracy; the ancestry of the family is English. 



Hart. Andrew J., was bom in the township of Glen, Montgomery- county, N. Y. , 
September 8, 1832, and came with his parents to the town of Galway. Saratoga 
county, in 1833, where he was educated in the common schools. They came to 
Mechanicville and their hotel was located on North Main street on the site of the 
First National Bank, and finally to the present location of the Leland House, and the 
present homestead a half mile south of the village was purchased. Mr. Hart's father, 
James D. Hart, was - Saratoga Lake about 1803, educated in the schools of 

that time and was a :: - ^r and farmer. He married twice, first to Ann Wright, 

and they had one son. Madison. Mrs. Hart died and for his second wife he married 
Rosina Bush of Stillwater, and they had five children: Andrew J. (as above), Amy, 
Mary. James P. and John. Mrs. Hart died December 7, 1893, and Mr. Hart died 
March 31, 1879. Mr. Hart's grandfather, John Hart, was bom in Rhode Island: 
married and had seven children: Stephen, Reuben, Amy, James D., John, Alvin and 
Mary. Mr. Hart's great-grandfat'ner was Jeremiah Hart. Andrew J. Hart's brother, 
James P.. is a farmer residing with him on the homestead farm; he married Eliza- 
bei'n Hill of Saratoga. Mrs. Eiizabet'a Hart's father. Charles Hill, was born in Sar- 
atoga, N. Y. ; married Catherine Cadey, and they had five children: James, Adeline, 
Newton. Liceta and Elizabeth. Mr. Hill died in 18-58 and his widow in 1893. James 
D. Hill was a member of Rising Sun Lodge of Saratoga, No. 103. F. & A. M. James 
P. is a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 504, F. & A. M., also of Montgomery 
Chapter No. 2-57, R. A. M., Washington Commandery of Saratoga No. 33, K. T. 



Greene. John C, was bom in Mechanicville, N. Y., December 4, 1835, educated in 



PERSONAL REFERENXES. 145 

Stillwater Academy, at Babcock Institute at Ballston Spa, and Colgate University. 
He read law with Hughes & Northrup of Sandy Hill, was admitted to the bar in 1S5T, 
was justice of the peace in 1865 and 1S66, served as supervisor in 1867 and went to 
Troy to reside and practice his profession in 1868. He was candidate for county 
judge of Rensselaer county in 1871, elected district attornej- in 1873, and in 1878 was 
appointed first assistant United States attorney for the n ' ■ 'istrict of the State 
of New York. In 1896 he was a candidate on the Gold :c ticket for Con- 

gress from the Congress district. In 1882 he returned to ilc,.liaii;c\-ille where he has 
since resided. He was one of the organizers of the First National Bank of Mechanic- 
ville and was its president four years and is now in 1898 one of its directors. In 1858 
he married Mary M. Bartlett of Sandy Hill, and they have three children: Cather- 
ine. Albert B. and Belle. Albert B. is a civil engineer by profession and now holds 
the office of village engineer. He is a member of Montgomery Lodge No. .504, of 
Stillwater, F. & A. M ; Montgomery Chapter No. 257, R. A. M. Mr. Greene's 
father. Thomas C. Greene, was born in Rhode Island in 1792, educated there and 
was a general merchant. He came to this village to reside in 1828 and led a retired 
life. He married Catherine Greene of Florida, Montgomery- county, N. Y., and they 
had one son, John C. He is the sixth in descent from John Greene, who was a cap- 
tain in King Philip's war in 1679; sixth in descent from Caleb Carr. who was gov- 
ernor of Rhode Island in 1695 and died in office. He is sixth in descent from Captain 
^Vllliam Turner; Turner Falls of Massachusetts was named after him; and seventh 
in descent from Roger Williams, the iirst settler of Rhode Island. Mrs. Greene's 
father. Alvord Bartlett, was born in Coxsackie. N. \'., in 1798: he married Delight 
Lamb of Sandv Hill, and died in 1SS4: his widow in 1891. 



Ferris. Frank G. . was born in the township of Stillwater, March 7. 1860, educated 
in the schools of his town and finished at No. 4 Saratoga. His early lite was sf>ent 
on the farm and for a short time he had an oil route. In 1894 a copartnership was 
formed wi;h W. A. Robinson under the firm name of Robinson & Ferris, dealers in 
builder's and mason's supplies, both w'nolesale and retail ; also paper maker's supplies, 
in chemical lime, etc., in D. & H. and D. L. & W. coal, in wood, baled hay and straw 
and wholesale dealers for Mechanicville, Round Lake and Stillwater for the Standard 
Oil Co. January 18, 1SS3, he married Carrie Flagler of Stillwater, and they had two 
sons: David, who died in 1884; and Earl, who died in 1893. Mr. Ferris's father, 
Mark T. Ferris, was bom in the township of Stillwater, October 4, 1824, educated in 
the district schools and has had a variety of occupations ; he was a merchant, in the 
oil regions and a farmer. He married Anna Burns of Mechanicville, and they had 
three children: Frank G., Charles H. and Fred H. Mr. Ferris died Februar\- 21. 
1896, and his wife in 1890. Mrs. Ferris's father, Da\-id Flagler, was born in the 
township of Stillwater in 1835. and is one of the town's best farmers. He married 
Olive Rogers and they had two children: Carrie and William J., who is now a gro- 
cery merchant in Saratoga. Mr. Flagler is a man useful in settling estates, and was 
loan commissioner twenty years. Mr. Ferris is a member of On-da-wa Lodge of 
Mechanicville No. S20. F. & A. M. 



Ferris, Fred H., was born at Ketchum's Corner*. StiHwater N Y.. June 13. 1869. 
j 



148 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

educated in the district schools and Pultney Academy, Vt. In 1893 he became a 
partner with Bank D. Powers & Son of Lansingburgh at Melrose, N. Y., which 
company was known as the Ferris Seeder Co. In 1894 they organized the Grant 
Ferris Co., with a paid capital of $.")0,0()0. On November 30, 1894, the factory was 
entirely destroyed by fire and early in the spring of 1895 they erected a factory on 
the site of the old Tilly factory on Green Island, where they manufacture steam 
threshing machines, agricultural implements, heaters, ranges, stoves and fireplace 
goods. Mr. Ferris has invented many usefel articles and had them patented. He 
has been manager and treasurer of the company since its first organization. He 
owns the old homestead farm at Ketchum's Corners. October 10, 1890. he married 
Lillian Sayles of Stillwater, and they have one daughter, Marion S. Mrs. Ferris's 
father, Henry V. Sayles, was born in the township of Stillwater, August 9, 1826, 
educated in the schools of that day and is one of the old California forty-niners. He 
married twice, first, to Sylvia Rice and they had two children, now deceased. For 
his second wife Mr. Sayles married Lucy Robinson and they had one daughter, 
Lillian. Mrs. Sayles died May 7, 1896. Mrs. Ferris's great-grandfather and great- 
granduncle were soldiers in the Revolutionary war. Mr. Ferris is a member of On-da- 
wa Lodge No. 820, F. & A. M., and Montgomery Chapter of Stillwater, No. 257, R. A. 
M. Mr. and Mrs. Ferris are members of the M. E. church of Mechanicville. Mrs. 
Ferris is a member of the Royal O. E. S. In his political choice Mr. Ferris is Inde- 
pendent. 



Ensign, John Wesley, was born in Cambridge, Washington county, N. Y., Febru- 
ary 13, 1814, educated in the schools of his day and first studied medicine, but his 
father needing his help at home he became a contractor and builder. He married 
twice, first, to Mary McClelland of Greenwich, and they had three children, all now 
deceased. For his second wife he married Harriet Miller of Hamp.shire county, 
Mass., and they had four children: Charles W., Lewis W., Mary S. and Harriet A. 
Charles W. is a physician practicing in Rotterdam, N. Y. He married twice, first, 
to lone Van Zant and they had one son, Lewis V., who has studied civil engineer- 
ing. Mrs. Ensign died August 10, 1884, and for his second wife, in 1896, he married 
Anna Chapman of West Troy, N. Y. , and they have one daughter, Orrianna. 
Lewis W. practices law in the city of New York. He married Minerva Hicks, and 
they have four children: Elsie M., Charles K., Wesley N. and Lewis. Mary S. is a 
teacher, having a collegiate education, and Harriet A,, who is a college graduate, is 
now assistant principal of the high school at Milford, Conn. Mr. Ensign's father, 
Datus Ensign, was born in Westfield, Mass., October 16, 1783, and came to this 
State when a young man ; he was a Methodist clergyman for many years. He mar- 
ried Mary Winegar, who was born in Sharon, Conn., February 34, 1788, and they 
had twelve children, four now living: John W. (as above), Angelinc (wife of the 
distinguished Bishop John P. Newman), Caroline (wife of Sturgis Lockwood), and 
Emily (wife of Andrew J. Smith). Datus Ensign died July 1. 1853, and his widow 
March 5, 1803. John W. Ensign has been president of the village and is now secre- 
tary of the board of health and registrar of vital statistics. Mr. Ensign has resided 
here forty-nine years; he, with Mr. Lewis E. Smith, were the originators and pro- 
moters of the Mechanicville Academy, which has been a flourishing institution. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 147 

Ferry, Edward E., was born in Otego, Otsego county, N. Y., January 29. 1848, 
educated in the public schools and began his railway career at his own home. From 
there he went to Oneonta and from there to Sidney, then came to this division, alter- 
nating winters in Rutland and summers in Saratoga three years. He then became 
telegraph operator and station agent at Hoosick Falls four years and was with the 
Boston, Hoosac Tunnel and Western, which was absorbed by the Fitchburg, and 
they sent him to Mechanicville in September, 1886, to occupy the responsible posi- 
tion of local freight agent at this point, having charge of many men and its immense 
busmess. October 17, 1883, he married Adell Patrick of his native county and they 
have two children: John H. and L. Leslie. Mr. Ferry's father, Abner Ferry, was 
born in Otsego county, N. Y., in 1803, educated in the schools of his day and was a 
farmer. He married Hannah Smith of his native place and they had eight children ; 
Charlotte, Jefferson, Chauncey, Celestia, Henry, Cassius, Edward E. (as above) and 
Sarah (twins). Abner Ferry died in 1879 and his widow in 1886. Mrs. Ferry's 
father, John J. Patrick, was born in Morris, Otsego county, N. Y., in 1831, educated 
in the schools of his day and was a farmer. He married Ruth Haynes of his native 
place and they had two daughters, Adell and Ida M. Mrs. Patrick died iu January, 
1890, and Mr. Patrick still survives in 1898. The family are members of the Episco- 
pal church. In his political choice Mr. Ferry is a thorough Republican. 



Cunningham, Peter, was boru in the town of Milton, Saratoga county, N. Y., Sep- 
tember 10. 1854, educated in the common and select schools and followed mechanical 
pursuits for some years. In 189.5 J. & P. Cunningham embarked in the shoddy and 
dye business under the firm name of Cunningham Bros., in Stillwater, which con- 
tinued until the plant was destroyed by fire two years later. On January 1, 1898, 
the firm began business in Mechanicville, under the style of Withers & Cunningham 
Bros. Mr. Cunningham has married twice, first in 1875 to Anna M. Moore and they 
had four children; Elizabeth, Mary, William II. and Peter. Mrs. Cunningham died 
January 19, 1891, and on April 19, 1892, he married Mary Grady of Waterford, and 
they have two children: Marguerite and Francis. The family are members of St. 
Paul's Roman Catholic Church of Mechanicville and in his political choice Mr. Cun- 
ningham is a thorough Democrat. His father, Peter Cunningham, was born about 
the year 1826, and came from New York to the town of Milton when a young man. 
He worked for Chauncey Kilmer in the paper mills for twenty-two years; he mar- 
ried Mary Brennon and they had eleven children, four now living: Catherine, 
James, Peter and John. Catherine married Patrick Higgins. Mr. Cunningham 
died in 1890 and his wife in 1888. 



Best, Lewis H., was born on the homestead on which he resides, in the township 
of Halfmoon, Saratoga county, N. Y., April 3, 1864. He was educated in the com- 
mon schools and Mechanicville Academy and has always followed the honorable 
occupation of farming. October 19, 1893, he married Bertha E., daughter of John 
K. and Deborah. Smith, and they have cue daughter, Hazel D. Mr. Best's father, 
Tristram C, was born in Columbia county, N. Y., in 1830, and came to this home- 
stead when a young man. He too was a farmer and wool dealer ; he married twice, 
first, to Harriet Lamb, and they had three children; Emma, George F. and Lewis 



148 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

H. Mrs. Best died in 1865 and Mr. Best married Elizabeth Lamb, sister of his first 
wife. Mr. Best died April 20, 1890, and his widow December 20. 1879. Mrs. Best's 
father, John K., Smith, was born in the township of Halfmoon, May 4, 1857, and ed- 
ucated in Jonesville and MechanicviUe academies. He married Deborah Vischer, 
and they had one daughter, Bertha E. Mrs. Smith died August 8, 1887; Mr. Smith 
survives at this date, 1898. 



Conley, Walter P., was born in the town of Ballston, January 1, 1845, a son of 
Enneas and Ellen (Barrett) Conley, and was educated in the common schools of the 
town of Ballston, also a private academy at Ballston Spa. When sixteen years of 
age he started in life for himself and moved to the western wilds of the Rocky 
Mountain country, settling in Colorado, where he spent four years as a gold miner; 
from there he moved to Mexico, where he remained seven years and returned to 
Colorado and followed stock raising and raining. In 1886 he returned to the town 
of Milton and purchased the Sheriff Powell farm, where he now resides. In 1873 
Mr. Conley married Mina Will, and their children are Harry. Lawrence, Nellie, 
Millie and Warren, and four deceased. Mr. Conley is actively interested in educa- 
tional work, also in town and county affairs. He is an enthusiastic Mason and Odd 
Fellow; was master of Kit Carson Lodge No. 325, of Elizabethtown, N. M., and 
officiated as worshipful master at the grave of Kit Carson in the town of Toas, 
N. M. At the present time he is a member of Franklyn Lodge No. 90 of Ballston 
Spa and Warren Chapter and K. T. of Saratoga; he is a member of Denver I.O. 
O.F., No. 4, and has held all the offices in the lodge. 



Cobb, William, was born in Roxbury, Mass., June 16, 1855, a son of Charles C. 
and Margaret (Webb) Cobb. When sixteen years of age he started in life for him- 
self as a clerk in a clothing store in Newark, N. J., and later started to learn the hat 
maker's trade. When twenty-five years old he came to the town of MUton and 
worked in the tannery at currying for about eleven years, then moved to West Mil- 
ton and followed general painting. On account of an accident in 1895, he was 
obliged to retire from active life until 1897, since which time he has been manufac- 
turing the Rogers complete truck. Mr. Cobb is interested in town and county 
affairs and has held some of the appointive offices. He is a member of the I.O.O. F. 
of Middlegrove, N. Y. 



Gorman, Michael H., was born on the farm where he now resides, Octolier 18, 
1866, a son of John O. and Mary (Carroll) Gorman, natives of Ireland, and was ed- 
ucated in the common schools; he assisted his father on the farm summers and 
attended school winters. When fourteen years of age he started out in life for him- 
self as a farm laborer, and two years later, when his father died, he took charge of 
his estate, which business he has carried on since. He has a stone quarry which he 
operates, which has furnished material for some of the principal buildings of Sara- 
toga and Ballston. lie also has a milk route in Saratoga, and sells about one hun- 
dred and seventy-five quarts of milk per day. When twenty-two-years of age Mr. 
Gorman married Catherine, daughter of Daniel and Alice Tracy, and their children 
are John, Alice, Theresa and Margaret. He and his family are members of the 
Catholic church of Saratoga. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 149 

Kavanaugh, William, was born in the town of Milton, March 14, 1828, a sou of 
Barnard and Margaret (Brophy) Kavanaugh. Barnard Kavanaugh came to this 
country from Ireland about 1844, and after living here three years married his wife. 
When he first came to America he worked as a laborer and in 18(ir) purchased the 
farm where William now lives. He was a public spirited man and interested in 
school and church work. William was educated in the common schools of the town 
of Milton, assisting his father on the farm summers and attending school winters. 
After his father retired from active life William took charge of his affairs and after 
his father's death he purchased the old homestead. March 31, 1891, Mr. Kavanaugh 
married Julia Moran, and they had three children: Barnard, John Moran and Will- 
iam, jr. Mr. Kavanaugh has been active in town and county affairs, has served as 
highway commissioner and is also active in the school interest of his di.strict. 



Lewis, Henry M., was born in the town of Greenfield, February 6, 1844. a son of 
Benjamin and Harriet (Mastin) Lewis, and was educated in the common schools of 
the town of Greenfield. When he was eight years of age he started in life for him- 
self as a farm laborer, for which he received his board and clothes; his wages were 
afterwards increased to four and six dollars per month. He followed farming until 
thirty-three years of age, when he started in the lumber business, which with farm- 
ing he has followed to the present time. He was engaged in the lumber business 
first in Providence, where he remained for about nine years when he moved to the 
town of Galway. He was there for about eight years when the high water destroyed 
h:s business and he sold out to Henry Mastin and moved to Windom, Minn., where 
he remained four years, then returned to the town of Milton and settled near West 
Milton, where he has since lived. Mr. Lewis is a strictly self-made man, having de- 
pended upon his own resources since he was eight years of age; he is public spirited 
and interested in the affairs of his town and county. He has been justice of the 
peace in the town of Galway, and at Windom, Minn. In August, 1862, he enlisted 
in Co. H, One Hundred and Fifty-third N. Y. Vols., and served three years. In 
1879 Mr. Lewis married Mary H., daughter of Smith Drake, and they have one son, 
Reuben H. 



Atkinson, James W., was born in Auburn, Placer county, California, September 
18, 1838, and came to Waterford with his parents in 1864. He was educated in the 
public schools, Eastman's Business College of Poughkeepsie, and was graduated 
from the Albany Law School in 1888. He was admitted to the bar in 1889 and has 
practiced since then with success. In 1886 he was elected excise corami.ssioner, serv- 
ing three years; in 1888 he was elected justice of the peace and has served continu- 
ously since January 1, 1889; he was also elected school trustee in 1889 and is still 
serving in that capacity; also clerk of the board of education. He was elected jus- 
tice of sessions in 1890, serving one year. In April, 1897, Mr. Atkinson married 
Bessie N. McDonald, In his political choice he is a Republican. Mr. Atkinson's 
father, John Atkinson, was born in the north of Ireland in 1804, and came to the 
United States in 1840, locating in Waterford, N. Y. He married twice, first, to Mrs. 
Elizabeth Van Dekar, widow of Richard Van Dekar, and they had three daughters; 
Elizabeth, Charlotte and Matilda; his second wife was Mary McArau, and they had 



150 OUR COUNTY ANI3 ITS PEOPLE. 

five children: John H., James W., Thomas P., Mary M. and Sarali J. John H. was 
a noted attorney-at-law here and in New York city and died March 2G, 1.S90. Thomas 
P. died in 1883 and Mr. Atliinson died February 16, 18TG, his widow July 3G, 1898. 



Curtis, Mrs. Amanda. — The late William Curtis was born in Waterford, N. Y., 
March 17, 1823, educated in the public schools and was a barber by trade, conducting 
a shop until his death. He enlisted in Co. A, 22d Infantry, N. Y. S. Vols., and dur- 
ing his term of service was ruptured. He was honorably discharged at the expira- 
tion of his term of service. December 22, 1847, he married Amanda Borst, and they 
had si.\ children; William, George E. , Eugene B., Mitchell, Mary G. and Frederick. 
William married Sarah Flinton, and they had three children: Henry, Gabriel and 
William. Eugene B. married Harriet Whipple of Waterford, and they have one 
son, Eugene. Frederick married Catherine Haley of Cohoes, and they have two 
children: Frederick W. and Mary G. Mr. Curtis died April 23, 1894. He was a 
member of Bolton Post, Lansingburgh, N. Y., G. A. R. Mrs. Curtis's father, Peter 
Borst, was born in Schoharie; he married Gertrude Van Dyke and they had seven 
children: Eliza, Catherine, Amanda, Jane, Charlotte, Margaret and William. Mr. 
Borst died young; his widow died aliout the j-ear 1873. 



Hay, George, was born in Waterford, N. Y., October 11, 1873, educated in the 
high school of Waterford and has had several methods of supporting himself and 
mother. For the past five years he has been a newsdealer, dealing and handling the 
leading journals, magazines and light literature, candy and cigars, with success. 
He is a hustler and does business on business prmciples. His father, James Hay, 
was born in Scotland, February 4, 1835, and came with his parents to the United 
States at the age of nine years. January 29, 1871, he married Emma Lake, and 
they had one son, George, as above. Mr. Hay died January 21, 1894; his widow 
survives at this date, 1898. Mrs. Hay's father, Huelett Lake, was born in Pough- 
keepsie in 1823, followed the sea as a sailor for twenty years and afterward on the 
Hudson River for the balance of his working life as mate, captain and pilot. He 
married Elizabeth Palmer, and they had (ive children: Emma (as above), Ida, Jen- 
nie, Annie and Edward. Mr. George Hay is a member of Clinton Lodge of Water- 
ford, No. 140, F. & A. M., Waterford Chapter No. 1G9, R. A. M. ; the family have 
been Masons for five generations. 



Harriman, Joseph, was born in Devonshire, England, October 13, 1839, educated 
in their schools and learned the machinist's trade. He came to the United States in 
1857, locating in Waterford, Saratoga county, N. Y. May 2, 1801, he enlisted in Co. 
A, 22d Infantry, N. Y. Vols. ; was wounded in the left arm in the second battle of 
Bull Run, which caused amputation, and was honorably discharged at Albany, N. 
Y., April 11, 1863, with the rank of corporal. In June, 18G3, he was appointed post- 
master by President Lincoln, which office he held until 1885; in 1891 he was ap- 
jiointed by President Harrison on the watch force of the treasury department at 
Washington, D. C, and was removed by President Cleveland in 1893. May 15, 1861, 
Mr. Harriman married Sarah Whitham, and they had eight children : Frank H., Mary 
E., Nellie L., Charles L., James E., Joseph W., Arthur E., and Annie M. Mary E. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 151 

married Amasa N. Gregg, and they have one daughter, Elsie H. Charles N. mar- 
ried Cora N. Becker; he died February 30, 1897. James E. married Gertrude Sei- 
bels, and they have two daughters: Jessie M., and Charlotte. Mrs. Harriman's 
father, Jeremiah Whithara, was born in Yorkshire, England; he married twice, sec- 
ond to Elizabeth Driver, and they had five children: Sarah (as above), Mary, Hannah, 
Ellen and John. He died in 1855 in Cohoes, and his widow September 23, ISGO. 
Mr. Harrinian is serving his third term as commander of General Philip H. Sheridan 
Post No. 6;50, G. A. R. He is a member of Maple Valley Lodge No. 437, I. O. O. F., 
and has gone through all the chairs. In his political choice he is a staunch Republican. 



McGreivey, John C, was born at Mount Hope, Washington county, N. Y., Decem- 
ber ;i, 1850. His parents moved to Glens Falls in the year 1857, where he was ed- 
ucated in the public schools. He was a newsboy for some time, and has conducted a 
saloon on Broadway in Waterford twenty-si.x years in the building he now owns and 
the adjoining building with success. In March, 1874, he married Catherine Powers 
of Glens Falls, and they have had seven children: M. Olive, J. Blanche, Lillian (who 
died at the age of one year), Frank H., E. Rolland, J. Lothair and Ruth (who died 
in her third year). Mr. McGreivey's father, Frank McGreivey, was born in County 
Down, Ireland, and came to Quebec, Canada, when a young man and soon after 
came to the United States. He married Mary Ann Crowe, and they had ten children : 
Mary, John C, Jennie, Elmer, James, Frank, Margaret, Annie, Edward and Rose. 
Elmer, James, Mary, Margaret and Rose are dead. Frank McGreivey and wife are 
still living at this date, 1898. 



Marble, Mrs. Mary C. — The late George N. Marble was born in Troy, N. Y., May 
G, 1848, educated in the common schools and was a farmer. July 31, 1863, he enlisted 
in Co. A, 7th Heavy Artillery, N. Y. Vols., was promoted corporal June 16, 1865, was 
shot in the head and honorably discharged and returned to Albany. November 17, 
1866, he married Mary C. Young, and they had eight children: one died in infancy, 
Clifford E., William, Edgar, Samuel J., Clara, Isaiah, and Emily J., who died at the 
age of seventeen. Clifford E. married Mary Berry; William married Frances Judge 
and they have two children: Elizabeth and Susan; Edgar married Mary Roach, and 
they have two sons; George N. and Eliezer; Clara married James Quigley; and 
.Samuel J. resides at home. Mr. Marble was a member of Philip H. Sheridan Post 
No. 630, G. A. R. He died August 6, 1891. Mrs. Marble's father, Christopher Young, 
was born about the year 1804; married Rebecca Becker, and they had six children: 
Mary C. (as above), Sarah M., Lena A , David A., George H., and Albert. Mr. 
Young died in 1891 ; his widow survives at this date, 1898. Mrs. Marble's grandfather 
Becker was a soldier in the war of 1812. 

Slade, Benjamin J., was born in Green Island. Albany county, N. Y., March 37, 
1837. When he was four years old his parents moved three miles north of Water- 
ford, on the Mechanicville road, where he obtained his education in district and 
boarding .schools. In early life he was a farmer, but he has been engaged in the 
coal and lumber trade at Waterford since 1867. In 1888 he formed a copartnership 
with his son, George D. , under the firm name of B. J. Slade & Son, which continued 



152 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

two years, when Mr. Slade retired, and George D. is conducting the business with 
success. Mr. Slade has married twice, first, in 1865, to Elizabeth Flagler, of Clifton 
Park, Saratoga county, and they had three children, two sons and a daughter: Em- 
mitt F., George D. and Edith J. Emmitt F. married Anna Ladd, of Waterford, 
X. Y., and they had one son, Benjamin J. ; they reside in Cohoes, N. Y. Mrs. Slade 
died in 1871. For his second wife, in 1873, he married Mrs. Mary Brooks, born 
Althouse, of Clifton Park, N. V. Mr. Blade's father, Benjamin, was born in the 
town of Hoosick, Rensselaer county, in the year 1806, and was one of the represen- 
tative farmers of his time. He married Angeline Babcock, of his native county, and 
they have seven living children, as follows: Sarah A., Benjamin A., as above, James 
F., John D., Anna M. and Fayette E. Mr. Slade died in 1870 and his widow in 
1879. Mr. Slade's grandfather, Joseph Slade, was born in Rhode Island in 1763. 
April 20, 1788, he married Elsie Sherman. Mr. Slade's great-grandfatber w-as Philip 
Slade and his great-grandmother was Mary. They date back to 1763. William 
Slade of this family was born in Wales, England, and settled in Rhode Island, in 
the year IfitM. The Babcocks of this family came from England to the United States 
in the year 1623, and settled in Rhode Island in the year 1636. Mr. Slade is a mem- 
ber of Clinton Lodge No. 140, of Waterford, N. \'., F. & A. M. The family is iden- 
tified with the Baptist church. In his political choice he is a staunch Republican. 
He has been trustee of the village seven years; and the ancestry of the family is 
English and Dutch. 



Smith, Solomon P., was born at Clifton Park, Saratoga county, N. Y., August 13, 
1830, and was educated in the district schools. At the age of thirteen, on account of 
the death of his father, he went to reside with his sister, in the State of Illinois, 
where he learned the millwright trade. He remained there until he was twenty 
years old, when he went to Peru, in that State, and returned to his native place in 
18.54, and is an inventor in the line of engineering ventilation. September 6, 1856, 
he married Sarah M. Sickler, of the town of Halfraoon, and they had five children: 
Fred P., Katherine S., Myron P., Charles F. and Harry J. Fred P. married Hattie 
A. Husted of Waterford, and they have three sons; Wood J., Harry and Clarence S. 
Katherine S. married Fred C. Potter of West Troy, and they have three daughters: 
Laura C, Helen and Edith. Myron P. was a ranch owner in Te.^as and died at the 
age of thirty-four. Charles F. died in his third year and Harry J. in his ninth. Mr. 
Smith organized a company of soldiers in the late war. His papers, under the 
President's first call for 75,000 men for the State of New York, were No. 1, authoriz- 
ing him to organize a company, which was accomplished, of the best material, for 
three years, and were mustered in the United States service in August, 1862, as 
Company H of the 115th Infantry, N. Y. State Volunteers, with Mr. Smith as cap- 
tain. August 16, 1864, at New Market Hill, near Richmond, Va., in that battle, 
every commissioned officer in the regiment was killed or wounded, including Cap- 
tain Smith, who lost his left arm on that occasion. lie was honorably discharged, 
with the rank of captain. January 16, 1865, he was made lieutenant-colonel in 
the .State militia and .subsequently advanced to colonel. His father, Richard P., 
was born at the old home in Saratoga county, about the year 1802. He was edu- 
cated in the schools of his day, and followed the honorable occupation of farming. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 153 

He married Sarah, daughter of Abijah Peck, of his native place, and they had seven 
children: Abijah, Mindwell, Nathan, Eliza, Richard P., Samuel and Solomon P., as 
above. Mr. Smith died m 1842 and his widow in 1843. Mr. Solomon P. Smith is a 
member of I^afayette Post No. 40, New York city, G. A. R., Dept. of New York. 
Mr. and Mrs. Smith are members of the Baptist church of Lansingburgh. and he is 
one of the deacons and a trustee of the church. His grandfather was a minute man 
in Connecticut in the Revolutionary war, and both of his uncles, Solomon and John 
Peck, were soldiers in the war of 1812. In his political choice he is a staunch Re- 
publican. The ancestry on the paternal side is Dutch, and on the maternal side 
English, of New England origin. 



Sulzman. Charles A., was born in Baden, Germany, January l.'j, 1841, educated 
there and came to the United States with his parents in 18."/4. He has built up a coal 
and ice trade in Waterford which he has conducted eleven years; he is also the in- 
ventor of several u.seful articles. He and his son, Frank M., manufactured the Star 
Wagon Jack, which is one of his inventions and patents, and he is now a machinist, 
which trade he still follows. In April, 1869, he married Rosa Roe, and they had two 
sons: John F., w?ho has hotel and theatrical interests m New York city; and Frank 
M., bookkeeper for the Ormsby Knitting Co. of Waterford. Mr. Sulzraan's father, 
Ferdinand Sulzman, was born in Germany in 1809, educated there and was a cus- 
toms officer. He married Mary A. Bendel, and they had four children: Charles A., 
Bartholomew J., Agnes and Louisa, all deceased except Charles A. Charles A. 
Sulzman is a member of Clinton Lodge of Waterford No. 140, F. & A. M., Waterford 
Chapter No. 169, R. A. M., and in politics is a Republican. 



Wilkins, Edward A., was born in Waterford, N. Y., October 21, 1853, was educated 
in the public schools and by a private tutor. He was in the State employ in a posi- 
tion on the canal for two years and for twenty years has been in the grocery business 
and for the past seven years has conducted a meat market therewith. By industry 
and square dealing he has been successful. December 23, 1875, he married Sarah 
Poole of Rome, N. Y., and they have six children: Mary E., E. Adeline, Edward A., 
jr., Sarah L., Henry E., and William A. Mr. Wilkms's father, Edward A., was 
born in Waterford in 1826, educated in the schools of that day and followed sailing 
on the Hudson River many years. He married Eliza Lyons, born in 1833, and they 
had three children: Edward A., Erastus C, and Mary E. Mr. Wilkins died Decem- 
ber 31, 1898, his widow survives at this date, 1898. Mrs. Wilkins's father, Alfred 
Poole, was born in Germany, September 30, 1825; married Adeline Snyder, born in 
1824, and after their marriage came to the United States, locating near Rome, N. Y. 
They had three children: C. Henry, Sarah and Emma J. Edward A. Wilkins is a 
member of Clinton Lodge of Waterford, No. 140, F. & A. M., and of the Royal Ar- 
canum. 



Wood, Jacob D., was born in Lansingburgh. N. Y., August 22, 1847, educated in 
the public schools and in Fort Edward Institute. He was a commercial salesman 
three years and since has followed the honorable occupation of farming. January 19, 
1876, he married Marietta M. Manville and they have three children: Edith G., a 



ir.4 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

teacher in the public schools; George H., a bookkeeper in the Rob Roy Knitting 
Mills at Troy, N. Y. ; and Chester J., a student at school. Mr. Wood has served his 
townspeople as highway commissioner several terms. His father, Hiram Wood, was 
born in Dutchess county, N. Y. , September 16, 1812, and when twelve years old 
moved to Lansingburgh with his people. He became a resident of Halfmoon, De- 
cember iil, 1830; he married Mary A. De Freest of Greenbush, and they had three 
children: De Freest, Abram I., and Jacob D. Hiram Wood died October 10, 188-t, 
and his wife November 22, 18()9. Mrs. Wood's father, George H. Manville, was born 
in North Greenbush, November 9, 1848; he married Eleanor De Freest and they had 
two children. Mr. Wood is a member of Clinton Lodge No. 140, F. & A. M., and of 
Waterford Chapter No. 169, R. A. M. 

Young, David, was born in the town of Malta, Saratoga county, N. Y., July 18, 
1826, attended the public schools and has been a canal groceryman, a boat owner 
and lock tender all told in occupations named eight years; the balance of his life he 
has been a successful farmer. September 19, 1847, he married Mary L. Whaleti. 
Mr. Young's father, Emanuel A. Young, was born iu the Mohawk Valley about the 
year 1789; he married Mary Wiggins, and they had eight children: Isaac, George, 
Minerva, Amy, William, Cornelia, James and David. George was a soldier in the 
late war and died there. Mr. Young died in 1862 and his widow in Mav, 1872. Mrs. 
Young's father, Clark Whalen. was born in Cambridge in 1803; he married Rulh 
Davenport and they had nine children: Edward, William, Mary L. , Amanda, 
James, Rebecca. Catherine, Lydia and Sarah. He died in ISS.") and his wife in 1878. 
David Young is a member of Clinton Lodge of Waterford No. 140 F.& A.M. 



Boyce, Fred, was born in Wilton, February 2, 1869, a son of Ebenezer and Ruth 
(Comstock) Boyce, he a native of Rensselaer county, and she of Corinth. Ebenezer 
Boyce was a section boss for some years and was in the Hudson River Pulp and 
Paper mill about five years and was killed by going over the dam in 1880; his widow 
is now living in Corinth. Fred Boyce was educated in Corinth and in 1884 began to 
work for the Hudson River Pulp & Paper Co., and for nine years has held the po- 
sition of machine tender. In politics he is a Republican and was trustee of the vil- 
lage. He is a member of St. John's Lodge No. 33, F. & A. M., St. John's Chapter 
No. 103, R.A.M., Cryptic Council and Washington Commandery; also of Corinth 
Lodge No. 174, I.CJ.O.F. October 15, 1890, he married Fannie Eggleston, and they 
have two children: Edith R., born August 38, 1891, and Willard C, born March 6. 
1893. The father of Ruth Comstock was Gideon Comstock, who was school commis- 
sioner and a man of education. His father was Adam Comstock, a member of assem- 
bly and State senator, and many years judge of the Common Pleas of Saratoga 
county. His father was John Comstock, whose wife, Mary Williams, was a direct 
descendant of Roger Williams. 



Burnham, W. J., was born in South Corinth, January 24, 1856, a son of Harvey, 
and grandson of Jonathan Burnham, who was among the early settlers of tlie town. 
Harvey P.urnham was a miller at Lu/.erne, N. Y. ; in politics a Republican, and has 
been justice of the peace. He married Lydia Coloney and they had two sons and 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 155 

one (laughter. W. J. Hurnluim was educated in the schools of I^uzerne, also at 
Glens Falls Academy. He began life by learning the drug trade and was in the mill 
at Luzerne with his father until May 10, 1881, when he came to Corinth and bought 
the Corinth grist mills. He is very successful and carries on a business of about 
eight thousand dollars yearly. June 2;), 1880, he married Ida Thomas, and they had 
nine children : Bertha, Harry, Clara, George, (irace, Kate, Courtland, Lydia and 
Mattie. Mr. Burnham is a member of Corinth Lodge No. 174, I.O.O.F. In politics 
he is a Republican and has been treasurer of the village and in 1898 was elected 
trustee. 



Burnham, John H., was born in South Corinth, October 14, 1856, a son of David 
T. and grandson of Jonathan Burnham mentioned in this work. David T. was 
born in Corinth in August, 1831, and has spent his life here. He is a millwright by 
trade and was a miller for .some years; he now lives a retired life. In politics he is 
Republican and has twice been collector and justice of the peace some years. He is 
a Free Mason, a member of the I.O.O.F. and of the G.A.R. He served in the late 
war two and a half years and was second lieutenant wlien discharged. He married 
Harriet S. Holsapple, who died in 1897. John H. Burnham has worked for the Hud- 
son River Pulp & Paper Co, for about sixteen years and for seven years has been 
a steam fitter. He is a member of Corinthian Tent, K.O.T.M., No. 375, and Ad- 
irondack Council No. 88, O.U.A.M. January 23, 1888, Mr. Burnham married Carrie 
White of Corinth, and they had two children: M. Lillian and Laura M. 



De Loriea, Joseph, was born in Montreal, Canada, May 12, 184:>, a sou of Edward 
and Margaret (Dugall) De Loriea. Edward was a native of France and came to 
Canada in an early day. His wife was of French descent, and they had eight chil- 
dren. Joseph was reared in Canada on the farm and educated in the common 
schools. He learned the blacksmith's trade and at the age of twenty-one came to 
the village of Corinth and worked for Mr. Holmes two years, then started for him- 
self and has been very successful, being the leading blacksmith of the town. For 
eight years Mr. De Loriea followed farming and in 1895 again began working at 
his trade, building a new shop, and in 1897 built a nice residence. He owns four 
houses and lots besides his residence and has made his own property. July 16, 1S71, 
he married Clarmeda Sturdevan, l)orn March 3, 1841. Mr. De Loriea is a Republi- 
can in politics; is a member of Corinth Lodge No. 174, I. O, O. F., having been a 
member for twenty-nine years. He and his wife attend and support the M. E. 
church. 



Lawler. J. G. , was born in Wayne county. Pa., September 3, 1863, was reared on 
a farm and educated in the common schools. He began life as a tanner and had a 
successful business. In 1887 became to North Creek and superintended the tannery 
there for three years; then came to Corinth and bought the Central House and has 
since been proprietor. He married Mary Curley, and they had nine children : Mary, 
Matthew, William. Thomas, Lawrence, Martin, Leonard, Joseph and Catherine. 
Mr. Lawler is a liberal Democrat in politics, and a member of Talehatchie Lodge 
No. 329, I. O. R. M. Mr. Lawler owns the Central House, Opera House, a large 
dwelling and three stores which he rents. 



156 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

McDonald. John, was born in Warren county. N. Y. , September 13, 1833, a son of 
Alexander McDonald, a native of Warren county, and whose father came from Scot- 
land to Warren county in a very early day. Alexander was a farmer, lumberman 
and saw mill man ; in politics a Democrat and was highway commissioner and asses- 
sor. He died in 1886, aged eighty-six years; his wife died in 1889 aged eighty-.six 
years. John was educated in the common schools and began life as a lumberman. 
He went west for a short time and returned to New York State and engaged in farm- 
ing and lumbering. In 1887 he came to the village of Corinth and engaged in buy- 
ing and selling property and also engaged in the livery business, and has had the 
leading business for .some years. In politics he is a Democrat and was supervisor 
of his town one term and assessor twelve years. He married Mary A. Putnam, and 
they had five children: Minnie, Maggie, Jennie, Addie, and John, jr., who is en- 
gaged in mercantile business in Corinth. 



Mason, George H., & Son. — This firm is composed of George H. Mason, sr. and 
George H. Mason, jr. George H. Mason, sr. , was born in Bellows Falls, Vt, Janu- 
ary 23, 1840. a son of Orrin Mason and Maria Cunningham, his wife. Mr. Mason 
had a very limited education ; his father was very poor and at his father's death the 
support of the family rested upon him. He followed farming for some years, worked 
for the railroad a .short time and was agent at Corinth for twelve years, and for 
twenty-two years ran an omnibus, also carried freight for the village since the rail- 
road was built. He has been very successful and owns twenty-four acres in the cor- 
poration with seven houses on it. He has been quite an extensive land owner and 
now has about three hundred acres. He has bought and sold wool for many years 
and at present handles all kinds of agricultural implements. Mr. Mason is also an 
extensive coal dealer and keeps a large wood yard to supply the village of Corinth ; 
during the winter he handles from $1,000 to $1,500 worth of coal per month and about 
$3,000 worth of wood per year. He married Angeline Millis and they have four 
children: Maud L., George H., jr., John C. and Harold B. At the present time 
(1898) Mr. Mason is placing the telephone system throughout the village of Corinth. 
John C. Mason is married and lives in Corinth. In politics Mr. Mason is a Repub- 
lican and has been highway commissioner four years. He is a member of Corinth 
Lodge No. 174, 1. O. O. F. George H., jr., who is in business with his father, is a 
member of the Red Men; I. O. O. F. , and is also a Free Mason. 



Richards, Salmon M., was born in Glens Falls, January 29, 1856, a son of Marquis 
D., and grandson of Edmond B. Richards, who built the American Hotel and was 
proprietor for some years, being one of the first settlers of that town. He was born 
at Hartford, Conn., March 11, 1788, and died at Glens Falls, September 11, 1876. 
Marquis E. , father of Salmon, was engaged in boating lumber and lime from Glens 
Falls to Troy for seventeen years, then engaged in the grain and lumber business 
at Glens Falls, vvhich he followed successfully for eight years. He is an exten- 
sive land owner in the town of Moreau. In politics he is a Democrat and has held 
some town offices. In 1849 he married Mary A. Briggs, who died that same year, 
and he married again, Mary E. Wing, and they had two sons and five daughters. 
Salmon M. was educated in Fort Edward Institute and began the study of law with 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 157 

Judge Isaac J. Davis in 1878 and was admitted to the bar in 1881. He began his 
practice in Glens Falls and in 1888 came to Corinth, where he has since been the 
leading attorney of the place. He is a member of Senate Lodge, F. & A. M. In 
1887 he married Mary E. Ferris. Mr. Richards is one of the well-to-do men of the 
village of Corinth and owns considerable property. 



Smith, James V., was born in Greenfield. April 25, 1819, a son of John and Saman- 
tha Hewitt Smith, natives of Connecticut, who came with their parents to Green- 
field at an early date. James V. was reared in Greenfield Center and here educated. 
He is a farmer and has sixty acres where he lives and one hundred acres of wood 
land; he also has followed lumbering and has furnished a good deal of the lumber 
for the M. E. church. April 11, 1844, he married Ruth Allard, and they had five 
children: C. Elizabeth, Ellen A., Albert M., Lee A. and Sagie D. Mr. Smith was 
first a Whig, but has been a Republican since the organization of the party; he 
has been very active in politics, serving as town clerk and justice twenty-five years. 
He is a member of Greenfield Center Lodge No. 308, I. O. O. F. , and assisted in 
building the lodge. 



Dolan, Michael, was born in Rothmore, County Carlin, Ireland, in 1838, a son of 
John Dolan, who came to this country when Michael was ten years old, settling in 
the town of Oueensbury, Warren county, and died in Abington, 111., thirty years 
ago. John Dolan's family consisted of Martin, now a resident of St. Paul, Minn., 
Margaret, widow of Robert Riley, James and Lawrence. Michael Dolan came to 
Glens Falls forty years ago and for many years followed the life of a boatman on 
the Champlain canal, and later entered the employ of the Glens Falls Transporta- 
tion Co., where he still continues. In 1860 Mr. Dolan married Margaret Lyons of 
Glens Falls, and they had seven children, which as families go will compare favor- 
ably with any other family of its size in the country, both as regards the character 
and ability of its members. They are James, Lawrence J., John H., of Dolan 
Brothers, druggists of Glens Falls; Michael, of Dolan & Bellen, wholesale liquor 
dealers of Glens Falls; Abbie, wife of James Sullivan ; Catharine, a graduate of St. 
Mary's Academy, and Dr. Martin Dolan, who graduated from the Albany Medical 
College April 15. 1898. In politics Mr. Dolan has always been a Democrat and is 
followed politically by all his sons. 



Howe, William, was born in the town of Moreau, in 1839, a son of Peter Howe, 
who came to Moreau from Ballston Center in the early part of the present century. 
There were five children in Peter Howe's family, of which William was the young- 
est and is the sole survivor. His father's death occurring when he was only one 
year old, he was sent at an early age to reside with a relative of his mother's, John 
Buxton, at Bath, Steuben county, where he remained six years; deducting this time, 
the balance of his sixty-nine years have been spent in the vicinity of Glens Falls and 
in the town of Moreau. Mr. Howe's early education was of the kind that could be 
gleaned only in the winter months and at most was such as the sturdy, healthy 
country youths picked up in the district schools. His time, after reaching the age 
when every one was expected to work, was devoted to the maintenance of himself 



158 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

and to assist in the care of his widowed mother. In 1868 he married Melissa Bur- 
roughs, and they had one daughter, Ella, wife of Walter Jacoby of Glens Falls. 
Mrs. Howe died in 1898. Mr. Howe can boast of being one of the oldest residents 
of this section and can remember the time when Glens Falls was a small hamlet of 
less than a dozen homes. He is ably assisted in his store by his grandson, Charles 
Jacoby, who resides with him in his comfortable home just east of the store. In pol- 
itics Mr. Howe is a Republican and held the office of justice of the peace from 1875 
to 1895, a period of twenty years, to the satisfaction of all his fellow citizens. 



Stewart, John W., son of James and Isabella Stewart, was born in Ireland, Febru- 
ary 3, 1842, and on May 22, 1864, came to America during the height of the Civil 
war. He came direct to Glens Falls and for a time was engaged at various kmds of 
employment and learned the blacksmith's tjrade, at which he was employed at Sandy 
Hill for fifteen years, and when he returned to Glens Falls continued to work at his 
trade until 1S92, when he embarked in his present business, that of fire insurance, in 
which he commands a wide range of business as a fire underwriter in Saratoga and 
Warren counties. He represents a number of strong companies of which the Green- 
wich of New York, tlie American and Delaware of Philadelphia are among them. 
Five years after he landed Mr. Stewart sent to Ireland and brought over his parents, 
who resided with him at the time of their deaths; his father died in 1888 and his 
mother in 1893. In 1874 Mr. Stewart married Mary C. Northrup of Sandy Hill and 
they had three children, all deceased. In politics Mr. Stewart has always been a 
consistent Republican, and has served his party as delegate to district and county 
conventions. In 1890 he was elected justice of the peace for four years and re-elected 
for another four years, a position he still retains with honor and credit to himself; he 
was also town collector one term. He is practically a self-made man ; ever a hard 
worker, he has advanced steadily through the trade of blacksmith to his present 
position with a goodly share of self-respect, with the respect of his fellow citizens, as 
well as a sub.stantial portion of this world's goods as a reward of thrift, energy and 
perseverance. 



White, Seward J., M. D., son of James D. and Jennie (McClary) White, was born 
at South Berne, N. Y , in 1855, and received his education at the State Normal School 
and Cornell University. He studied medicine with Dr. A. 'Van Deer of Albany, at- 
tended the Albany Medical College and was graduated from there in the class of 
1880. He came directly to Glens Falls after graduating and opened an office for the 
practice of his profession, where he has since remained and where a large practice 
has been built up in Saratoga and Warren counties. In 1883 Dr. White married 
Flora E. Sweet, and they had three children, one now living, Gladys M., aged nine 
years. Politically Dr. White is a Republican ; for the past eighteen years he has 
been health officer of the town of Moreau. He is a member of the Warren and Sar- 
atoga county medical societies; Glens Falls Medical and Surgical societies; a di- 
rector of the Glens Falls Hospital; has been a member of the board of education for 
the past ten years and trustee of the village. 



Wood, Nelson O. , son of Isaac and Delilah (Baker) Wood, was born on his father's 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 159 

farm midway between Sandy Hill and Fort Edward, November 19, 1864. Of his 
father Mr, Wood remembers nothing, as he died a few months previous to his birth. 
He was an only child and carefully reared by his mother, who married again when 
he was eleven years of age. The common schools furnished the source of an education, 
and at the age of seventeen he started out in life for himself, working at farm labor 
and anything else he could find to do for three years. About this time he entered 
the employ of D. Peck & Co., grocers at Glens Falls, and remained in their employ 
for four years. He was a commercial traveler in the confectionery trade two years 
for Fred Carr of Greenbush. In company with C. W. Skym he purchased the gro- 
cery business of B. B. Duell, No. 86 Main street, and the two embarked in that line; 
on February 1, 1898, he purchased Mr. Skym's interest and moved to No. 71 Main 
street and has since conducted the business alone. In 1895 Mr. Wood married Ger- 
trude E. , daughter of Marvin B. Parks. Mrs. Wood's great-grandfather was Daniel 
Parks, one of the many heroes which the troublous times of the Revolution brought 
forth. Fort George, where the village of Caldwell now stands, was held by the Brit- 
ish ; young Parks went to Fort Edward and raised a company of volunteers and 
marched to Fort George, surprised the place and captured it without loss to the 
Americans, one of the many heroic acts which have come down to us through the 
history of that time. Politically Mr. Wood is a Democrat ; he has no ambition for 
political honors, preferring to look after the interests of his business than to the de- 
tails of politics. Mr. Wood is a member of Glens Falls Lodge No. 121, F. & A. M. 



Frasier, M. H., was born at Day, Saratoga county, N. Y . October 18, 1S17, a son 
of Lyman H. and Caroline (Kathan) Frasier, he a native of Connecticut, she a native 
of Da}', and a daughter of Luke Kathan. Lyman H. Frasier came to Day with his 
parents, Lorenzo and Martha (Darling) Frasier. He was a hotel keeper and farmer; 
in politics a Democrat and held minor town offices. He died in June, 1895. His 
widow is now living in Day. They had fourteen children, of whom twelve are now 
living. M. H. Frasier was educated in the common schools and engaged in hotel 
keeping which has been his principal occupation. He was for twenty years superin- 
tendent of the wooden ware works at Batchellerville, and on May 1, 1897, became 
proprietor of the Arlington Hotel at Hadley ; he also owns a farm of 150 acres and 
several houses and lots in the village and a hotel at Batchellerville. In politics he 
is a Djmocrat and was supervisor of Edinburgh two terms and collector and con- 
stable of that town. He is a member of Batchellerville Lodge, I. O. O. F., and Sac- 
andaga Chapter, R. A. M. In 1874 he married Cornelia Robinson, and they had 
eight children; Walter G., Matie, Bertha A., Cora, Fannie, Willie (deceased). M. H., 
jr., and Nelson. 



Townsend, Joel, was born m Warren county, N. Y., December 3, 1829. a son of 
Dennison and Esther (Parmenter) Townsend. His maternal grandfather, Isaiah 
Parmenter, came from Vermont very early and spent his days in Warren county. 
His father was a farmer, also spent a great deal of time manufacturing pump logs. 
He and his wife had twelve children, of whom eight now survive; he died in Hadley 
on the farm Joel now owns, February 13, 1880. Joel Townsend was educated in the 
common schools and followed farming, is also interested in the manufacture of lum- 



160 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

ber and carries on a business of about $3,000 yearly. On March 9, 1831, he married 
Catherine Steadman.and they had two children, one now living, Emily J., born 
March 3, 1854, and married Samuel CofJinger, and they have seven children: Delia 
M., Hulda S., Joel T.. Maria J., Myrtle M., Vermia B., and Abram, deceased. 



Glenn, Scott B., was born in Providence, November 6, 1872, a son of Allen S. and 
Mary (Burdick) Glenn. Allen S. Glenn was a native of Galway, born in 1840, a son 
of Jacob Glenn, one of the early settlers of that town. Allen S. was a prominent 
farmer of Ballston and for years conducted a milk route in that place. In politics he 
was a Democrat, and at one time was collector. He served three years in Co. E, 
77th N. Y. Vols., and was always known as a true soldier. He was a prominent 
Free Mason, and a member of the G. A. R. He died in Ballston in 188J, and his 
wife in 1886. Scott B. Glenn was educated at Ballston Center, but owing to the 
death of his parents his education was limited and he at an early age began to clerk 
for George H. West, an uncle, in Galway; later for A. W. Brown & Co., and for four 
years has been in the employ of H. R. Crouch. He was once a member of the Good 
Templars, and knows not the taste of strong drink. December 2o, 1893. he married 
Emma Brown and they have three children: Howard A,, Carrie A. and Raymonds. 
Mr. Glenn has alway.s been identified with the Democratic party, and although his 
party is largely in the minority he was easily elected supervisor of the town of Gal- 
way in 1898; his first political office being that of collector, being elected in 1893. 
Mr. Glenn's mother was a daughter of Peleg Burdick, who married Mary Clark, 
daughter of William Clark, one of the wealthiest men in the town of Providence, 
Saratoga county, N. Y., and held the office of supervisor in that town for about 
eighteen years. 



Ruback, John, was born in Germany, December 7, 1840, a son of Frederick Ruback 
and Mary Woodrick, his wife, both natives of Germany, and who came to America 
in 1863, settling in Galway, where they lived and died. John Ruback was educated 
in Germany and came with his parents to America. In 1863 he enlisted in Co. F, 2d 
N. Y. Cavalry, and served two years. He returned to Galway and engaged in farm, 
ing, having a farm of 214 acres. He married Minnie Lamfort, of Germany, and 
they had six sons: Frederick, Charles H., George, fidward, John and William. In 
politics Mr. Ruback is a Republican and has been elected nine years in succession to 
the office of assessor. He is a member of William B. Carpenter Lodge No. 634, G. A. 
R. Dept. N. Y. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian church. 



Shayne, Mrs. Mary, widow of Thomas Shayne, was born in Ireland. September 1, 
1820. In 1840 she came to America with her husband, settling in Galway. where he 
carried on farming until his death in 1885. He was a Democrat in politics and took 
an active part. He and his wife had nine children, of whom five grew to manhood 
and womanhood. The oldest son, C. C. Shayne, was born in Galway, September 23, 
1844. educated in Galway schools, and at seventeen years of age left home. He was 
news agent for the N. Y. Central railroad from Albany to Buffalo, where he re- 
mained two years and at age nineteen he entered the .services of C. B. Camp & Co. 
Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1868 he started in business for himself and in 1873 sold his 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 161 

business and went to New York, where he established the house of C. C. Shayne, 
which is known all over the world as one of the largest of its kind. He is president 
of the Manufacturers' Fur Association ; a member of the Chamber of Commerce and 
Board of Trade and Transportation ; a member of the committee of One Hundred 
and of the Ohio Society. He has been an active politician and has been nominated 
for Congress in the fourteenth district, but declined. He calls Galway his home. 
J. T. Shayne. the second son. was born in Galway. August 26, 1352, educated at a 
private academy and at an early age assisted his brother in the newspaper business 
He worked for his brother in Cincinnati and after several years went as traveling 
salesman for Kno.x & Shayne of New York city. In 1SS4 he established the present 
fur business in Chicago and has about the largest business in the west. He is sole 
agent in Chicago of the celebrated Knox hats. He is now president of the Board of 
Trade there. The oldest daughter of Mrs. Shayne was Annie, deceased; her fourth 
child, Thomas T., resides in Chicago as foreman for his brother; fifth child, Ellen, 
is now deceased. 

Willard Brothers.— This firm is composed of Frank and E. J. ^VIllard, sons of John 
Willard, a native of Corinth. John Willard was educated at Corinth and learned 
the machinist's trade at Troy, and later the carpenter's trade at Ballston, which was 
his business during his life. He came to Galway when a young man and here mar- 
ried Rosa Flannigan. and they had six children. Mr. Willard was a Democrat and 
held the office of constable. He was a member of Galway Lodge No. 453, I. O. O. F. ; 
he died November 2tj, 189(). Edward J. Willard was born in Galway. August 6. 1S5S. 
educated in the common schools and at age fourteen went to Cohoes where he began 
business life as a clerk, but soon returned and learned the carpenter's trade with his 
father and followed it eight years. December 12, 18S6, he, with his brother Frank, 
engaged in the mercantile business in Galway. where they have since conducted a 
successful business. He is a member of the Presbyterian church ; is also engaged in 
the undertaking business with his brother. In politics he is a Democrat and has 
served as collector and took the census in 1890. Frank Willard was V)orn May 22, 
1868, and educated in the common and select schools of Galway. He followed clerk- 
ing for Crouch & Sammons four years and then engaged in the mercantile business 
as stated above. He is a Democrat and was town clerk in 1896-97. He is a mem- 
ber of Galway Lodge No. 453, I. O. O. F. 



Haight. Walton, son of Obediah S. and Lydia (Cougar) Haight, was born in the 
town of Malta, near Saratoga Lake, November 8, 1819. When four years of age his 
parents moved to Malta Ridge, where he has resided ever since. June 3, 1840. he 
married Emaline Weed of Ticonderoga. and they had five children: Lucie A., widow 
of Ransford Wegner of Ballston Spa; Francis L., who lives at home; Ella M. Patter- 
son of Whitehall; Carrie, who married Frank Whitehead of Paterson, N. J., and 
died in December, 1895; and Hermance O. of Malta. Mrs. Haight died November 
18, 1893. Mr. Haight has served his town as justice of the peace twelve years, asses- 
sor nine vears, collector, constable and town commis^sioner. 



Pearse, Samuel W., was born in Clifton Park township, October 23, 1847, a son of 
Adam E. and Marv (Wilbur') Pearse. He acquired his education in the district 

k 



1G2 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

schools of his native place and on conclusion of his school clays removed to Malta, 
where he embarked in the general merchandise business, in which he has continued 
until the present time. In 1891 he was elected supervisor and re-elected in 1893 and 
1895 and served in the position with marked ability. On June 4, 1873, Mr. Pearse 
married Hattie M. Simpson of Maltaville, and they have one son, Frank W. , born 
October 3, 1874. Mr. Pearse is a member of Waterford Lodge No. 140, F. & A. M., 
and of the Odd Fellows fraternity. 

Wilson & Carscadden, furniture dealers and undertakers, an old business con- 
ducted by young men. This thriving establishment was first inaugurated by Miles 
Root in 1843, and was carried on by him continuously for fifty years. In 1893 he 
was succeeded by Welling & Ensigo, and iu 1895 Mr. Welling's interest was pur- 
chased by W. D. Wilson, the firm becoming Wilson & Ensign. In 1897 Mr. Ensign 
withdrew and was succeeded by J, II. Carscadden, when the present copartnership 
was inaugurated. The firm manufacture and deal in all kinds of household and 
office furniture, do upholstering work of all kinds and in connection with their other 
trade carry on the undertaking bu.siness, which has been one of the prominent fea- 
tures of the house for fiftj'-six years. They own a fine hearse and are prepared to 
to respond at all hours, either day or night, and have the facilities and experience 
necessary to conduct funerals in the most appropriate and becoming manner. They 
are both practical embalmers and are graduates of schools of embalming. Mr. Wil- 
son is a native of Coonville. Mr. Carscadden was born and reared in Schuylerville. 
He is a graduate of the Albany Business College, and a young man of fine business 
attainments. The firm are popular and enjoy a large trade throughout Saratoga 
and adjoining towns. 

Pangburn, Nicholas, was born in New Scotland, Albany county, N. Y. , January 5, 
1838. a son of James and Polly (Houck) Pangburn. His parents came to Saratoga 
county about 1850, where they lived six years and then moved to Wisconsin, and 
now live at Sauk Center, Minn. Nicholas Pangburn was educated in the common 
schools of Albany county, and when about nineteen years of age started out in life 
for himself as a carpenter, serving an apprenticeship of three years. In 1863 he 
started a general merchandise store at West Milton, which he carried on for about 
five years. From 1850 to 1863 he followed contracting and building. In 1867 he 
sold his store and went to work at his trade which he followed three years, when he 
entered the employ of George West, with whom he remained fifteen years as a car- 
penter and millwright. In 1894 he was appointed postmaster of West Milton, which 
he held four years, in connection with which he carried on a general merchandi.se 
business, which he is now interested in, also works at his trade. In September, 
1859, Mr. Pangburn married Hannah Young, and they had four children: John I., 
William. Albert C. and George ; he married a second time, Emma Gower, and they 
have two children: Harry E. and Nellie. Mr. Pangburn is interested in town and 
county affairs, and has been overseer of the poor three years, constable fifteen yeais 
and formerly a member of the I.O.O.F. of West Milton 



Perry, Joseph C, is the son of Rowland and Matie D. (Corkins) Perry, and he has 
two sisters, Adaline, widow of James Sherman, and Mary J., wife of George Bracket. 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 1G3 

Both parents are dead. Mr. Perry's uncle, Kellogg Perry, was a soldier in the war 
of 1812, and participated in the various campaigns and movements against the Brit- 
ish incidental to that time. His grandfather, Absalom Perry, was the founder of 
what used to be known as Perry's settlement, west of the village of Wilton, where 
he owned a large tract of land. In 18G0 Mr. Perry married Elizabeth Deyo and they 
had seven children : George, Edgar, Albert, Charles, Frederick, and Edith, wife of 
Charles Brower, and Alice, wife of Frank Van Wagoner. Mr. Perry's farm is situ- 
ated one mile southeast of Gurn Spring, where he carries on general farming. 



Richards, John, was born in the town of Saratoga, on what is known as Saratoga 
avenue, about two miles north of Ballston Spa, a son of Jacob and Nancy (Woods) 
Richards. Mr. Richards's grandfather, Jacob Richards, came to this county from 
Canaan, Conn., with his family about 17S7 and settled near Rowland's Hollow, where 
he followed general farming, improving the land, etc., and was one of the organizers 
and builders of the Episcopal church that was formerly located in the central part 
of the town of Milton. John Richards was educated in the common schools of the 
towns of Milton and Saratoga, and when about twenty-one years of age his father 
died and he purchased his father's farm, which he has carried on up to the present 
time. He married Gertrude 1*'., daughter of Harry Clark of Oxford, Orange county, 
N. v., and they have one son, Henry Clark. Mr. Richards has been active in town 
and county affairs; in 1886-87 he represented his town on the board of supervisors; 
was highway commissioner si.x years and has also taken an active part in school 
work. He has been a member of the Episcopal church of Ballston Spa since he was 
quite young and is at present a warden of the church and was formerly vestryman. 



Smith, Franklin H., son of Rev. George and Hannah (Temple) Smith, was born in 
Granville, Washington county, December 14, 1832, educated in the public schools 
and North Hebron Institute. At the age of twenty-three he left home and went to 
Brooklyn, where he was a merchant for three years and then returned to North 
Hebron and went into the general merchandise business, which he continued until 
1872. He was appointed by President Lincoln postmaster and continued through 
(Jrant's second term, when he removed to Saratoga and kept a grocery and meat 
market, in company with Mr. Horace Jones, under the firm name of Smith & Jones. 
This firm dissolved after one year and Mr. Smith returned to North Hebron, dis- 
posed of his property interests there and in 187C purchased his present farm, which 
is located three miles north of Saratoga Springs. He is extensively engaged in fruit 
raising, gardening and bottling pickles. Politically he is a Repuljlican; was town 
clerk in North Hebron and has been justice of the peace, elected in 1888. In 1862 
Mr. Smith married Clara White, daughter of Adna White of New Haven, Vt., and 
they had six children, five now living: Archie F. , Elma, wife of Gilbert Hodges; 
Daisy W., teacher; Lester E., who is a student in the medical department of the 
University of Vermont at Burlington; and Harriet E., a teacher in the public schools. 



Winnie, Killian D. , son of Dow and Martha A. (Boyce) Winnie, was born near 
Grangerville, in 1809, and has passed the eighty-ninth mile stone in life's highway. 
Mr. Winnie is in full possession of all his faculties and retains his eyesight to a re- 



164 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

markable degree. He personally superintends all the details of his large farm, situ- 
ated near the junction of Saratoga, Wilton and Northumberland townships. He is 
probably one of the oldest of the county's inhabitants. Mr. Winnie received his 
education in the schools of the vicinity, conquering all the higher branches offered in 
those early days, until he was competent to teach, which he did for a number of 
years. In 1833 he married Sarah C. Moshicr, who died several years ago, and their 
children are William, Mary and Catharine. Mr. Winnie learned the carpenter's 
trade which he followed for many years, and this .section of the county is dotted 
with innumerable school houses, dwelling and farm buildings, which he erected dur- 
ing the long interval of his life. Mr. Winnie still takes an active interest in public 
affairs and is enabled to vividly portray the scenes and events of the past eighty 
years. 



Baker, George A., son of Lansing and Amanda (Reynolds) Baker, was born at 
Glens Falls, September 13. 1851. His father was a merchant and for some time con- 
tinued in that business, but subsequently sold out and purchased a farm in the vicin- 
ity of Glens Falls. Here he remained until 18G7, when he purchased the farm where 
George A. now resides and remained there until his death in 1883. Mr. Baker re- 
mained at home on the farm until 1884, when he disposed of it and removed to Glens 
Falls, engaging in the business of selling hay and grain with Frederick Sellick. 
They dissolved partnership after two years and Mr. Baker again entered the field of 
business as a dealer in coal and wood, which he continued for seven years, at which 
time he returned to Wilton and purchased the old homestead of 16.5 acres. May 7, 
18T4, he married Maria Heath and they have three children; Cora, Jessie, wife of 
Erwin Smith, and Roscoe. 



Peck, Henry C, son of George H. and Sarah Cramer Peck, was educated at Fort 
Miller Academy and the Albany Business College, class of 1889. Mr. Peck remained 
at home until his marriage in February, 1895, to Sarah McNeil, and they have two 
children: Marion H., aged two and one half years and an infant son. Mr. Peck 
carries on general farming, handles beef, cattle, sheep and hogs, also keeps a fine 
dairy of milch cows. He believes in the good old fashioned kind of farming, that is, 
never to sell a pound of hay or grain which can be profitably fed and disposed of on 
the farm. Mr. Peck is the selling agent for Bowker's celebrated fertilizers and hand- 
les the Worcester (Mass.) Buckeye mowers. He is one of the most progressive of 
farmers and is a member of Bacon Hill Grange, No. 133. 



Sparling, James W., son of James H. and Eleanor Sickles Sparling, was born at 
Edenburg, N. J., in 1853, and educated in the common schools. He purchased his 
present farm of 125 acres twenty-five years ago and carries on general farming. In 
1877 Mr. Sparling married and has four children: Harry E , Percy J., Reed W. and 
Erzeline. Politically Mr. Sparling is in favor of the best man for office in local con 
tests. He is a member of Bacon Hill Grange P. of H. 



Baker, John T., was born on the Baker homestead a mile north of Mechanicville, 
April 17. 1817, a son of James and Ruth (Post) Baker, who came to this county from 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 165 

Dutchess county and followed the occupation of farming. Mr. Baker married Lucie, 
daughter of John Stever, and their children are Sarah, Louisana, wife of George A. 
Earing, Silas, Albert, David S. (deceased), Fremont, Holmes, Florence, wife of 
Daniel B. Earing, and Grace, wife of Dwight Gailor. Mrs. Baker died and for his 
second wife Mr. Baker married Sarah A., daughter of George and Phoebe (Wilker) 
Holmes, and their children are Belle, wife of Fred Gailor, Bailey, Clarence and 
Louise. Mr. Baker has been active in town and county affairs and has represented 
his town on the board of supervisors, also held several town offices. His .son, David, 
now deceased, was a lawyer and a member of the firm of I'ond & French. 



Iiritton, Reuben, was born in Albany county, January 27. 1831, a son of William 
and Jane Britton. William's children were Reuben, Katie Jane, William Henry, 
Perrin, Julia, Ann and Levi, all deceased excepting Reuben and Julia Ann. Reuben 
was married when seventeen years of age to Elizabeth, daughter of Henry Van Wie, 
and they had nineteen children: Ellen, William, Susan, John, Jane Ann, Adelia, 
Mary Elizabeth, Emily, Reuben, Levi, Elraira, Thomas, Melvina, Julia Ann, Adelia 
and four who died in infancy. Soon after his marriage he rented a farm and com- 
menced life for himself; four years later he started in the grocery and liquor busi- 
ness, also wood and timber. Later he burnt lime and worked as a mason in con- 
structing buildings. He settled in Saratoga county in 1851 and has since followed 
farming. He started in life depending entirely upon his own reisources and through 
industry, economy and integrity he has amassed ([uite a property. He owns about 
a thousand acres of land besides other property. He is active in the affairs of his 
town and county and contributes more toward the schools than any other man in his 
district. At the famil)' gathering, which is held annually, there are from eighty to 
ninety of the relatives present. William R. and John R were both members of Co. 
C, Seventy-seventh Regiment N. Y. S. Vols. John R. had the misfortune to have 
his arm shot off and William R. was wounded in the arm. Reuben's parting in- 
structions to his sons when leaving for the war was " Boys, come home with no 
holes shot through the front of your clothes." 



Edmonds. Charles, was born in the town of Saratoga, December 1, 1820, a son of 
Samuel Edmonds. His early life was spent on the farm with his father, attending 
school winters and assisting on the farm summers. When twenty-one years of age 
he started in life for himself as a farm laborer, which he followed until he was about 
thirty years old, then took charge of his father's business, and upon the death of his 
father he purchased the property. He married Ruth, daughter of James and Abbie 
Smith. Mr. Edmonds in early life was active in town and county affairs, and educa- 
tional matters. Samuel Edmonds was a veteran of the war of 1812. 



Neilson, Frank W., was born in Stillwater, February 7, 185S, a son of Sanford and 
Dorcas A. (Smith) Neilson. He was educated in the common schools of Stillwater 
and Colgate Academy. He is associated with his father in the lumber, wood and 
coal business and formerly in the manufacture of straw board. He married Elsie 
E., daughter of Philip H. and Sarah E. (Wood) Potter, and they have two children: 
Ethel P. and Lucele A. Mr. Neilson has been active in town and count v affairs; 



ICG OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

was supervisor two terms and candidate for slieriff in 1898. He and his father are 
interested in public enterprises. His father's early life was spent on a farm near 
Bemis Heights, with his father, Charles C. He was graduated from Union College 
and in 1873 entered the lumber, wood and coal business in Stillwater, which he has 
followed to the present time. He also buys for shipping farm produce. Frank W. 
is a member of Montgomei'}- Lodge F. & A. M., No. 504, and is at present senior 
deacon and was formerly junior warden. 



Sarle, Eugene, was born at Sarle's Ferry, December 8, 1849, a son of Benjamin 
and Amanda (Knight) Sarle. He was educated in the common schools of the town 
of Saratoga, and his early life was spent on the farm with his father, attending 
school winters and assistmg on the farm summers. When he was about twenty 
years of age he started in life for himself as a farmer, which business he has fol- 
lowed to the present time. He married Annie Rebecca, daughter of George and 
Helen Wandell. In politics he is a Republican and is active in affairs of the town and 
countj'. Benjamin Sarle's children were Sanford, Van Buren, Harriet, wife of 
George Bennett, Eugene and Emma (deceased). Benjamin Sarle was the first of 
the family to settle here, coming from Providence, R. 1., with his wife, Hannah 
(Clauson) Sarle. 

Smith, Lyman, was born in Stillwater, October 27, 1823, a son of Bliss and Esther 
(Newland) Smith. His father came from Bennington, Vt., and settled near Bemis 
Heights. He had ten children: Elias, Penette, Newland, Henry, Lansing, Matilda, 
Sarah, Lyman, Dorcas and Wallace W. Lyman Smith was educated in the common 
schools of Stillwater and when twenf\--si.\ years of age started in business as a livery- 
man and clerk in a general merchandise store. He afterwards purchased the Still- 
water and Mechanicville stage line and in 186!) sold his business interests. In 1868 
he started in the general merchandise business in Stillwater, which he has followed 
to the present time; he has also been interested in the straw board mill. February 
18, 1857, he married Harriet, daughter of RoUand Atkins, who died February 1. 
1896. He has been supervisor and town clerk; has been an active worker in the 
Stillwater Baptist church and has been trustee forty years and treasurer thirty years. 
He was taken with lameness when ten years old and has been compelled to use a 
crutch ever since, which has caused him to labor under great disadvantage and frum 
this standpoint he is deserving of great credit. 



Medbery, Nathan, was born in Greenfield, July 26, 1817, a son of Stephen and 
Lydia (Martin) Medbery, natives of Rhode Island, who came to Greenfield when 
children. Stephen Medbery owned the farm Nathan now has and there lived and 
died, and where he reared a large family of thirteen children who grew to man and 
womanhood. Nathan Medbery was educated in the common schools and carries on 
farming, having a farm of seventy-seven acres where he lives and twenty acres else- 
where. He is unmarried and in politics is a Democrat. He has made his own prop- 
erty and has been very successful. 



Hill, Setb, was born in Greenfield, August 10, 1841, a son of Josiah, sou of Daniel, 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 107 

an early settler of that town. Josiah was a lumberman ; in politics a Democrat; he 
married Sallie V. Carr, and died in 1859. Seth Hill was reared on a farm and ed- 
ucated in the common schools. He is a carpenter aud farmer and owns 100 acres 
where he lives and nine acres of meadow land on the Kayaderosseras River. In 
politics he is a Republican and has been collector and constable. He is a member 
of GreenHeld Lodge No. 308, I. O. O. F., of the S. S. Craig Post No. 66.5, G. A. R., 
and of the Greenfield Grange. October 8, 1868, he married Jennie Hewitt, and they 
have one adopted son, Eddie. Mr. Hill enlisted on August 30, 1802, in Co. H, 1.53d 
N. Y. Vols., and .served three years; was at Sabine Cross Roads, Pleasant Hill, Cain 
River Crossing, Mansura Plains, Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek. He 
was first sergeant and is now serving his second year as commander of the Grand 
Army Post. Daniel Hill died July 12, 1829, aged seventy-three years; he and his 
wife were members of the Baptist church. Jonathan Carr married Miss Brower and 
died April 23, 1849, in Jefferson county, aged ninetj'-three years. 



T>a Point, Frank, was born in Canada, September 26, 1840, a son of Frank and 
Catherine (Suprenent) La Point, who came from Canada to the United States iu 
1840, settling in Franklin county. Vt., and to Glens Falls in 1856, where he died in 
1896 at the age of seventy-nine years. Frank was reared on a farm, and August 26, 
1862, he enlisted in Co. K, loSd N. Y. Infantry, and served three years; he was at 
Pleasant Hill, Cain River, Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek. He has fol- 
lowed farming and lumbering and has been very successful. He owns 310 acres of 
land and lives near Porter's Corners on what was the Dow Rolland farm. On Aug- 
ust 30, 1862, he married Julia Miller, and they had thirteen children; the living are 
William H., Fredie F., Jennie R., Edward F., Herton A., Alice and Katie. 



Atwell, Henry, was born in Maine, March 6, 1840, a son of Peter B. and Inora 
(Pierson) Atwell. Peter B. was a farmer and lumberman and died in 1890, his wife 
in 1892. Henry Atwell was nineteen years at sea as a sailor. In 1868 he married 
Sarah Surty, and they had seven children: Mary, Minnie (deceased), Clarence F., 
Charles H., Thomas W., George W. and Edith M. Minnie married William Simmons, 
and she died in Saratoga, leaving one child, Ethel M. In 1868 Mr. Atwell came to 
Corinth and bought eighty acres of land. He owns 261 acres and follows farming 
and lumbering. 

Menshausen, Henry, was born in New York city, July 5, 1858, a son of Henry and 
Minnie (Wiesenberg) Menshausen, natives of Germany, who came to the United 
States, he in 1853, and she in 1857. They lived in New York city until 1875 and 
then came to Porter's Corners and purchased the Gibbs grist mill of which he was 
the owner until his death July 29, 1890. Henry Menshausen was educated in New 
York city and was with his father in the grist mill and at his father's death became 
proprietor and has since been very successful. On June 5, 1890, he married Carrie, 
daughter of Alfred Humphries, and they have three children; Bertha May, William 
Walter and Floyd. Mr. Menshausen's father while in New York city was foreman 
for Brewster & Co. for ten years and was also in the carriage business for himself 
there, in which he was very successful, but sold out and came to Porter's Corners as 
stated above. 



168 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

Shaul, Nicholas, was born in Herkimer county, N. Y., January 2, 1839, a son oE 
David I., a son of John, a native of New York State and of German descent, and 
who was taken by Brandt and seven Indians during the Revolutionary war and was 
five years a prisoner. Nicholas Shaul was reared on a farm, educated in the grammar 
schools and Fort Plain Seminary and followed farming in Otsego county a short 
time, when he came to Galway and purchased a farm, but in one year returned to 
Herkimer county and was engaged in buying cheese for about one year. He then 
came to Greenfield and has here since resided. He has practiced law in the justice's 
courts in Middlegrove and has done an extensive business; he has also been actively 
engaged in political matters, being an ardent Republican. He has held the office of 
highway commissioner, constable and deputy sheriff for about twenty years, serving 
first under Franklin Carpenter. Mr. Shaul is a member of the I. O. O. F., No. 4TG, 
of Middlegrove, and also of the Baptist church of that place. He has married three 
times, first in 1859 to Diantha Ackler, by whom he had one son, Millard A. ; and sec- 
ond to Adaline D. Taylor; and his present wife was Mary J. Briggs. 



Smith, William C, was born in Greenfield, on the farm he owns, June 2, 1822, a 
son of William, and grandson of William Smith, a soldier in the Revolutionary war 
and who was killed during the war. Mr. Smith's father was born in Smithfield, R. I., 
April 6. 1780, and in 1795 came to Greenfield, N. Y. , with his mother and stepfather, 
Abner Williams. He was a carpenter and joiner bv trade and bought 1.50 acres of 
land in Greenfield, where he lived and died. He was a temperance man and never 
used tobacco. He married Nancy G. Howland, born January 5. 1785, and they had 
three sons, William C, the only one now living. Mrs. Smith died in 1823 and in 
1826 he married Catharine Fenton, daughter of Col. Adam Comstock. Mrs. Smith 
died May 11, 1869, aged ninety-one years, and he died April 10, 1871, aged ninety- 
one years. William C. was reared on the farm and educated in the common schools; 
he is a man well informed and has been a great student. He was in the mercantile 
business for five years at Saratoga Springs, with William P. Comstock, and later 
spent two years as a broker at Saratoga Springs in the office of John T. Carr; he 
then came on the farm he owns, where he has since lived. On August 7, 1855, he 
married Caroline Morey, and they had three children : Hattie M., Albert G. (deceased), 
and Ida M., who has graduated from the Saratoga High School and the Albany 
•Normal School and has taught in the Normal School one and one-half years. Hattie 
M. was educated at Poultney (Vt.) Genesee Wesleyan Seminary and Macedon Center 
Academy. Mr. Smith was a Whig and has been a Republican since the organiza- 
tion of the party ; he was always anti-slavery. He has been justice of the peace 
about twelve years. He is very liberal in religious views and is a member of the 
American Secular Union. Mrs. Smith died March 4, 1864. 



Ballou, Krastus M., was Ijorn in Greenfield, on the farm he owns, April 23, 1848, 
a son of Dutee, sou of Dutee Ballou, who came to (Jreenficld about 1800 and took up 
the farm Erastus M. now owns and here lived and died. Mr. Ballou's father was a 
farmer, but is now retired at the age of eighty-five; his wife died January 1, 1898. 
Krastus M. was educated in the common schools and has a farm of three hundred 
and si.xty-si.x acres of land. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of the 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 109 

Greenfield Lodge No. 308, LO.O.F.. and of the Grange. In 1880 he married Ellen 
Goodrich, and they have four children: Fred E., Eugene D. , Ernest M. and Ber- 
tha E. 



Bush, A. J., was born in Utica, N. Y.,- January 3, 1850. His father, Jacob Bush, 
was a native of Germany, and came to the United States in 1850 and to Ballston in 
1868, and has been engaged in the coal and wood business. A. J. Bush was ed- 
ucated in Ballston. and learned the sash, door and blind trade, at which he served 
four years. In 1876 he commenced business for himself and for twenty-two years 
has been engaged in contracting and building. In 1889 he purchased the Abijah 
Comstock lumber yard, which he now conducts. In 18T9 he married Mary E., 
daughter of Mr. Caren, and they have four children: James A., John, Sarah May 
and Alice. Mr. Bush is one of the self-made men of his town, taking an intelligent 
interest in school and church matters and has ever received and merited tlie respect 
of his associates. 



Hall, A. J., was born in Ballston, April 17, 1835, a son of Henry Hall, a native of 
Saratoga county, and born on the old homestead which vras settled in 1750. Henry 
Hall married Jane, daughter of Richard and Hannah Burtis, and through life was a 
mason by trade; he died in 1856. A. J. Hall was educated in the public schools and 
learned the mason's trade of his father, and has been identified as a contractor and 
builder. In 1873 he married Anna, daughter of Col. C. T. Peek, and they had one 
daughter, Nellie M., who died in 1893. Mr. Hall is a self-made man, and takes an 
active interest in the M. E. church, of which he is steward and class leader. He has 
through life been recognized as a man of sterling integrity, whose life has proven 
his word as good as his bond. 



Salisbury, Abraham E., was born in Albany, October 21, 1845. a son of John and 
Lorena (Van Dusen) Salisbury, educated in the schools at Albany, and at eighteen 
years of age started in life for himself in the stone business, which he followed seven 
years, then moved to the northern part of the town of Ballston and located on the 
farm where he now lives, which contains one hundred and forty-five acres. He was 
also interested in the stone business in 1878-79 in Albany county, N. Y. When 
twenty-four years of age he married Hannah, daughter of Isaac and Rachael Brate, 
and they have two daughters: Annie and Mary. Mr. Salisbury is a public spirited 
man ; is a member of the Episcopal church of Ballston and is much interested in ed- 
ucational work, as both of his children have received the benefit of the schools of 
Albany, N. V. 



Patterson, Alexander A., was born in Belfast, Ireland, December 9, 1827, a son of 
John L. and Mary (Austin) Patterson, and was educated in his native country and 
in this country. He is a builder and architect by trade and erected some of the finest 
edifices in Saratoga Springs, besides important work in Connecticut, Florida and 
Central New York. He was the designer of Glen Island and its beauty is a tribute 
to his ability. Mr. Patterson has long given special attention and study to the min- 
eral waters of Saratoga Springs. In 1888 he and his son. A. A. Patter.son, jr., suc- 
ceeded in reaching a natural subterranean reservoir whose waters differ materially 



170 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

from all others in Saratoga and possess peculiar medicinal qualities of great effi- 
ciency. This spring, ever since known as the Patterson Spring, is one of the most 
popular, both at home and throughout the country, over which its water is sold ex- 
tensively. Mr. Patterson has always taken an active part in public affairs and is 
enterprising and progressive in everything. He was a trustee of Saratoga Springs 
from 1862 to 1869 and was the first Republican to hold office in the village. He was 
also a member of the board of education for several years and has held other offices. 
In 1852 he was commissioned captain in the 29th N. Y. Artillery and at the breaking 
out of the Rebellion had charge of Camp Schuyler, by appointment of General Rath- 
bone. He took a prominent part in mustering men for service in 1861, and in De- 
cember of that year delivered a part of the 77th Regiment at Washington; he was 
then commissioned general recruiting officer by the war department. Mr. Patterson 
married Louisa A. Hobby, granddaughter of Col. David Hobby of Westchester, 
N. Y., and their children are William, Alexander A., jr., David H., Louisa H. and 
Mary A. Mrs. Patterson's father, David R. Hobby, served in the war of 1812, and 
her grandfather. Col. David Hobby, was a distinguished soldier in the Revolution- 
ary war. 

Nims, Clark H., proprietor of the " Western Hotel " in Saratoga Springs, is one of 
the best hotel men of Saratoga county. He has been a resident of Saratoga Springs 
for eighteen years and previously conducted hotels in the villages of Stony Creek, 
Corinth and Palmer Falls, Since 1882 he has conducted the Western Hotel at the 
intersection of Church and Lawrence streets; the hou.se is complete in appointments 
and first-class in every particular, having accommodations for one hundred guests. 
Mr. Nims is also engaged in a livery business and conducts a retail provision store. 
He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and has taken a prom- 
inent part in local Republican politics. For nine years he served as constable and 
deputy sherilT in the town of Corinth. He married Frances M. Hagadorn, daughter 
of Herman Hagadorn of Corinth, and of their union are two daughters; Maud A. 
and Lottie M. Nims. 



Koenig, George V., was born in the State of Rhine-Hessen, Germany, November 
3, 1852, and educated in his native place. At the age of fourteen he took up the bar- 
ber's trade which he has pursued all his life with great success. In 1868 he came to 
America and settled in New York city, and in 1871 came to Saratoga Springs, where 
he settled permanently and now conducts three shops. Mr. Koenig is a member of 
the Masonic fraternity and the Royal Arcanum, and is closely identified with tlie 
public life of Saratoga Springs. He has served on the board of health two years, 
and as jjolice commissioner four years. He married Theresa Hefi^ernan, who died 
November 27, ISSO, leaving three children : May Theresa, Madeline M. and Jennie V. 



Hanimon<l, Frederick, was born in Galesville, Washington county, N.Y., Septem- 
ber 21, 1837, a son of Jonathan and Lydia (Shaw) Hammond. His father was for 
many years a prominent farmer in this vicinity and later removed to Saratoga 
Springs and assisted in laying out the (Jieen Ridge Cemetery in 1841. He died in 
1884 in the seventy-eighth year of his age, having been sexton of this cemetery since 
its establishment. Frederick Hammond attended the public schools of Saratoga 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 171 

Springs and after leaving school learned the harness maker's trade; later he served 
an apprenticeship to the painter's trade under Marcus Childs, and followed this occu- 
pation for some years. He has always been fond of travel and has visited every 
State in the Union. Mr. Hammond succeeded his father as se.\ton of the Green 
Ridge Cemetery and has since held this position. He is well known in Saratoga 
Springs, was a member of the Volunteer Fire Department for many years and is 
now a member of the Veteran Firemen's Association. He has one son, William II. 
Hammond. 



Ferguson, W., was born in Toronto, Canada, March 31, 1861, and came to this 
country with his parents when eight years of age. He was educated in Connecti- 
cut, and there also learned the trade of engineer. In 1888 he came to Saratoga 
Springs and has been engineer for Congress Hall since that date. He married Jen- 
nie Stiles, and they have two children. Mr. Ferguson is prominent in Masonic cir- 
cles, being a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and Coramander5'. His 
father was a native of Scotland and was educated in a Scotch university. He was 
a mechanical engineer and reputed to be one of the most scientific in this country. 
He emigrated to Canada in 1S4.5 and subsequently to the United States. In Scot- 
land he was a ship engineer. He died in Saratoga Springs in 1895. 



Bacon, George F., engineer of the Saratoga Water Works, was born in Saratoga 
Springs, February 22, 1846, a son of Benjamin and Mary A. Bacon. His grand- 
father was a soldier in the war of 1813. He was educated in common schools and in 
1864 enlisted in Co. F. Thirteenth N. Y. Heavy Artillery, serving until the close of 
the war. He studied engineering and was appointed assistant engineer of the Sara- 
toga water works. Mr. Bacon has been identified with the water works since 1871, 
and great improvements have been effected during his regime. He was appointed 
chief engineer January 1, 1888, and still fills this position. Mr. Bacon is a member 
of McKee Post, G.A.R. He married, November 4, 1869, Agnes M. Quigg, and they 
have one daughter, Mary A. 

Clark. E. Clinton, was born in Essex county, N. V., near Fort Ticonderoga, and 
was educated in Williamstown. Mass., and at Albany, N. Y. He has resided in Sar- 
atoga county since 18,56 and was engaged in the lumber business in Albany for many 
years, but has been out of active business for some time. His children are Samuel 
C, Frederick (i., Frank H., Marion Green and Helen Clinton. Mr. Clark's maternal 
grandparents were James and Hulda (Ketchum) Green; his great-grandfather 
Ketchura was a captain in the Revolutionary war and came to Saratoga with a com- 
pany of soldiers, participating in the battle of Saratoga and sub.sequently purchased 
the property at Ketchum's Corners, which place is named after him. The (Jreen 
family had settled on the west side of Saratoga Lake and the Ketchums being on the 
east side, they were neighbors and James Green married Hulda Fiske. James Green 
once owned High Rock spring and the surrounding property. Martha Louisa (ireen, 
grandmother of E. Clinton Clark, was born in 1793, in the old Schuyler house near 
the High Rock Spring. Judge I-Cetchura, one of the early judges of the Supreme 
Court, was one of this family and another member was one of the first sheritTs of 
Saratoga county. Richard Ketchum, great-grandfather of E. Clinton Clark, was a 



172 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

member of the Xew York State Legislature in the early days. Several of the 
Ketchums were lawyers and all were prominent men of their day and were always 
on friendly terms with the Indians. The Clarks are an old American family and 
several generations of them lived on the borders of Lake Champlain. 



Blittersdorf, Isadore, was a native of Germany and came to Saratoga county 
where he was engaged in box manufacturing. In 1853 he married Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Jacob and Eleanore (Vischer) Medder, and they had three sons and one 
daughter: Austin, Francis, Charles and Mrs. Matilda Maxon. Mr. Blittersdorf was 
one of the prominent men of his town. He died in 1891, and his death was a loss 
not only to his family, but to all who knew him. Of sterling integrity and upright 
character, of him it can well be said " an honest man is the noblest work of God." 



Aken, Nelson P., one of the prominent men of Columbia county, and a leading 
manufacturer of knit goods of Philmont, passed away May 0, 1879, a loss not only to 
his family, but to all who knew him. In 18.'56 he married Eliza L., daughter of Will- 
iam and Jane Lang, one of the leading men of Ballston, and they had one daughter, 
Beulah L. M. Mr. Aken was a man who was thoroughly identified in the growth 
and building up of Philmont, in the advancement of educational and religious insti- 
tutions, and was recognized as a man of sterling integrity. Of him it can well be 
said "an honest man is the noblest work of God." 



Taylor, James, was born in Canada, December IG, 1827, a son of Isaac and Betsey 
(Thompson) Taylor, he born in Massachusetts and she in Ireland; they both went to 
Canada and there lived and died. James Taylor was reared on the farm, educated 
in the common schools and follows farming and lumbering; he also owns a saw niill. 
He came to Greenfield in 18S1 and here owns a farm of 103 acres. He married 
Abigail B. Spaulding, sister of Charles W. Spaulding, superintendent of the county 
house, and they have three children: Edgar J., G. Albert, and Alice, wife of Isaac 
Densmore of Corinth, N. \'. 



.Stratton, Frank W. , was born in the town of Milton, Saratoga county, November 
8, 1844, a son of Stephen and Elizabeth Stratton, shea daughter of William Ford. 
Stephen's children were Charles, Louise, Elizabeth, Frank W. and Annie. Stephen 
was a son of Benjamin and Annie Comstock Stratton, who settled in the town of 
Stillwater about 1797. Frank W. moved from the town of Mdton to Stillwater when 
four years of age, where he was educated in the academy. He started in life as a 
farmer and in 1870 purchased his father's farm, where henow lives. He owns about 
500 acres of land and makes a specialty of dairy and stock raising; he owns a milk 
route in the village of Stillwater. He has been somewhat active in the politics of 
his town and is also interested in educational matters. He is a member of the Sec- 
ond Baptist church, of which he has been a trustee two terms. 



Baker, John C, was born in Mechanicville, N.n'ember 14, 1857, a son of Henry H. 
and Sarah Jane (Holmes) Baker. He was educated in the district schools of the town 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 173 

of Stillwater, and when twenty-one years of age started in life for himself, working 
on a farm. When twenty-five years old he purchased the farm where he now resides 
and what he now has, has been won by his own exertion. He follows general farm- 
ing and dairying, having a milk route in the village of Mechanicville. He has 150 
acres of land and keeps about twenty-five cows. He was married when he was 
twenty-nine years old to Ella M., daughter of David C. AVallace. He was elected 
supervisor of his town in 1896-97, and is a member of the A. O. U. W. Henry H. 
followed farming near Round Lake in the town of Stillwater. He was a very strong 
Democrat and took an active part in town affairs. He had three children: Ida J., 
wife of George Carlton, John C. and Walter Bloom. 



Earing, Daniel B. , was born in the central part of the town of Stillwater, October 
31, 1853, a son of Harvey and Almira (Hanes) Earing. Harvey Earing was a native 
of Columbia county and settled in Saratoga county in 1833, starting in for himself as 
a laborer. In 1862 he purchased the farm where his son now lives. He was a very 
active man, starling in life with scarcely anything, and through economy and hard 
work accumulated considerable property. Daniel K. Earing received a common 
.school education and when twenty-one years of age started in life for him.self as a 
laborer and farmer. In 1890 he purchased the farm where he now lives from his 
father's heirs, and also deals in wood and timber. He married Florence, daughter 
of John T. Baker, and they have one adopted son, Raymond. Mr. Earing is active 
in town affairs and is a member of the Mechanicville M. E. church and formerly a 
member of Halfmoon Lodge, 1. O. O. F. 



Farley, John, was born in the southern part of the town of Stillwater, December 
23, 1848, a son of John and Mary (Grace) Farley, who were natives of Ireland, and 
settled in the town of Clifton Park about 1830. John Farley was an industrious and 
self-made man and through his own industry he accumulated some money and prop- 
erty. His children were John. Mary, wife of William Tierney, Bernard, Philip and 
Thomas. John, jr., lived with his father until he was twenty-two years old, when 
he married Margaret, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Quinlan) Farlow, and their 
children are Mary, Elizabeth and Alice, all born on the farm where they now live. 
Mr. Farley by occupation is a farmer and when thirty years old purchased the farm 
where he now lives. He is actively interested in town and county affairs, and all 
public spirited enterprises. He and his family are active workers in the Catholic 
church. 



Clements, Edgar D., was born in. Dixboro, Washtenaw county, Mich., March 14, 
1860, a son of James P. and Mary A. (Finch) Clements, both now deceased. Mr. 
Clements was educated in the common schools and the Schuylerville High School; 
he also took a course of lectures in the medical college at Ann Arbor, Mich., but 
never graduated. He was bookkeeper for his uncle, W. P. Finch, a lumber dealer 
of Schuylerville, for a number of years, and in 1893 purchased his present farm, 
which is beautifully situated and commands a fine view of the Green Mountains and 
the surrounding country. In politics Mr. Clements is a Republican ; has been town 
clerk for five years and fills the office at the present time. He has been delegate to 



174 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

the various conventions anil is president of tlic local board of the Patrons of Indus- 
try. April 8, 1880, he married Ella M. Meyers, and they have two children living, 
four deceased: W. Ral]jh and Florence E. He has a fine dairy of cows and makes 
a specialty of breeding poultry. A thoroughly enterprising citizen, Mr. Clements 
enjoys the highest esteem of his neighbors. 



Ward, Charles H., is a son of Charles and Sarah A. (McfJowan) Ward. Charles 
H. was educated in the public schools and is engaged in general farming and whole- 
sale butchery business. January 8, 18T4, he married Isabella Benson, a native of 
the Provmce of Quebec. Mr. Ward is a member of the Saratoga Lodge No. 115, 
I.O.O. P., and Knights of Pythias. His uncle, Samuel McGowan, was a member of 
Co. G, Seventy-seventh N. Y. Vols., and was seriously wounded in the late war. 
His father died when he was three years old and his mother now resides with her 
son. 



Davidson, John P., was born in England, October 25, 1845, and came with his 
parents to the United States before he was ihree years old. When he enlisted in 
the army, the officer, thinking, as he had grown up in Cohoes, he was born there, 
entered it so upon the records, and this entry here is to correct and e.xplain that rec- 
ord. He was educated in the public schools of Cohoes, and December 14, 1S63, he 
enlisted in Company H, Fourth Heavy Artillery, N. Y. State Volunteers. He was 
honorably discharged September 2C, 1865, and returned to his former home October 
29, 1873. He married Alice Isabell Brott of Waterford, and they had two sons, 
William Henry and Harry Robert. Mr. Davidson's father, William, was born in 
Leeds, England, about the year 1813, and was educated in the .schools there. He 
married Helen Pennington of his native place, and they had two children: John P. 
(as above) and Sarah, who died during the passage to the United States. Mrs. 
Helen Davidson died during the latter part of 1848, and for his second wife, he mar- 
ried Mrs. Catherine Howard, born Blanchard, and they had three children. Mr. 
Davidson had charge of the various kinds of material and tools that were u.sed in 
the Harmony Knitting Mills at Cohoes. He died in 185G, but his widow survives 
him in 1898. Mrs. Alice Davidson's father, Robert Brott, was born in Lansingburgh, 
N. Y., March 32, 1815, and was educated in the schools of that day. He married 
Ann Hoag, of New York city, and they had five children. Mrs. Davidson's father 
and mother are living now, in 1898, with the Davidson family. Mr. Davidson is a 
member of Gen. Philip H. Sheridan Post No. 630, of Waterford, G.A.R., Depart- 
ment of New York, and now, 1898, is senior vice-commander. Mrs. Davidson is a 
member of the W.R.C. and is serving her fourth year as president of the organiza- 
tion. In his political choice he is independent. 



Safford, Henry D., was born in Troy, N. Y., July 25, 18.59, and moved to Stillwater 
when a child with his parents, where he was educated in the public schools. He was 
a telegraph operator, station master and train dispatcher with various railroads here 
and in the west eight years. In 1880 his father. Job S. , and himself formed a part- 
nership under the firm name of J. S. Safford & Son, conducting a first-class hardware 
business in all its branches, making plumbing a specialty. Job S. attended to the 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 175 

mechanical department and Heniy D. to the books aud sales. Henry I), has served 
his townsmen seven years as supervisor with much ability and has been village treas- 
urer one year. He married twice, lirst, in 1883 to Minnie H. Matson of Vermont, 
who died in 1884, and in August, 1884, he married Lucy Hakes; they have two daugh- 
ters; Minnie H. and Lizzie. Job S. Safford was born in Washington county, N. Y., 
October 13, 1839, educated in the common schools and learned the tinsmith's trade. 
In 18157 he married Eliza Conkling. In 18(il he enlisted in Co. F, 77th Infantry N. 
Y. Vols., as sergeant; in 1863 was promoted sergeant-major of the regiment and was 
wounded in the battle of Fredericksburg and the battle of the Wilderness; he was 
honorably discharged in December, 1864. The fatuily came to Mechanicville in 186.5. 
Three children were born to them, Henry D. (as above), Sarah L. and Walter J. 
Sarah L. married Peter J. Best, and they have three children: Walter, Edith and 
Andrew. Walter J. married Anna Lee of Philadelphia, Pa., and they have one son: 
Leon L. Job S. SafFord is a prominent member of Elmer E. Ellsworth Post of Me- 
chanicville, G. A. R., has held all the offices and is now past commander. Henry D. 
Safford is a member of Halfmoon Lodge No. 493,1. O. O. F., (iarfield Lodge No. 
216, K. of P., is an active member of the fire deiiartmeut. a member of Onda-wa 
Lodge No. 820, of this place, F. & A. M., Montgomery Chapter of .Stillwater No. 2.')7, 
R. A. M.. Apollo Cnmmandery of Troy, N. Y., No. 1.5, K. T., Oriental Temple, A. 
A. O. N. M. S. , Albany Sovereign Consistory, and is a thirty-second degree Mason. 



Baker, Warren, was born in the town.ship of Stillwater, Saratoga count)', N. Y., 
October 25, 1829, and educated in the public schools of that day. Mr. Baker's father, 
I. Bloom Baker, was born in Stillwater in 1806, educated in the schools of his day 
and was a farmer. He married Dorcas Humphrey, and they had twelve children, 
nine of whom are now living: Warren, Smith, Henry, Lewis, Permelia, William T. , 
Martin B., Amy and Caroline. Mr. Baker died May 23, 1883, his widow survives at 
this date, 1898. Mrs. Baker's father, William H. Whitney, was born in Columbia 
county, July 3, 1807; he married .Sarah Weldon, and they had seven children; Ab- 
ram, Nancy M., John H., Lydia A., Martha J., (leorge .S., aud Sarah C. Mr. Wliit- 
ney died in 1863 and his wife in 1874. The homestead has been in the family si.Kly- 
two vears. 



Robertson, Andrew, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, January 19, 1838, and 
came to America in 1870. settling in Hartford, Conn., where he remained two years, 
then removed to Troy, N Y., for one year and then to Saratoga Springs, making 
this his permanent home. He learned the trade of carpenter and joiner in Scothand 
and it has been his life's business. He erected many of the fine edifices in Saratoga 
Springs, among them being the armory, casino, the Leech residence, the Academic 
school, school house No. 4, Frank White cottage, Henry Keith cottage, the Kensing- 
ton Hotel, and the Miss McLaughlin cottage. In 1892 Mr. Robertson was succeeded 
in the contracting business by his son, William Stewart Robertson, who learned 
the trade with his father and has become one of the leading contractors of the 
country, as well as a leading business man in Saratoga Springs. He has already 
done a great deal of fine work in Saratoga Springs, among which may be mentioned 
the Stone-Smith cottage, William Martin's cottage, William Ingmire's residence, the 



176 OUR COUNTY AND ITS PEOPLE. 

residence of John 11. Morris and tlic Muniford cottage, all splendid edifices. Mr. 
Robertson is a prominent Mason, being a member of tlie Blue Lodge, Cliapter, 
Council and Commandery, and was for years secretary of the Blue Lodge. Andrew 
Robertson married Susan McMillan, and their children are William S. , Elizabeth, 
wife of Dr. John Easton, of Edinburgh College, Agnes C, and Susan M., wife of 
Thomas J. Evans of Troy. Mr. Robertson was elected assessor in the spring of 
1898, and still holds that office. 



Richardson, Joseph, was born in Saratoga Springs, October 10, 1840. His father, 
Solomon Richardson, was a native of Ma.ssachusetts and came to Greenfield Center 
in 182.5. He married Julia A., daughter of Joseph Wheeler, in 1836. He was identi- 
fied as a soap and candle manufacturer and was recognized as a man of sterling in- 
tegrity. He died in 1846. Joseph Richardson was educated in the public schools 
and Gilmore Academy. For eight years he was engaged in the hardware business, 
and then became interested in the poultry business, of which he was one of the most 
prominent breeders in the State of New York, making a specialty of Light Brahmas. 
Mr. Richardson is one of the conservative men of his town, taking an active interest 
in school and church matters. He is a member of the Odd Fellows Lodge, Milton 
Encampment of Patriarchs, Christian Rebekah Lodge, and Knights of Pythias, serv- 
ing as treasurer for twenty-five years. He is recognized as a man of sterling integ- 
rity, whose word is as good as his bond. 



INDEX 



Abel, David, and children, 98; :!3() 

James, 93 
Abeel, Cornelius, 107 
Abbott, Daniel, 106 
Adams, Alpheus, Dr., 104 

David, 114 

Parker, Rev.. 144, 10.5 

Silas, 83 
Agricultural Society, Saratoga County, 

214, 215 
Ainsworth. Seymour, lS-» 
AI<in, David, 292 
Albrow, John, 112 
Aldridge, Joshua B., 79 
Alford, George, 91 
Allen, Elihu, 204, 351 

H. J., Dr., 454 

R. C. Dr., 445 
Ambler, Jacob, 83 
Ames, Bernice D., 203 note 

George L., 291 
Anable, Ephraim, 93 
Anderson, John, 101 

John K., Dr., 452 

Jonathan, 379; and descendants, 105 

Peter, 104. 378 

William, 87 
Andrews, Ashbel. 43. 3fi0 

Ashbel and Ferdinand. 139 

Denison. 146 

Elisha, 8C. 127. 412 

Isaac. 154 

Peter. 146 

Titus. 1.52 
Angell. Benjamin, 121 
Angle, John, 102 

Nicholas. 102, 138 
Anibal. James, 149 
Anthony, Elihu. 119, 121 

Paul. 120 
Armstrong, Lebbeus. Rev., 107 note, 

1.50, 155. 1.58 
Arnold. General, relieved by Gates, 57 

General, unauthorized services on 
October 7, at Saratoga. 59 

John. 42, 331 



Ashe, William, 91. 92 
Ashley. Daniel, 87 

Stephen, 110 
Assessment, table of property, 475, 470 
Au.stin, Phineas, 123, 384 
Avery, Benjamin. 330; and cliil<iren. 

98 
Ayers, Robert, and children, 99 y 

Babcock, Dr., 451 

Simeon, 103 
Bacon, AlcNander, 372 

Ebenezer. 88, 94, 109 

George F.. 294 

Samuel, 87 
Bailey, Henry. 91. 92, 354 

Herbert O. , 298 

Matthew, 144 

Samuel, 120 
Baker, Edy, 127, 412 

James, 80 

Peter, 91 

William, 1.53 
Baldwin, Abel, Dr.. 165 

Seth C, 82. 126. 411 
Ball. Eliphalet. Rev., and sons. 33, 358 

John, Col., 71, 83, 126. 127, 411 
Ballston and Milton, settlements, schools 
and churches of, from 1783 to 1800, 
78-84 
Ballston, attack on, by British and In- 
dians, 65-70 

churches of, 208, 281, 358 

development of, from 1831 to 1861. 
208 

first settlements in 33-36 

first town officers of. 359 

gazetteer of tlie town of, 357-359 

list of supervisors of, 359 

prisoners taken at the Munroc raid 
on, 68 

villages and hamlets of, 358 
Ballston Spa, churches of, 79 and note, 
80 and note, 196, 197 and note. 338. 340 

development of. from 1800 to 1831, 
132-134 



178 



INDEX. 



Ballston Spa, development of, from 1831 
to 1861, 194-200 

development of manufactures in, 
from 1861 to 1898, 273-275 

fire department of, 296 

first village officers of, 338 

list of village presidents of, 338 

Masonry in, 199 

mineral springs at, 40-1-410 

schools of, 198 

secret societies of, 340 

village, 338-340 

Democrat, the, 289 

Journal, the, 286, 287, 289 
Bancroft, John D., 291 
Bank, Citizens National, of Saratoga, 290 

Commercial National, of Saratoga, 
290 

First National, of Ballston Spa, 291 

First National, of Mechanicville. 292 

Manufacturers' National, of Mechan- 
icville, 292 

National, of Schuylerville, 291 

Saratoga County, at Waterford, 144 

Union Savings, of Saratoga, 290 
Banks, 290-293 
Banta, Aurie, 77, 91 

Henry and Christian, 72 
Bar, prominence of the early, 416 
Barber, Isaac, 155 

Joshua, 88 

Lawrence, 110 

Simeon, 86 
Barbour, Oliver L., sketch of, 435 
Barker, Abraham B., 149 

David and Samuel S., 122 

Joseph, 164 

William, 95 

William, Mrs., 364 
Barnes, John, 91 

Marshall L., 364 

William, 36 
Barney, Asa C, Dr., 120, 164, 447 
Barnum, Eli, 196, 293 

Thomas, 68 
Barrett, Bockes, 154 
Bartlett, Josiah, 104 
Bass, Nathaniel, 105, 379 
Bassett, Jonathan, 87 

Michael, 91 
Batcheller, A. E.,364 

George S. , sketch of, 434 

Sherman and Samuel, 210 
Battle of Saratoga, of September 19, 

55-57; of October 9, 57-61 
Baucus, Joseph, 293 
Beach, Jonathan S., 196, 339 

Miles, 136, 137, 144, 145, 176, 294 



Beach, William Augustus, sketch of, 426 

Zerah, Miles and William A., 81 
Beattie, John J., 292 
Becker, Peter, 95 
Beckwith, Jedediah. 149 
Beebe, Philo T., 154 
Beecher, George C, 291 
Belding, Chauncey and Samuel, 102 
Bell, James and Andrew, 101 

James M., 397 

John, 91 

William, 87, 120 
Bemus, John, 40 
Benedict, Alfred, 146 

Bushnell, 82 

Caleb, 82 

Daniel D., 137 

Elias, 136, 187 

Elisha, and sons, 68 

John, 117 

Lewis, 187 

Micajah, 78, 405 

Robert, 151 

Uriah, 36, 107 
Bennett, Jethro, 88 

Robert, 164 

Thomas, 94 

Wilham, 188 
Beutley, Joel, and two families of chil- 
dren, 83 
Berger, Andrew, 133 
Berry, Sidney, Col., '88, 94, 95, 109, 126, 

411 
Betts, Harmon J., 149 
Bettys, Joseph, career of, 71-75 
Bevins, Edward, 114 

Bible Society, County, organization and 
early officers and members of the, 
165 
Biggies, James, 87 
Billings, Elihu, 92, 94, 95 

Jesse, Dr., 94, 109, 447 
Bishop, Sylvester, 330 
Bitely, Jacob, 37 
Black, Thomas and William, 88 
Blackleach, Joseph, 156 
Blake, Aaron, 149 

James R., 283 
Blakesley, Clement, Dr., 134, 444, 445 
Blanchard, Abijah, 136 
Blatchford, Samuel, Rev., 139, 143, 165 
Bleecker, John, 87, 127, 412 
Blood, Isaiah. 195 and note, 339 

Sylvanus, 164 

Sylvester, 164 
Bloodgood, Lvnott, 148 
Bloodworth, Timothy, Dr., 448 
Blum, Joshua, 331 



INDEX. 



179 



Board of supervisors, officers of the, list 

of, 470 
Boardman. Daniel, 110 
Bockes, Augustus, 190, 300, 414, 415; 
sketch of, 420 

William Hay, 190 
Bolton, Samuel, jr., 379 
Bond, Jonas. 123 

Joseph, 384 
Boocock. J., 309 

Books, first, published in the county, 129 
Booth, Andrew S., 299 

Lebbeus, 16.5, 190 
Boughton, Chauncey, 293 
Bowne, Walter, 176 
Bovce, John, 114 
Boyd, John, 102 
Brackett. Edgar T., 277, 296; sketch of, 

486 
Bradford. George, 123 
Bradley, James. 1.51 
Bradshaw, James, 100 
Bradstreet. John, 136,411 
Brayton, Stephen and William, 111 
Breslin, Thomas, 278, 279 
Brevoort, Henry. 91 
Brewster, Joseph, 104 
Brewer, Kendrick, 87 
Bridge between Waterford and Lansing- 
burgh, 140 
Brisbin, Carruth, 1.55 

C. E., 291 

Giles C, 291 

Giles S.. 206 

James, 371 

James and sons, 43 

James, jr.. 16.5 

James I., 38, 348 

John, 94 

Oliver. Dr., 94, 149. 164 

Thomas, 299 

William and Samuel, 36, 386 
Bristol, George, 362 
Bronson, Jesse, 91 
Brooks, Daniel, 87 

Israel, 91, 115 
Broughton, Walter, 88 
Brown, Anson, 163, 196 

Joseph, 103 

Lewis, 37, 112 

Thomas. 45, 99, 275 

Timothy, 111 

Valentine, 91 
Bryan, Alexander, 96 and note 

John, 331 

Martin L., 149 
Bryant, Dr., 94 
Buckhout. A. A.. 354 



Buell, Ezra, Major, 41. 87, 411 

S. W., 36 
Bull, Daniel, 94, 95, 164, 445 

Daniel and John, 88 

John D., Dr.. 164 

S. C. 292 293 
Bullard, Beroth. Dr., 164 

Daniel A., 390, 291 

1). A., &Co.. 279. 349 

Edward F., 300, 435 

T. E., Dr.. 4.55 
Bunyan, Robert and Alison. 101 
Burgess, Seth. 87 
Burgoyne's advance, incidents of, 49, 50 

Bennington e.xpedilion, 52-54 

capitulation, 62 

retreat, 60, 01 

surrender, articles of, 63. 64 
Burhans. John, 91 
Burke, John H., 299 
Burlingame, Solomon, 91 
Burnham, William. 156 
Burroughs, George, Dr., 165 
Burtis, Richard, 42 

Stephen, 354 
Bushee, Samuel, 92. 94 
Butler. James P.. 436 

Walter P., 436 
Button. L.. 200 

Cable, John, 36 
Cady, Clifford E.. 156 

John and Jeremiah, and sons. 99 

Palmer. 153 

Warren, 330 
Caldwell, Arthur. 88 

James H.. 298 

William B.. 149 
Callahan, Patrick, 151 
Caniberling, Churchill C. 176 
Campaign of 1777, events leading up to 

the, 47, 48 
Campbell, Daniel. 84 

Robert. 88 

Robert, Rev., and son Robert, 85. 
86 
Canals, early proposed. 128 
Cannon, Le Cirand, 177 
Capron, Jacob, 152 
Carey, Dr, 90 

Michael, 285 
Carl, Henry, 102 
Carpenter, Abner, 154 

Charles, 109, 154, 372 

Dr., 99 

John. 87 
Carr, John T., 290 

Sta.?ord. 114 



180 



INDEX. 



Carrington, Martin, 87 
Cavert, John, 44, 45, 373 

Walter I., 298 
Census statistics, 476-478 
Censuses the first, 129, 180 
Centennial celebration of the battle of 
Bemus Heights, 301, 302 

of the Declaration of Indepen- 
dence at Saratoga Springs, 
Ballston and Schuylerville, 300 
of the surrender of Burgoyne, 
302-305 
Chalmers, William, 298 
Chamberlain, Benjamin, 144 
Chambers, William, 45, 373 
Champlain canal, the, 161, 162 
Chapman, Edwin H., 293 
Harvey, 196, 339 
Henry D., 149 
Noah, 86 
Washington, 111 
Chard, Consider, 72 

Charlton, churches of, 102, 103 and note, 
151 and note, 300, 373 
development of, between 1800 and 
1831, 151 

1831 to 1861, 209 
first settlements in, 44 
list of justices of the peace of, 374 
list of supervisors of, 374 
list of town clerks of, 374 
settlements, schools and churches of, 

from 1783 to 1800, 100-103 
village, 373 

Industrial Farm, the, 297 
Chase, Dean, 107 

Samuel, 202 
Chatfield, Asa, 85. 156 
Child, Increase, 87 

Increase and William, 129 
Salmon, 119, 157, 165, 412-414; sketch 
of, 423 
Childs, Ephraim, Dr., 164 
Chrysler, Morgan H., 156 
Churchill, Arthur L., Dr., 450 
Clapp, Nathaniel. 88 
Clark, Billy J., Dr., 112 and note, 155, 
164, 443, 444 
Jephtha, 111 
John, 77, 91 
John, Dr., 136, 137, 139, 176, 188, 

294, 445 
Samuel, 107, 128; and children, 106 
William, 45, 90; and descendants, 

122; 164 
William V., 293 
Clemens, Peter, 87 
Clement. Henry S., 290 



Clement, Joel, 137 

William H., 390 
Cleveland, Oliver, 149 
Clifton Park, churches of, 115 and note 
158, 214, 375 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
158 
1831 to 1861, 313 

first settlements in, 46 

first town officers of, 376 

gazetteer of the town of, 375-377 

list of justices of the peace of, 377 

list of supervisors of, 376 

list of town clerks of, 376 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 1800, 114, 115 

villages and hamlets in, 375 
Clinch, Benjamin, 117, 381 
Clizbe, Jacob, 104 
Close, Gideon, 91 

Slaughter, 120 
Clothier, Ambrose, 45, 368 
Clow, Henry, 148 
Clute, Egbert T., 291 

Richard and (ieraidus, 91 
Cobb, David, 331 
Cole, Ambrose, 120 

Benjamin, 87 
Coleman, Thomas, 293 
Collamer, Anthony, son Thomas, and 
grandson, Collins, 86 

Daniel, 154 

Thomas and Daniel A., 153 
Collins, Dr., 109, 447 

Joshua, 187 
Comstock. Aaron, 77, 91 

Abijah. 415 

Adam, 88, 110 and note 

George p.. Dr., 450 

John E., 157 

Oliver C, 156 

Stephen, 120 

Theodore, 285 
Conde, Jesse. lOd 

Nehemiah, 104, 1.52 
Conkling, Gurdon, 211 
Conklingville, development of manufac- 
tures in, from 1861 to 1898, 376 
Connell, John C, 91, 92 
Connery, Samuel, 91 
Converse, Fred A., 364 
Cook, Charles H., 291 

Ephraim, 88 

James, 178 

James M., 196, 300 

Nathaniel, and family, 100 

Samuel, 144, 413 
Cooper, James, 111 



INDEX. 



18t 



Cooper, Nathaniel, 87 
Samuel, 87 
William, 87 
Copeland, William, 109 
Copp, Dr., 94 
Corey, Daniel, 157 
David, 164 

John A., iiOn, :!0G; sketch of, 433 
Corinth, churches of, 150 and note, 209, 
281, 368 

development of, between 1800 and 

1831, 150 
development of, from 1831 to 1861, 

208. 209 
development of manufactures in, 

from 1861 to 1898, 275 
first settlements in, 45 
gazetteer of the town of, 367-369 
list of supervisors of, 368 
schools of, 285 
settlements, schools and churches of, 

from 1783 to 1800. 109-111 
village, list of presidents of, 368 
Cornell, Job, and descendants, 104 
Coroners, list of, 463 
Cory, Charles H., 292 
Coulter, George, 41 
Counties, original, in the State, 1 
Countv buildings, first, 127 
clerks, list of, 462 
clerk's office, 293 
judges, list of, 462 
treasurers, list of, 463 
Court, Circuit, and Oyer and Terminer, 
first in the county, 412 
County, first sentence of death by 

the, 414 
of Common Pleas, first session of the, 

411 
house, burning of the first, 412 
dedication of the new, 415 
first courts held in the first, 412 
the present, 415 
the second, 413 
officers, first under the change of 
1847, 414 
Courts, changes in, by the Constitution 
of 1847, 414 
changes in, under the constitution of 

1894, 415 
the early, of the county, 410, 411 
Cowen, Esek. 119, 137, 149; sketch of, 
418, 419 

Patrick, 419 
Sidney J., 419 
& Gansevoort, 154 
Cowles, Benjamin, and children, 110 
Cox, John, 149 



["' 



Cox, Phoenix, 101 
Coyle, E. S., Dr., 454 
Cramer, Conrad, 39 . 

George, 95 

Jame's, 109 

Jeremiah, 115 

John, 144, 145, 171, 293; sketch ol, 
424 

lohn, 2d, 288 

Cran*e. John W., sketch of, 432 
Crandall, Abel, 366 
Craw, Joseph, Rev., 121 
Crawford, Daniel, 120 

Wallace, 137, 149 
Creal, C. K.. Dr., 4.50 

John W., 157 
Crombie, W. C. Dr., 453 
Cronkhite, Daniel, 118 
Crosby, Charles P., 284 
Cross, John, 135, 148 

Shubael, 92, 354 
Cuerdou, John, 91 
Cull, Rev. Father, 192 note 
Curtis, Pierson C, Dr., 454 

Warren, 285 

Zachariah and Henry, 98 
Cushman, John P., 177 

Dake, Charles, WiUiam, John and Ben- 
jamin, 381 
Danford, Elisha, 112 
Daniels, Nathaniel, 118 
Davenport, William II., 284 
Davey, William G., 857 
Davis, Edward, Rev., 186 

Eliud, 151 

family, the, 36 

George, 38, 95 

Henry, 87, 126, 144, 411 

Jabez, 82 

John, 68. 72, 144 

Peter and Richard, 90 

Richard, 77, 88, 91 

Richard, jr., 126, 127, 144, 411 

Robert O., 415 

Samuel, Dr., 164, 446 

William, 106, 149 
Davison, Charles M., 440 

family, the, 46 

Gideon W.. 176 
Day, churches of, 157, 218, 282, 384 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
157 
1881 to 1861. 212 

gazetteer of the town of, 883-385 

liamlets in, 384 

list of justices of the peace of, 385 



182 



INDEX. 



Day, list of supervisors of, 384 

list of town clerks of, 385 

settlements of, from 1783 to 1800, 123 
Day, Eliphaz, 157 and note 

Roswell. 154 

William W., 283 
Dayton, Daniel, 369 

David, and sons, 110 

James A., 285 
Deake, William, John, Benjamin, Charles 

and Charles, jr., 116, 117 
Dean, Dr., 94 

Jehial and Daniel, 153 
De Golia, James, 104 

Lucien, 210 
De Graff, John J.. 176 
Delaney, John, 285 
Delavan, Edward C, 306 
Deming, Isaac, 106. 379 
Demmon, Isaac, 117 
De Monts, John, 109, 372 
Denney brothers, the, 39 
Dennis, William A., 299 
Deputy superintendents of common 

schools, list of, 464 
Derby, T. N., 364 
Derbyshire, Daniel, 91 
Deremer, Jacob, 102 
De Ridder, John H.. 290, 291 

Killiaen, Gen., 88, 93, 164 
Deuell, Abraham, 90 

E. Valencourt, Dr., 450 

Jonathan, 111, 120, 368 

Silas, 93 
Deyoe, James, 41 
Dibble, Ebenezer, 107 

Orville B., 149 
Dickinson, Daniel, Col., 87 

Isaac, 87 

James, 87 

John D., 411 
Dillingham, John, 94 

Stephen H., 149 
Dillon, John C, 135, 187 

JohnT., 295 
Dimmick, Dr., 94 
Disbrow, Thomas, 104 
District attorneys, list of, 462 
Districts, division of, 124 
Di.x, John, 104 

John A., 349 
Dodge, Levi. 277 
Doe, Nicholas B., 148 

Walter, 114 
Donald, John, 91, 126, 411 
Doolittle, Henry, 154 

J. F.. Dr., 454 

Reuben, 107, 153 



Douglas, Benajah, 78, 337, 405 

Jonathan H., 145, 292 

Nathaniel, 126, 411 
Douglass, Curtis N., 349 

John, 94 
Dowd, Charles F., 296 
Downing, Samuel, 106 
Dows, Eleazer, 151 
Drake, Samuel, 187 
Dudley, William, 94 
Duel, Trustram, 122 
Dugan, James, 77, 91 
Duncan, John C.,292 
Dunham, Edward and Elijah, 366 

Ephraim, 42, 91 

Hezekiah, 38, 348 

Holton, 88 
Dunlap, J. J., Dr., 453 
Dunning, John, 165 

Michael, 43, 360 

Richard, Zadock and Moses, 153 

William, 87, 107 
Dunsbach Bridge Co., the, 298 
Dunston, R. E., 183 
Durkee, C. E., 298 

Pilgrim, and son, 104 
Duryea, Philip. Rev., 149, 155 

Early, Robert, 120 
Eaton, Alpheus, 87 
Eddy, Jeremiah, 111 

Samuel. 157 
Edinburgh, churches of, 100, 153 and 
note, 279 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
152 153 

1831 to 1861, 209, 210 

first settlements in, 45 

first town officers of, 380 

gazetteer of the town of, 379, 380 

hamlets in, 379 

list of supervisors of, 380 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 1800, 105, 106 
Edson, Adam, 91 

Dr., 447 
Edwards, Nathaniel, 111 and note 
Eggleston. Samuel, 15, 368 
Eldridge, Robert, 91, 115 
Elixman, T., 285 
Ellis. Chesselden, sketch of, 434 

Elijah, 116, 369 

Robert, 87; and children, 99; 128, 330 
Ellsworth, Ephraim C, 292 

Ephraim Elmer, Col., sketch of, 240- 
242 

George, 91 ; and descendants, 42 

Judiah, sketch of, 435 



INDEX. 



1S3 



Elraendorf. Peter E., 411 
Emerson, Broadstreet, Dudley and Jo- 
seph, 114 
Emery, Rowland, 88 
Emmott, James, 127 
Ensign, Datus, Rev., 140 

Ezekiel, 40, 86, 87 
Erie canal, the, 159-161 
Essex, James, 91 
Evans, Andrew, 91 
Evarts, David. 149, 153 
Examiners in Chancery, list of, 457 

Farlin, Dudley. 149 
Faulkner, Peter, 91 
Fay. Isaac, 104 

Fellows, John, and sons William, Ezra 
and Thomas, 85 
J. Frank, 364 
Ferguson, Peter, 90 
Field, Charles. 164 
Finch, Isaac, Dr., 164 

Jonathan, 122, 388; and descendants, 
121 
Finley, John Beekmara, 190 
Fish, George W., 164 

Pardon, 98 

Richard, 120 

William U, 141 
Fitch, Ebenezer, (Jiles and Maj. Jabez, 
119 

Edward, 149 

family, the, 117 
Fitchani. Charles E., 291 
Flanders, Jonathan, 369 
Flansburgh, Dirck, 91 

Nicholas, 123 
Flynn. John, 41, 91 
Foley. John 290, 312; sketch of, 437 
Follett. F. T., 293 
Fonda, Douw I., 146, 411 

Isaac, 87 

John. 348 

Nicholas, 411 
Force, William, 95 
Ford, John, 135, 136, 187 

John W., 278, 299 

Sanford, 82^ 

Sanborn, 337 
Fords, Nicholas, 91 
Fort, Daniel, 41 

Daniel F., 158 

Jacob. 91, 115 

Jacob, jr., 126 

Nicholas, 375 

Peter, 133 
Foster, George F., 309 

William, 165 



Fowler, Isaac, 196 

Joseph, 91 

William. 212 
Fradenburgh, Stephen, 213 
Free, Ezekiel, 91 

Freeman, Samuel, Dr., 164. 190, 196, 446 
French, Benjamin, 330; and sons, 97, 98 

David B., 349 

Winsor Brown, 296; sketch of, 438, 
439 
Frink, Henry, 83 

Isaac, 196 
Fuller, Calvin and William, 91 

Isaac. 388 
Fulmer, Johannes, 91 
Fursman, Edgar L., 312; sketch of, 435 

Gage, George, 200 
Jesse, 87 
Lewis, 305 
Galway. churches of, 104, 105, 152 and 
note, 209, 378 

development of, between 1800 and 
1831, 151, 152 
1831 to 1861, 209 
first settlements in, 45 
gazetteer of the town of, 377-379 
list of supervisors of, 378 
settlements, schools and churches of, 

from 1783 to 1800, 103-105 
villages and hamlets in, 378 
Gamble, James, 109 
Gansevoort. Herman, Gen., 108 

Peter, Gen., 108, 306 
Garbutt, Frank, Dr., 453 
Gardiner, Howell, 120 and note, 157 
Gardner, Egbert, 284 . 
Garnsey, Caroline, Mrs., 364 
David, 148 

Nathan, 91; and children, 115 
Nathan, jr., 148 
Garrett, Samuel R., 164 
Gates, William, 148 
Gaylor, Dr., 106, 447 
Gazetteer of towns— Ballston, 357-359 
Charlton, 373. 374 
Clifton Park, 375-377 
Corinth, 367-369 
Dav, 383-385 
Edinburgh, 379. 380 
Galway, 377-379 
Greenfield. 380-383 
Hadley, 369-371 
Ilalfmoon, 353-357 
Malta, 359-365 
Milton, 336-342 
Moreau. 365-367 
Northumberland, 371-373 



184 



INDEX. 



Gazetteer of towns — Providence, 388-390 
Saratoga. 347-350 
Saratoga Springs, 339-336 
Stillwater, 350-353 
Waterford, 343-347 
Wilton. 385-388 
Geer, Refine. 94 
Gere, Isaac, Col., 104, 413 
German, Dr., 90. 447 
Gibbs, Woodruff. 156 
Gibson, John, 413 
Gifford, John, 156. 157 
Gilbert, Cyrus, 3.54 

Elias, Rev,, 118, 120, 1.57 
Gershoni, 107 
Joseph, 116 
Gilchrist, Alexander, 101 

William, 101 
Gill, William, 87 
Gillett, Dr., 112 
Gleason, William, 86 
Gonzalez, Joseph, 44, 373 
(ioodrich, Jeremiah, 120 
Gordinier. Nicholas, 88 
Gordon, James, Gen., 33-35; capture of, 
by tories and Indians under Captain 
Munro, 67-71 ; 84. 88, 126, 128, 340, 358, 
411 

Kenneth, Capt. , 358; and son Joseph, 
102 
Gorsliue, William, 91 
(Jow. Frank F., Dr., 4.->5 
Granger, Eli, 149 

Henry, 149 
Grant, Charles S.. Dr., 449 

General, death of, at Mount Mc- 
Gregor, 310, 311 
Graves, Lewis, 120 - 
Gray, Simeon, 1.56 
Green, Elliot, 153 
James, 87, 149 
James, jr., 149 
John, Henry and Samuel, !)3 
Philip, 104 
William, 39 
Wilson, 104 
Greene, John C, 292 
Greenfield, churches of, 120 and note, 
157. 212, 282, 3S1 
development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
156, 157 
1831 to 1861, 212 
gazetteer of the town of, 380-383 
list of justices of the peace of, 382'" 
list of supervisors of, 382 • 
list of town clerks of, 382 
settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 180(1, 116-121 



Greenfield, villages and hamlets in, 381 

Temperance Society, 157 
Gregory, Benjamin, 83 

Dr., 448 

Matthew, 91 
GrifHn, William, Rev.. 361. 364, 365 
Grinnell, Benjamin, 83, 120 
Grippin, William, 110 
Griswold, George, 177 
Groat, Cornelius, Jesse and Simeon, 91 
Groom, James, 115 

Peter, William and James, 91 
Gunther, Herman W., 299 

Hadley, churches of, 155 and note, 211, 
282, 369 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
155 

1831 to 1861, 211 
gazetteer of the town of, 369-371 
list of justices of the peace of, 370 
list of supervisors of, 370 
list of town clerks of, 370 
settlements and schools of, from 1783 

to 1800, 116 
villages and hamlets in, 369 
Hagedoru, Jonathan, 122 
Hagerman, Adrian, 412 
Haggertv. Anthony, 116, 381 
Haight, H. Vassar', 274 
Samuel, 274, 341 
Sylvanus, Rev., 153 
Theodore S., 274 
William, 178 
Hale, Allen, Capt., 120 
Daniel, jr., 89 
H. P., 187 
Half moon, churches of, 92, 147 and note, 
203, 281, 354, 355 

development of, between 1800 and 

1831, 147, 148 
first settlements in, 41-43 
gazetteer of the town of, 353-357 
hamlets in, 355 

list of justices of the peace of, 3.5C 
list of supervisors of, 356 
list of town clerks of. 356 
settlements, schools and churches of 
from 1783 to 1800, 89-92 
Hall, Benjamin, 148 
Daniel, 87 
Jacob, 91 
John. 292 

Thomas and John B., 1.53 
William H. Dr., 449 
Hallibart, Ezra, 126, 411 
Hamilton, John, 91 

Theodore F., 183, 296, 312, 437 



INDEX. 



185 



Hamlin, Daniel, and sons, 113 
Hammond, Charles D., 363, 365 

John, 109 

J. A., Dr., 455 
Hanna, W. T. C, Rev., 310 
Hannion, Garrett, 91 
Hanson, Henry B., 190 
Harris, Arnold, ^93, 309 

Ezekiel, 120 

John E., 120, 150 

Justus, 153 

Newton C, Dr., 453 

William H., 157 

William P., 355 
Harslia, Georoe W. and Matthew, 150 

Hugh, 87 
Hart, Richard P., 177 

Jeremiah, 41 
Hartshorn, E. A., 304 
Hartwell, Thomas, 109 
Harvey, Adelbert J., 392 

George F., 277 
V Haskins, Ira, 150 

Hathorn. Henry H., 185, 187, 378 
Haviland, James, 122 
Hawley, Amos, 94, 155, 165 

Gideon, 101 

Gideon, jr., sketch of, 427 

Ichabod, 112 

John S., 297 
Hay, William, sketch of, 431 
Hayes, James. 104. 378 
Hays, John. 103 
Haywood, Xenophon, 283 
Hazard, Samuel J., 77 
Hegeman. Adrian, 91, 115 

J.. 309 . 
Henderson, Dr., 448 
Hendrick, King, 36 
Hendricks. Peter, 120 
Henning, John L., 439 
Henry, John V., 411 
Herrick, David. 104 

Roswell, 164 
Hewitt, Reuben, 79 

Walter, 118 
Hickok, A. C. 385 

Ezra. 32. 76 
Hicks, Daniel, 156, 164 

Jacob, 94 

Samuel, 91 
■, Hides, Samuel, 196 

Higby, John, and son, 68, 72 
Higgins, John, 383 

Thomas and Enoch, 87 
Hill, Nicholas, sketch of, 425 
Hillman, Joseph, 361, 363, 365 
Ilillson, James, 87 



Hilton family, the, 37 

Richard, 116. 369 
Hinckley, Nathan, 114 
Hinman, John, 104. 378 

Nathan. 103 

Willis U., 384 
Hitchcock, Zina, 88 
Hoag, Franklin, 430 
Hodges, Jonathan and Claudius, 110 
Hodgman, Amos, 85, 87, 146 

Leonard, 88 
Hoffman, Charles, 91 
Holbrook, Eli, 294 

Samuel, 294 
Holmes, Edgar, 392 

Henry, 300 

John, 101, 373 

Jotham, 135, 137 
Holland, Ma^or, 163 
Holliday, Hamilton, Dr., 454 
Hollister, A. M., 385 

Josiab, 68 
Holroyd, William, 399, 345 

James, 201 
Homoeopathic Me^dical Society of Sara- 
toga County, 399 

of Saratoga Springs, 443 
Hooker, Gilbert, 87 
Hooper, Ezra, 113 
Horton, Ezekiel, 358 

James W., 391 

John W., 393 
Houghton, James W., 312, 415, 416, 439 

Nathaniel M., Dr., 451 
House, John, 145, 177 

John C. , 105 
Howe, Isaac, 30 
Howland, Edgar O., 363 

Gardner, 351 

Powell, 148 

William L., 293 
Iloyt, Gideon, 130 

Jonathan, 118 
Hubbard, Oliver, 112 
Ilubbell, Jabez, 36 
Hulbert, Charles H., 290 

Irenaeus, 112 

John C, sketch of , 433 

Luther, 1.54 
Hume. Robert and Alison, 101 
Hun, Abraham, 411 
Hunt, Thomas, 85, 87 
Hunter, lohn, 43, 85, 87, 360 

Robert. 43, 153 

Samuel, 154 
Huntington, Samuel G., sketch of, 427 

Ide, Benjamin, 368; and children, 110 



186 



INDEX. 



Ide, Charles P., 364 

William. Thomas and Ebenezer, 150 
Incorporated companies, list of, 471^75 
Indian grant of lands, 18-20 
Indians, characteristics of the, 10, 17 

the Iroquois, 12-16 

the Mohawk, 17, 18 

tradition of the origin of the Five 
Nations of, 14, 15 
Ingham, Benjamin and Rufus, 117 
Inlay, Erwin J., Dr.. 451 
Ireland, Stephen, 107 
Irish, Martin and Ashbel, 93 

Jackson, George I., 285 

John, 285 
James, JohnW., 213 

William, 170 
Jeffords, Thomas, 95 
Jenkins, Benjamin, 94 

Benjamin K.,310, 270 

John, 155 
Jennings, Edmund, and son Joseph, 35 

Justus, 337 
Jewell, Asa, William and Staats, 98 
Johnson, Andrew, 155 

Arthur W., Dr., 150, 447, 452 

B. W., Dr., 448 

Charles, 283 

Darius, Dr.. 165 

David, 123,384 

Dr., 447 

(;. Fordyce, 448 

lanthus, G., Dr., 156, 157. 448 

John, 157 

J. C, 141 

Hotter, 150 

William, Sir, 391 
Johnston, Peter. 113 
Jones, David, 37 

David and Jonathan, treachery of, 
51 

family, the, 51 

Frank, 183 

Hiro, 291 

James, 91, 115 

Joshua, 83 

Mary I., Mrs., 188 
Jordan, Thomas, 48, 348 
Judges of Common Pleas, Fir.st, list of, 

455 
Justices of the peace appointed justices 
of Common Pleas, list of, 455 

of the peace by appointment, list of, 
457-461 

of the peace by election, list of, 401, 
462 

of the peace for Sessions, list of, 456 



Kavanaugh, L. and C. II. , 278 
Kayaderosseras Patent, the, 89 
Keefer, C. W., Dr., 284 
Keeler, Isaac, 77 

Joel, 83 

Nathaniel, 104 
Kelley, John, 190 
Kellogg, Abel A., 414 

Asa, 104 

Eliphalet, 120, 411 

Ezra, 153 

Seth, 121, 388 
Kelly, James, 45 

William, 45, 378 
Kendrick, John, 114 
Kennedy, George and Thomas, 08, 69 

Nancy M., Mrs., 304 

Robert, 148 

RosciusR., 165, 213, 214 
Kenney, Lawrence, Dr., 455 
Kent, Moses, 411 
Ketchum, Henrv, 144, 411 

Hezekiah, 91, 120, 148 

Joel, and sons Nathaniel and Rich- 
ard, 85; 87 

Joseph, 144 
Kilmer, Chauncey, 309, 341 
King. Daniel B.. 200 

John. 120 

John Fuller. 142 

Jonas. 138 

J. M., 283 

Philip, 115 

Stephen, 138, 380 ' 

Stephen and Ebenezer, 113 

William, 113 

William and Philip, 91 
Kirby, Seth, and descendants, 102 
Kirtland, John W., 144 
Knapp, Obadiah, 92 

Knickerbacker, John, 144, 145, 177, 379, 
392, 293, 298 

T. A.. 279 
Knickerbocker. Walter, 94 
Knowlton, John, 91, 115 

La Dow, D. E.. 384 
Laing, John, 113, 386 
Lamb, David T.. 393 

J. E.. 292 
L'Amoreaux. Jesse S.. 300. 309, 312; 

sketch of. 433 
Land patents of the county, 5-9 
Landus. Ebenezer. 91 
Laiidoti, Judson S., 415 

Luther, 107 

Moses, 154 
Langner, G. M., 279 



INDEX. 



187 



Langvvorthy. Elisha P.. Rev., 100 note 

Lyman B. , 164 

William A., 176, 294 
Lansing, Uirck C, Rev., i:i9, 146, 165 

John I. and Gerrit, Dl 
Larkin, Amos, 82 
La Rue, Joseph. 45, 100, 37;i 

Matthew, 151 
Latham, Clarence E. , 150 

Olney. 120 
Lathrop, Mataliah. jr., 154 
Lawrence, Eben S. , Dr., 454 

H. H., 395 

H. W., Dr., 454 

Ira. 149, 348 

John, 414 

William C, Dr., 164 
Lawtoii, Ceurge P., 298 
Leake, John S., 190,290 
Lee, Elias W. and John J., 83 

Joel, 178 

John J., 196 

John, and .sons Joel, Elias, Noah, and 
daughters, Ruth and Abigail. 82 

Martin, 309 
Leet, Luther, 127 

Leggett, Isaac and Gabriel, 38, 86, 95 
Leland, Charles, 186 

Charles E., 188 

Warren, 185, 186 
Lendrum, John, 151 
Lent, C. E..183 

Moses, 91 
Leonard. Robert, 82 
Lester, Charles C. , 29fi 

Charles S., 165. 290, 293, 307; sketch 
of, 433 

J. Willard. 298 
Letcher, Cornelius, 348 
Lewis, Arnold, 104 

Morgan, 1.54 

Moses, 112 

Nathan, 135-137, 139 

Reed, 109 

Samuel. 108 and note 
Leversie, Anthony, 91 
Levins, Joseph, 87 
Libby, James L., 276 
Lincoln. H. M., Dr., 455 
Lindsey. Elias, 111 
Littlefield, Thomas S., Dr., 112. 164 
Livingston, Abraham, 127. 412 

Richard M., 94, 149, 414 

Richard W., 348 
Looker, Othniel, 104 
Lord, Hezekiah, 87 
Lossing, Jonathan. 90 
Loveless, John, 155 



Lovett, John, 411 

Low, James and Thomas, 102 

Nicholas, 78, 132, 337, 413 

Samuel, 146 
Luckey, Samuel, Rev., 190 note 
Lusk, Stephen. 88 
Luther, Gideon, 82 

McBride, Daniel, John and James, 88 

John, 87 
McCarthy, Peter, 279 
McCartney, William, 45 
McCarty, John, 41 
McClary, Dr., 448 
McClelland, John, 45, 127 
McCoun, Townsend, 177 
McCrea, Daniel, 51 

family, the, 44, 51 

James, 413, 414 

James, William and Samuel, 35 

Jeannie, murder of, 51, 52 

John, 51 
McCreedy, Charles O., 309 

(Jeorge W., 309 

James, 94, 108 and note 
McDonald. Michael and Nicholas, 33, 357 

Robert. 139, 331 

WiUiam, 144 
McDonough, B. J., Rev., 197 
McEwen, 'Robert C, Dr., 451 
MctJregor, James and William, 386 

James, William, John and Alex- 
ander, 36 

James and William, and their fam- 
ilies, 113 

Miller, 386 

Robert, 109 
McHarg, John, 45. 378 
McKean, James B.. 165, 216; sketch of, 

432 
McKindley, John and Moses, 45 
McKinney. Robert. 101 
McKnight. John, 45, 373 
McLaren, Daniel, 135 
McMaster, Gilbert, Rev., 165 
McMartin, John, 104 
.McNair, Antoine de R. , 296 
McNeil, Archibald, 44, 94. 371 
McOmber, Philip H., 196 
.McQuade, notable trial of, at Ballston 

Spa, 312 
McRae, Hector A., 415 
McWilliams, John, 101 
Mabee, Douglass W., 182 
Mahawney, John, 44 
Mairs, James, Rev., 103, 139, 151, 165, 

378 
Major, John and James, 45, 378 



188 



INDEX. 



Mallery, Charles B., Dr., 156, 455 
Malta, churches of, 107 and note, 1.54, 210 

development of, between 1800 to 
1831, 153, 154 
1831 to 1861, 310 

first settlements in, 43 

first town officers of, 360 

list of supervisors of, 360 

Round Lake in, 360-365 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 1800, 106, 107 
Mann, Francis Norton, sketch of, 428 

Henry A., 291 

Isaac, 39, 351 

James, and children Electa, James 
and Joseph, 83 

Joel, and sons Rodolphus, Jeremiah, 
Joel and Hiram, S3 
Manning, John A., 298, 299 
Manufactures, development of, from 

1861 to 1898, 273-280 
Marshall, Abraham, 38, 165, 348 

Simeon, 87 
Martm, Henry, 112 
Marvin, Dennis, 153 

James M., Gen., 136, 1.S7, 189, 190, 
298, 306 

Langdon, 448 

Thomas J., 187, 189; sketch of, 428 

William, 43, 154 
Massey, Charles. 309 
Masters in Chancery, list of, 456 
Mather, Joseph, 152 
Matthews, Samuel, 331 
Mattison, Reuben, 103 
Maxwell, David, 44, 373 

Dr., 448 
Maybe w, C. W., 291 
Meachem, Ashbel, 87, 89 
Mead, William, 86, 351 

William, Dr., 102 
Mechanicville village, 354, 355 

development of, from 1831 to 1861, 
202-204 

development of manufactures in, 
from 1861 to 1898, 276 

fire department, 296 

in 1825, as described by A. E. More- 
house, 147 

lists of chairmen of trustees and 
presidents of the village of, 355 

schools of, 284 

Mercury, the, 289 
Medbery, Abner, 156, 157 

Hiram, 156 

Nathan, 120, 1,56 

R. M. , 292 

Stephen C, 291, 309, 415 



Medical practice in early days, 440, 441 
Medical Society, County, organization 
and early members of the, 164 
of Saratoga Springs, 443 
Meehan, Wharton, 298 
Meeker, James, l44 
Members of Assembly, list of, 466-470 
Merrill, Henry W., 436 

James, 164, 413 
Metcalf, Henry, 86 

John, 109, 154 

William, 154 
Middlebrook, Abraham, 164 

Hiram, 164 

Hezekiah, 35, 338 
Miles, Ehsha, 94, 164 
Military rolls, early. 165-175 
Millard, Barzillai, 1.54 

Ebenezer, 107 

Jehoida, jr., and Josiah, 87 
Miller, Elisha, Dr., 35, 446 

Jacob, 90 

John, 158 

John B., 148 

Joshua, Christopher and Jt.cob, 91 
Milli.a;an, James and Robert, 94 

James C, 149 

Robert and James, 114 
Milliken, Amos, 87 
Milton, Ballston Spa village in, 338-?40 

churches of, 84 and note, 208, 338 

development of, from 1831 to 1861, 
207 

first settlements in, 47 

gazetteer of the town of, 336-342 

list of justices of the peace of, 342 

list of police justices of, 342 

list of supervisors of, 341 

list of town clerks of. 341 

villages and hamlets in, 340 
Mingay, James, 296 

Richard, jr., 296 
Mineral springs, discovery and develop- 
ment of, 390-393 

distinguished visitors at the, 392 
Mitchell, Charles L., 278, 279, 299 

Dr., 448 

John, 309 

Joseph, 120 

William J., 299 
Mix, Benjamin, 77, 91, 148, 158 
Moe, Abraham, 115, 413 
Montgomery, J. J., Dr., 454 
Moon, Benajah, 104 
Moore, George R., 292 

Gide(m, 127 

Deverett, Dr., 309, 446 

Reuben, 87 



INDEX. 



189 



More, Gideon, 412 

Moreau, churches of, 113 and note, 212, 
366 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
155 
1831 to 1861, 211 

first settlements in, 36, 37 

first town officers of, 366 

gazetteer of the town of, 365-367 

list of supervisors of, 367 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 17S3 to 1800, 111-113 

villages and hamlets in, 366 

and Northumberland Temperance 
Society. 155 
Morehouse, Gershom, 116, 117, 381 

Gould, 153 

Joseph 35 
Morey, Jonathan, 83, 85, 86 

Thomas, 85, 86. 146 
Morgan, Daniel, 92 

Daniel, jr., 14!) 

Gideon, 96 

Jesse, 137 
Morris, William, 87 
Morse, Elisha. 300 

Joshua, 300 

Rufus, 115 

William H., 310 
Mosher, Ma.\on, Rev., 153 

Thomas and Joseph, 91 

William, 204, 251 

Zebedee, 111 
Mosier, Joseph, 91 
Mott. James. 149 

Jesse, 92 

John R., 149 

John O., sketch of, 433 

Zebulon, 87, 90 
Munger, Calvin, 187 

Philip, 88 

Philip, Joseph and Benjamin, 85 
Munro, John, 102 

Munroe, Captain, tory, attack by, on 
Ballston, 66-70 

Captain, fiendish order of, 68 

Hugh, 43, 371 
Munson, E. G., 278 

Stephen, 283 
Murder trial, first, 413 
Murphy, Allen, 135 
Murray, Byron J., Dr., 451 

Daniel, 283 

James, 91 
Myers, Isaac, 87 

Nash, Ezra, 165 

John. Azor, Samuel and Eliakim, 81 



Nash, Samuel. 73 

Stephen P., sketch of, 430 
Neally, Matthew, 91 
Neil, George, 299 
Neilson, John, 40, 88 

W. B.. 284, 293 
Newell, Hiram, 390 
Newland, Ephraim, 145, 204, 351 

Henry, 292, 298 

Joseph, 45 

Royal, Israel and Joseph, 88 
Newman, James, P., Rev., 363 
Newspaper, the first, 129 
Newspapers, first, in Waterford, 141 

of the county, 280-290 
Nims, Silas, 111 
Niskayuna, list of residents of, in 1723, 

from census roll, 40 
Noblit, John, 183 
Northrup, Abraham, 101 

Eli, 102 
Northumberland, churches of, 154, 211, 
373 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
154 
1831 to 1801, 211 

first settlements in, 43 

gazetteer of the town of, 371-373 

list of supervisors of^372 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 1800, 107-109 

villages and hamlets in. 373 
Norton, Samuel, 43; and children, 96; 331 
Nott, Eliphalet, Dr., 163 

Oakley, Thomas J., 413 
O'Connor, Thomas, 299 
Odell, William T., 435 
Olcott. Amo.s. 133 
Olds, Peter, 87 
Oliphant, Duncan, 77 
Olmstead, James, 149 

Jonas, 155 

Noah, 107 

Zalmon, 153 
Oluey, A. R., Rev., 415 

Stephen, 15»l 
One Hundred and Twenty-second Com- 
pany, the, 328. 329 
Orcutt, Adelbert B., 292 
Organ, Michael. 278, 379 
Ormsby, C. C, 378, 279, 299 

Isaac C, 435 
Ostrom, Lsaac, 114, 386 
Ostrander, Jacobus, 77, 91 
Otis, Ephraim Dr., 87, 447 
Ouderkirk, Abraham I., 92 

Oldert, 41 



190 



INDEX. 



Owen, Matthew, 
Silas, 364 



157 



Pack, Matthew, 284 
Packer, Joseph H., 202 
Paine, A. B., 18:3 

John, 177 
Palmer, Ashbel, 87 

Beriah, 36, 126. 12'!', 150, 358, 411 

Ehas, 86, 136. 137, 411 

F. A., Dr., 453 

George, 39, 65 

Jared, 109, 138 

John, Rev., 88 

Joseph, 95 

Matthew, 115 

Thomas, 163, 176 

Wait, 104 

W. R., 292 
Parent, Samuel, 102 
Parker, Jehial, 88 
Parkinson. William J.. 310 
Parkman, Frederick, 111, 157 

Truman E., 156, 157 
Parks, Elijah, and sons, 36; 366 

Herman B., 285 

Jehial, 48 
Parsons, Hosea, Rev., 157 

William and Abin, 87 
Partridge, James and Amy, 379 

James, and children, 105 
Patchen, Thaddeus, 83 
Patchin, Jabez, 08 

Samuel, 73 
Patrick family, the, 86 

Je.sse, 87 

John W., 146 

Robert, Dr., 87 

William. 86, 87, 164, 447 
Patterson, Elnathan, 149 

Daniel, 348 

Sherman, 38 
Paul, Henry, 384 

Richard, 104, 378 
Payn, Charles H., 185 
Payne, Isaac B., 109, 165 

Isaac B., Stephen and Nathan, 44 
Pearce, Jacobus, 91 
Pearsall, Samuel J., Dr., 452 
Peck, Abijah. Rev., 115, 165 

Amos, 98, .330 

Benjamin, 83 

George, 330 

Joseph, 91 

Nathan, 148 
Peckham, A. G., Dr., 455 
Peebles, Elizabeth, 91 

Hugh, 148 



Pelletreau, Charles, Rev., 416 
Pemberton, Hubbard, 88 
Penfield, Jeremiah, 104 
Perkins, Oliver, 93 
Perry, George B., 293 

Reuben, 149 

Rowland, and sons, 36; 386 
Peters, Elias H., 439 

Richard, 115 
Peterson, Thomas, .87 
Pettit, John, 77, 118 and note 

Jonathan, 94 
Phelps, Israel, 1.53 
Phillips, Benjamm, 95. 113, 386 
Philo, Ashbel, 148 

Nehemiah G., 148 
Pierce, Charles W., 362 

Dr., 94 

William, 178 
Pierson, Jeremiah, 163 

Paul, and son, 68, G9 
Pike, L. B., 440 
Pinkerton, Robert, 278 
Pitkin, E. Darwin, 188 

Samuel, Dr., 164 
Pitts, C. H.. 285 

Pixley, Francis, Dr., 104, 164, 447 
Place, Enoch, 114 

James, 149 
Piatt, Jonas, 414 
Plumb, Amariah, 86 
Politics in 1823. 150 
Pond, Alembert, 436 
Porter, Asahel, 119 and note, 156, 313 

Elijah, Dr., 164 

John K., sketch of, 439 

Joshua, 331 

Levi, 210 

William L., 399 
Potter, Asahel, 112 

Delcour S., 307 

Joseph, 91 

Paulinus, 112 

Restcome, 104 
Powell, Elisha, 83, 1.S9, 165, 413 

M. C, 283 
PowelLs, Grant, Dr., 164 
Powers, Albert W., 298 

David, 1.54 

Edward F., 298 

Joseph A. , 298 

J. D., 349 

Lemuel, 87 
Pratt, Silas J., 383 
Prentiss, Morgan L., 375 
Presidential electors, first, 128 
Price, Nehemiah, 150 
Prior, John, 413, 414 



INDEX. 



191 



Providence, churches of, 133, 314, 389 

first town officers of, 389 

gazetteer of the town of, 388-390 

hamlets in, 388 

hst of justices of the peace of, 390 

list of supervisors of, 389 

list of town clerks of, 389 

settlements and churches of, from 
1783 to 1800, 121, 132 
1831 to 1861, 214 
Pulling, Josiah, Dr., 164, 448 
Purdy, Gilbert, 348 
Purqua, John, 111 and note 
Putnam, Abel, jr., 291 

Alexander, 188 

Asaph, 94 

George R., 185 

Gideon, 134, 135 and note, 137, 139, 
18.5, 331, 394 

John Risley, 415; sketch of, 420-432 

Rockwell, 137, 149, 176, 185, 294,331 

Washington, 185, 294 

William L., 157 
Pynes, John H., 278, 279, 299 

Quackenbush, Edwin, 416, 437 
Quince, John, 91 

Railroads in the county, 176-184 
Ramsdell, Jonathan, 330 
Randall, Hathaway, 110 

Samuel, 105, 379 
Ranney, Hezekiah, 106 
Raymond, Nathan, 35 
Read, Joseph. 148 
Rebellion, list of those who served in the 

war of the, 249-273 
Reed, Jonathan, 87 

Samuel, 83 
Reeves, William, 91 

Regiment, Thirtieth, history of the, 231- 
233 

roster of officers of the, 246-248 
Seventy-seventh, history of the, 217. 
231 

roster of officers of the, 342-346 
One Hundred and Fifteenth, his- 
tory of the, 237 
Second Veteran Cavalry, roster of 

the, 234-237 
Second Provisional, in the Spanish 
war, history of the, 319-324 
Regiments and organizations, various, 

containing Saratoga men, 233-240 
Reid, Albert J., 309 
Remington, Zeno, 149 
Representatives in Congress, list of, 465 
Reubottom, John, 87 



Rexford, Edward, 91, 375; and children, 

114 
Reynolds, David, 94 

Henry, Dr., 109, 165, 448 

Isaac, and .Sons, 117; 381 

Joel. 118, 381 

Joseph. 42 

Samuel, 14S 

Tabor B., Dr., 396, 447; sketch of. 
448, 449 
Rhoades, John, 43 
Rice, Julius H., 276 

Ward, 144 
Rich, Lynn R., 299 
Richards, S. H., 290 
Rickard, S. A., 377 
Riddell, (Jeorge, 156 
Risley, Benjamin. 134, 331 
Robinson, Charles, 385 

Peter, Pcleg, Sanford, Giles and 
Benjamin, 118 

Rodman H., Rev., 365 
Koblcs, Hugh, 88 
Rockwell, Jeremy, 155, 156, 165 

Jonah, 122 

Joseph, 87, 107 
Rockwood, Nash, 440 

William T., 290 
Rogers, Ammi, Rev., 79, 84 

Benjamin, S8 

Charles D., 364 

George, 284, 293 

H. C, 279 

Jedediah, 91 

John, 93, 100, 373 

John D.. Capt., 305 

Lewis. 104 

Philip and Jacob, 87 

Samuel, 87, 123 

Thomas, Gen., Ill 
Romeyn, Thomas, Rev., 158 
Rood, Edward A., 156 
Roods, S. M.. Dr., 454 
Root, Frederick S , 430 

Thomas, 116, 381 
Rose, Israel, 120 
Ross, Joseph B. , 285 
Rosekrans, Benjamin, 42, 90. 128 
Round Lake Association, 360-365 
Rowe, Joseph, 87 
Rowland, H. R., 341 
Rowley, John, 88 
Royal, T. Cook. Dr., 454 
Rumsey, Captain, 73 

David, 107 
Rundle, John, 284 
Russell, Alexander, 164 

Alonzo, 157 



192 



INDEX. 



Russell, Ebenezer, 88 

Sabin, Lemuel, Dr., 90, 447, 448 
Sackrider, Christian, 86 
St. John family, the, 117 
Holly, 366 

John, Capt., 119, 156, 284 
St. John's Lodge and Chapter, F. & A. 

M., 1.56, 1.57 
Saratoga Athenajum and School of De- 
sign, 296 
battles of, 55-64 
Club, the, 298 
Saratoga (town), churches of, 95 and 
note, 96 and note, 149, 206 and note 
development of, between 1830 and 

1831, 148-1.50 
first settlements in, 37-39 
gazetteer of the town of, 347-350 
list of the supervisors of the town of, 

350 
settlements, schools and churches of, 

from 1783 to 1800, 92-96 
villages and hamlets in the town of, 
349 
Saratoga county, battles of the French 
and English war in, 25-30 

canals and railroads of, 9, 10 
condition of, at the close of the 

Revolution, 75 
division of, into districts, 10 
erection of, 125, 126 
geography and topography of, 

1. 2 
geology of, 4, 5 

"in the war with Spain, 313-329 
lakes of, 4 
land patents of, 5-9 
mountains of, 2 
organization of, 1 
organization of the towns of, 11, 

12 
rivers of, 3 

settlements in, prior to the Rev- 
olution, 30-47 
the first courts of, 126 
towns of, 9 
Saratoga County Agricultural Society, 
214, 215 

Bible Society, organization of, 

139, 165 
Medical Society, 164, 165, 441- 
443 
Eagle, the, 289 

Monument Association, 305-309 
origin of the name of, 9 
Patent, the, 6. 7 

from the Indians, 18-20 



Saratoga Springs, banks of, 333 

churches of, 99 and note, 136 and 
note, 190, 191 and note, 280, 281, 
332 

development of, from 1800 to 1881, 
134-140 

development of, from 18:S1 to 1861, 
184-194 

development of manufactures in, 
from 1861 to 1898. 277 

fire department, 294-295 

fires in, 294, 295 

first settlements in, 42 

fir.->t town officers of, 334 

lloral fetes of, 290 

gazetteer of the town of. 329-336 

hotels of, building of the first large, 
135, 136 

hotels of, 185-188 

Knights of Pythias of, 300 

list of the justices of the peace of, 
335 

list of the police justices of, 336 

list of the supervisors of, 334 

list of the town clerks of, 835 

list of the town collectors and re- 
ceivers of taxes of, 336 

list of village clerks of, 332 

list of village presidents of, 331 

mineral springs at, .393-404 

Masonry in, 138, 193 

newspapers of, 334 

private schools of, 192 

Rebekah Degree lodge of, 300 

secret societies of, 333 

settlements, schools, churches and 
hotels of, from 1783 to 1800, 96-99 

waterworks, 188, 189, 293 
Saratoga Sun, the, 289 
Saratogian, the, 288 
Sault, Sidney D., 278 
Sax, George, 156 

Rensselaer. 156, 157 
Sa.\e, William A., 299 
Sayles, Ahab, 87 

Mordecai, 87 

Stephen and Sylvanus, 87 
Schermerhorn Aaron, 101 
School commissioners, list of, 464 
Schouten, Dirck, 42, 331 
Schuyler family, the, 39 

Ilarmanus. 40. 351 

John, Capt., 25 

John Bradstreet, 127, 128 

Peter, Major, 25. 37, 88, 348, 351 

Philip, Gen., attempt to capture, 92, 
93 
efforts of, against Burgoyne, 50 



INDEX. 



193 



Schuyler, Philip, Gen., superseded by 
General Gates. 54; 138. 149, 164, 205, 
391, 392 

Philip J., 146, 204 

Philip Peter, 46 

Rensselaer, 145 
Schuylerville village, 348 

development of, from 1831 to 1861, 
205-207 

development of manufactures in. 
from 1861 to 1898, 279 

Steamboat Co., the. 298 
Scidmore. Solomon and John, 87 
Scofield. Gideon W., 150 
Scott, Alexander H., 117 

George, and descendants, 33 

(ieorge. murderous attack upon, 68; 
358 

George Gordon, 300, 302; sketch of, 
431 

Ira, 76, 91, 148 

James, 77, 91 

lames L., 309 

John, 99 

Lewis, 1.56 

Moses, 76, 91, 144 

William, 94, 117, 293, 381 
Scouton. Andrew, 91 
Scribner, Alford, 1.53 

Zaccheus, and son Thaddeus, 35 
Seaman, Stephen S. , 187, 413 
Searing, William M., 436 
Sears, Reuben. Rev.. 139, 165 

Sunderland. 36 
See, Charles P., 295 
Seeley. John. 149 

Semi-centennial celebrations. 162-164 
Settlers of Waterford, early Dutch, list 

of the, 31, 32 
Seymour, Jared, 154 

Jesse, Dr., 164 

Nathaniel, 117 

William, 85, 146 

William T., 283, 414 
Shackelford. John W., 296 
Shadwick. Klias J., 295 
Shankland, Thomas. 132. 388 
Sharp. Lester A., 290 
Shaw. Dr.. 90, 447 

James, 91 
Shearer, Joseph, 83 
Shepherd, Augustine W., 415, 436 

David, 95 

Daniel, 436 

John C, 398, 299 
Sheppard, Nathan, Prof., 29G 
Sherer, J. D., Dr.. 453 
Sheriffs, list of. 462 



Sherman. Caleb, 117 

F. A.. Dr.. 454 

Frank J.. Dr., 4.54 

Henry F.. 2d. 149 

Henry T., 149 

M. B., 364 
Sherwood, Amos. 103 

James. 151 
Shine. James H., 379 
Shipman, Timothy, 43, 87 
Shoudy, Joseph A., 436 
Shumway, Danforth. 154 
Siblev, Joseph, 91 
Sill, Francis, 93 
Sleezer, Martin, 122, 388 
Slosson, John, 91 
Smith, Ben B. , 292 

Dudley, 104, 378 

Dr., 94 

Ebenezer. 104 

Eli, 104 

Elnathan. 148 

F. A., Dr.. 455 

Franklin W., 296 

Isaac, 101 

James W., 149 

Jeremiah, 102, 151 

Joel, 152 

John, 46 

John and Elijah, 120 

Lewis, 354 

Lewis E.. 302, 276 

Luman B., 136 

Munson, 148 

Reuben, 86. 87 

Samuel, 43, 360 

Samuel. Rev., 95 

Simeon, Rev., 103, 105, 378 

Stephen. 196 

Thomas. 38 

Timothy and Christian, 91 

Warren. 86, 87 

William W., 384. 393 
Snyder, Philip, Adam and Daniel, 188 
Soldiers' and sailors' monument, dedica- 
tion of, at Ballston Spa, 309, 310 
Soule, Joseph, 149 

Tibbett. 38. 95 
South Glens Falls, development of man- 
ufactures in, from 1861 to 1898, 275 

schools of, 285 
Southard, Isaac, and sons, 115 
Sowl, Nathaniel, 122 
Spanish war, the county in the, 313-829 
individuals who served in various 

capacities in the, 326, 327 
patriotism at home during the, 
327 



194 



INDEX. 



Spaulding, Charles W., 156 
Speir, Robert, 36 
Spinner, Elnathan, 149 
Sprague. Andrew, 87 

Ebenezer, 36, 68, 69 

Jordan, 106 
Spring, Artesian Lithia, 406 

Carlsbad, 399 

Champion, 397 

Columbian, 394 

Congress 398 

Empire, 395 

Excelsior, 394 

Franklin (Hill's), 407 

Geyser, the, 396 

Hathorn, 397 

High Rock, 393 

Kissengen, 399 

Lincoln, 401 

Magnetic, 403 

Peerless, 403 

Public (Old Iron), 408 

Putnam, 401 

Roval, 400 

Sans Souci, 408 

Star, 399 

Union, 396 

Vichy, 398 

Victoria. 403 

Washington, 402 

Washington Lithia, 407 

West's, 409 

While Sulphur, 409 
Springs, mineral, discovery and develop- 
ment of. 390-393 
Stafford, Amos, 330, and children, 98 
Stark, Abijah, 379; and family, 105 

John, Gen., at the battle of Ben- 
nington, 53 
Starkweather, Avery, 1.52 
State officers, from the county, list of, 465 

senators from the county, list of, 465 
Stearns, John. Dr., 164 
Steele, A. M., 283 

John H., 137, 149, 164, 176, 331. 444 
Steenburgh, Jacob, 91 • 

Stein, James, 91 
Stephens, Joseph. 87 
Stevens, Frederick H., Dr., 450 

John Austin, 301, 302 
Stevenson, James, 176 
Stewart, Alexander, 369; and children, 
104 

Alexander T., 186 

Duncan, 104 

Frederick, 87 
Stiles. Jesse, 440 

Reuben and children, 113 



Stillwater, churches of, 39, 88 and note, 
146 and note, 204, 281, 351 

development of, between 1800 and 
1831, 145, 146 

development of, from 1831 to 1861, 
204 

development of manufactures in, 
from 1861 to 1898, 277 

first settlements in. 39-41 

gazetteer of the town of, 350-353 

list of the justices of the peace of. 
353 

list of members of an entire church 
who signed agreement to settle in, 
40 

list of residents in, before 1800, 87 

list of the supervisors of, 352 

list of the town clerks of, 452 

schools of, 284 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 1800, 84-89 

village, 351 

villages and hamlets m the town of, 
353 

Journal, the. 290 
Stirason, Earl, Gen., 104, 151, 153 
Stone, Eli, 86 

Lewis, 104. 378 
Story, George D. , 309 
Stover. Robert E., 279 
Stow. Isaac, 36, 67 
Stowits, George H., 283 
Strang, Edward H., 292 

James, 348 
Strong, William, 86 
Strover, George, Col., 59, 149, 305, 306 

John, 38, 348 
Stryker. Peter, Rev.. 301 
Stubbs, Roland H., Dr., 455 
Sturges, Charles H., 440 
Sullivan, John, 146 
Sumner, John, and family, 106; 379 
Superintendents of the poor, list of, 

464 
Supervisors, first board of, 127 
Surrogates, list of, 463 
Swain, John, 139 
Swanick, James F., 440 
Swart, Dirck, 87, 136 

Tunis, 101 
Swartout, Jacobus, 88 
Sweatland, Samuel, 115 
Sweeney, Thomas J., 284 
Sweetland, Silas, 148 
Sweetman, James T., Dr., 297, 298 

J. T., Dr., 454 

Thomas, 44, 373 
Sylvester, Nathaniel B., 300 



INDEX. 



195 



Taylor, Asher Smith. 135 

George, 87 

James, 102 

Jeremiah, 86 

John, 36. 45, 88, 97, 139, 165, 330, 373 

John W., 163, 165, 413; sketch of, 428 

Joshua, 41, 126, 411 

Noah, Josiah and Joshua, 91 

Ziba, 97, 136. 139, 3.30 
Teachout, Jacob and Cornelius, 90 

Nicholas, 91 
Tenney, Samuel. Dr., 446 
Terhune, John, 108, 155 
Terpenny, John, 115 
Terry, J. Frank, 292 
Thollheimer family, the, 46 
Thomas, CassiusB., 296 

David, 88 

William, 94 
Thompson, George L., 309 

Gideon, Dr., 165 

lames. 144. 413, 414; sketch of, 433 

lohn, 86, 126, 128, 411, 413 ; sketch of, 

' 422 

John'w., 196 

Nathan, Dr., 164 

Samuel. 144 

Smith, 413 
Thomson, Lemon, 349 
Thorburn, Kate De R., Rlrs., 298 
Thorn, John, 92 

Stephen. 154 
Thorne, Amanda, 383 
Thurber, Charles D., 390, 292 
Tibbetts. William, Dr., 148, 165. 447 
Tibbits, Eli.sha, 177 
Todd. Eli M., 144, 145 
Toll, David J., 176 

Jacob, 94 

Jesse. 94, 95, 348 
Tompkins, Obadiah, 107 
Tourtelot, Esek. 118 
Towns, organization of the, 11, 13, 124, 

135 
Townsend, John, 176 
Tracy, Uri and Ephraim, 73 
Traver. Charles J.. 394 
Traverse, Abraham, 90 
Tripp, William, 42, 91 
Trowbridge, William, 106 
Tryon, Salmon, 79 
Tucker, Mark. Rev., 146 
Turpin, Seth, 87 
Tuttle, John, 87 

Twenty-second Separate company, early 
history of, 324, 325 

in the Spanish war, 315-319 
Tyler, William. 148 



Upham, Nathaniel, 91 

Utopian Club of Ballston Spa, 299 

Vail, Dr., 448 

Gamaliel, 94 

George, 177 

James, 117, 156 

Moses, 88 
Valentine, Abraham, 87 

Ebenezer, 107 

George C. , 298, 415 

James, 45, 102, 373 

John C, 148 

Stephen, 153 

William L. R.. 148 
Van Alstyne, Daniel, 77, 91 

Israel. 91 
Van Boeckhoven, Claes Janse, 46 
Van Camp. Simeon, 115 
Van Dekar, John, 77 
Vandenburgh, Cornelius, 86, 411 

Evert, 41 

family, the, 39 

John M., 415 

Killiaen, 41, 88, 354 

Nicholas, 46, 108 

Wynant, John and Cornelius, 44 
Vanderwerker family, the, 44 

Hendrick, 91 

vS. H., 285 
Van Doren, William, Dr., 453 
Van Duzen, Abram, 149 
Van Dyck, Peter D., 411 
Van Epps, Abram. 101 
Van Everen, Myndert, ir., 411 
Van Horn. P'rederick, Rev., 151 
Van Kirk, Joseph, 100, 151 
Van Kleeck, E., 278 
Van Ness, William, 162 
Van Olinda, Peter, 46 
Van Patten, John, 101 
Van Rensselaer, John, 436 
Van Schoonhoven, Guert, 135, 144, 165, 
187, 411 

Jacobus, Col., 32,76, 91. 126. 344, 411 
Van Steenburgh, Elias, 91 
Van Tassel, Corneliuf. 87 
Van Veghten, Colonel, 38 

Cornelius, 95 

Herman, 94, 95 

Walter, 94 
Van Vranken, Adam I., John and John 
R.. 91 

Andreas, 46 

Jacobus and Evert, 158 

Ryck Claes, 46 
Varnam, John, 126, 411 
Varney, Lewis, sketch of, 434 



196 



INDEX. 



Varney, Miles E., Dr., 450 
Vassar, Matthew, 274 
Vedder, Simon P., 84 
Verbeck, James W., 309 

Jan, 46 
ohn Watson. 437 
Vernam, Cramer, 148 
Verner, James, 87, 88 

John, 88 
Viall, JobG., 354 
Vibbard, John, 144, 145 
Viele, Ludovicus, 94 

Stephen and Johannes, 93 
Vincent, Jeremiah, 90, 91 

John, 90 
Vischer, Eldert, 375 

Eldert, Nanning and John, 46 

John E., 148 
Volweider, Abram and Jacob, 46 
\ro^man, Bartel, 37, 348 

John, 93 

Wadsworth, Horace L., 141 
Wagman, Henry, 98, 149, 330 

John and Nicholas, 98, 330 
Wait, Abner, 157 

Daniel, 137 

Edmund, 104 

Joseph, 104 

Reuben, 153 

William, 94, 95 
Waite, Solomon, 115, 148 
Wakeman, Lloyd, 82 
Waldron, Cornelius A., 439 

William, 77, 91 
Walker, Archibald, 88 

Evert, 109 

Henry, 116 

John, 95 
Waldo, Shubael. 91 

Walton. Henry, 82, 137, 176; sketch of, 425 
Walworth, Reuben Hyde, 165; sketch of, 

417, 418 
Wandell, John, 188 
War, French and English, the, 24-30 

French and Indian, 20-23 
Ward, John, 164 

William, 91 
Wareham, A., Rev., 298 
Waring, Gilbert, 413 
Warren, Epenetus, 88 

James. 88, 104 

Jesse. 146 

John, 115 

Nathan, 177 

Stephen, 17^ 

William L. F , 149, 331; sketch of, 
424 



Waterbury, Heman L., 298, 299 

John A., 294, 331 

Lewis, 154 

Nathaniel H., 294 
Waterford, business men of, before 1815, 
141. 142 

churches of. 78. 143 and note. 144 
and note. 344 

development of. from 1800 to 1831, 
140-145 

development of from 1831 to 1861, 
200-203 

development of manufactures in. 
from 1861 to 1898. 377-379 

establishment of the Emma Willard 
Female Seminary at. 142 

first bank of. 144 

first permanent settlers of, 33 

first village trustees of, 344 

gazetteer of the town of, 343-347 

hydraulic canal at, 143 

list of justices of the peace of, 346 

list of police justices of, 347 

list of supervisors of, 346 

list of town clerks of, 346 

list of village presidents of, 344 

manufacturers of, 345 

Masonry in, 145, 801, 202 

Miss Haight's school in, 145 

schools of, 283 

settlements, schools and churches of, 
from 1783 to 1800, 76-78 

Waterworks Co., 345 

Advertiser, the, 286 

Club, the, 299 
Waterman, Asa, and son Asa, 81 ' 
Watkins, Hezekiah, 101 
Watrous. Edward A.. 68. 72, 82, 88, 127, 

164, 293, 358 
Watson, Cyprian, 85 

George, 291 

Titus, Capt., 35 
Way, John, 91 
Webb, Isaac, 83 
Webster, Abraham, 87 

W. B., Dr., 455 
Weed, Frederick, 156 

John, Abraham and Jared, 120 
ohn S., 156, 157 

Nathaniel, 36 

Noah, 119 

Reuben, 83 

Thomas, 81 
Welch, Asa, 149 

Joseph, 38, 149 
Weldon, Abraham, 91 
Weldron, J., 283 
Welds, Robert, 99 



INDEX. 



197 



Wells, Nathaniel, 121, 388 
Wemple, Myndert, 44 
Wentlall, Gamaliel, 411 

Harmonis H., 411 
Wendell, Ahasuerus, 102 
Wesley. Coonrad, 91 

West. George, 207, 273-275, 291, 309, 339. 
361. 364 

Thomas, William and Francis, 87 
Westcot, Hubert C, 299 

James R., 187 

Jeremiah, 120 

Joseph, 139, 187 ; and descendants, 79 

Sylvanus. 10.0. 379 
Wetsell, John K., 204 

Peter V. , 284 
Whalen, Abel, and sons, 82; 337 

Ezekiel, 84, 341 

Seth S., 299 
Wheeler, Solomon, 95 
Whipple, Dexter, 112 

Job and Esek, 120 
White, David F., 164 

Epenetus, and son, 35; 73, 76, 126, 
338, 358. 411, 412 

Hugh, 293, 309 

Joseph. 294, 331 

J. S,. Dr.. 455 

Stephen, 35 

Rufus, 285 
Whitehead, John, 83, 163 
Whitford, Foster. 87, 99 
Whiting, Calvin, 299 
Whitney, Henry C, 210 

Hiram, 87 
Wicks, Daniel, 138 

Zopher, and sons, 101 
Wiggins, John. 87 

Peter V., 331 
Wilbur, Thomas and Force, 95 
Wilcox, Abraham, John and Francis, 88 

George W.. 188 

Lemuel, 163 

Obadiah, 105 

William, 149,206, 291, 306 
Wiley, Alfred N.,299 

Stephen, 91 
Willard, Elias, Dr., 87 

John, 290; sketch of, 419 
Williams, David, 348 

Ephraim, Col., 27 and note 

Israel and Abner, 120 

John, 88 

John Floyd, Dr., 448 

Jonathan, 137 

Lewis, 87 

Moses, 177, 293 

Peter, 81 



Willis, Hezekiah, 94 

Wil.sey, Jacob, 42 

Wilson. Hiram A.. Prof., 165, 213 and 

note 
Wilton, churches of, 158, 213, 282, 386 

development of, from 1800 to 1831, 
158 
1831 to 1861, 213 

first settlements in. 36 

first town officers of, 386 

gazetteer of the town of, 385-388 

hamlets in, 386 

list of justices of the peace of, 387 

list of supervisors of. 386 

list of town clerks of, 387 

settlements of, from 1783 to 1800, 
113. 114 
Wing. Albert G., 156, l.')7 

Daniel, 156, 157 

Elihu. 156. 157 

Prince, 120 
Winner, Nelson. 94 
Winney, Francis R. , 149 

Peter, 44 
Winsor, Zenas, 120 
Wiswall, Irving W., 299 
Woeman, John. 39 
Wood, Alva, Dr., 448 

Daniel. 93 

David, and sons Stephen, Benjamin. 
Elijah, Nathan and Enoch, 47, 
337 

David L., 299 

Edward I., 284 

Enoch, 68, 72 

John, 127, 412 

Jonathan, and sons, 118; 157 

Joseph, 120 

J. M.. 309 

Samuel, 81, 127, 412 

Silas, Dr., 165 
Woodin, Timothy, 42, 91 
Woodworth. Ephraim, Capt., 85, 87 

John, 411 

Reuben, 87 
Worden, Benjamin, 156 

William W., 188 
Wright, Abram Q., 87 

Asa, 139 

Reuben, 86 

Yates, John B., 212 

John W., 411 

Joseph C, 411 

Robert. 88 

Thomas. 157 
Young, Clemens, 91 

John. 36 



198 



INDEX. 



Young, Samuel, 162, 163, 176; sketch of. Youngs, James, 91 
423 
Thomas, and son Samuel, 115 Zeh, Edgar, Dr.. 453 

Youngs, Isaac. Dr., 117, 118, 165, 447 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 



550 



576 



Ainsvcorth, Seymour, 515 

Anderson, John K., Dr., 565 

Anthony, Joshua, 579 

Barbour, Oliver L., 533 

Bau Teller Family, The. 

Beach. William A., 518 

Bellinger. Peter, Dr., 579 

Bockes, Augustus, 513 

Brackett, Edgar T.. 498 

Brady, Edward M., Rev., 

Brennan, Joseph P.-, 572 

Bullard. Daniel A., 522 

Bullard, Daniel A., 2d, 525 

Bullard, Edward C, 524 

Burke, John H., 544 

Cady, Clifford E., 568 

Carey, Joseph, Rev., 566 

Closson, C. S., .564 

Comstock, George F. , Dr., 516 

Cook, Ransom, .541 

Cowen, Esek, 507 

Cramer, John, 538 

Crane, John W.,569 

Curtis, Warren, 575 

lJavid.son, Lucretia and Margaret, 5,53 

Davison, Charles Mason, 532 

Davison, Gideon M.. 547 

Delaney, William J., 538 

De Ridder. John Henry, 537 

Deuell, Edward Valencourt, Dr., 511 

Earley, James, 570 

Ellsworth, Ephraim E., Col., 240 

Farrow, Edwin, 581 

Finley, Thomas, 582 

French, Winsor Brown, 

Gage, William B., 518 

Hamilton, Theodore Frank, 511 

Hanson, William Hendricks. 527 

Hay, William, 526 

Horton, James W., 570 

Houghton. Jamei W. . 514 

Howe, John W., 539 

Hill, Nicholas, 505 

Jenkins, Benjamin R., 584 

L'Amoreaux, Jesse S., 574 



493 



Lester, Charles Cooke, 563 

Lester, Charles Smith. 561 

McCarty, R. H., Dr.. 546 

McDonough. Bernard J., Rev., 535 

McKean, James B. , 531 

McKittrick, William Henry, Capt.. 534 

McNair, A. R., 554 

McNair, Frederick P., Lieut., 555 

McNulty, William Douglass, 577 

Martin. William M., .552 

Marvin, James M., .504 

Marvin, Thomas J., 502 

Masten, Jeremiah, 583 

Murray. Byron J., Dr., 542 

Newell, Hiram, 530 

Perry, John L., Dr., 519 

Porter, John K.. 505 

Porter, Joshua, Dr., 5.53 

Putnam, John. R., 490 

Redmond. William J., ,5.35 

Sackett, William A., 499 

Schuyler, Harmanus, 545 

Scott, James Lee, 508 

Sherman, Ray S., 582 

Snyder, Michael P.. 5.58 

Steel, John H., Dr., 549 

Strang, Edward H., 550 

Sutfin, Ransom, .559 

Taylor, John W.. 517 

Thompson Family, The, 4S1 

Todd, Edvi-ard R', 578 

Tompkins, Hiram, 506 

Turpit, George F., 578 

Varney, Miles Egbert, Dr., 571 

Walton, Henry, 531 

Walworth. Reuben Hyde, 490 

Warren, William L. F., .545 

Wayland, Francis. Rev., 547 

West, George, 528 

Wiggins, Peter V. , 550 

Willard, John, 521 

WiUcox, Alberto., 548 

Worden, William W., 560 

Young, Jesse, 584 

Young, Samuel, Col., 509 



mnRX. 



,,199 



PERSONAL REFERENCES. 



Abel, David, 3 
Aken, Nelson P., 172 
Akin, David, 3 
Aldrich, E. J., 3 
Allen, William H., 138 
Andress, J. J., 4 
Andrus, Charles B., 4 
Arnold, Thomas J., 4 

Vernon E., 5 
Ashton, Edward B., 116 
Atkinson, James W. , 149 
Atwell, Henry, 167 

Robert S., 5 

Backus, F. Albertine, 5 
Bacon, George P., 171 
Bailey, Herbert O., 6 
Baker, Aaron, 6 

Albert E , 7 

Elmer E.. 7 

Fayette, 7 

George A., 164 

John, 8 

John C. 172 

John T., 164 

Warren, 175 . 
Ballou, Erastus M., 168 
Bang, H. A. & W. F., 117 
Barber, Ira Collins, 8 
Barbour, John L. , 8 
Barnes, George W., 9 
Barrett, Simon W., 9 
Baumes, Will H., 10 
Beach, James B. , 10 
Bennett, George H., 10 

William E., 11 
Berner, John, 11 
Best, Lewis H., 147 
Bidwell, Alvin, 13 
Blittersdorf, Isadore, 172 
Blodget, George W., 12 
Bloom, George W., 125 
Boyce, Fred, 154 
Brewster, James H., 13 
Brightman, John H.. 13 
Britton, Reuben, 16o 
Brookins, George, Dr., 14 
Brown, Alpheus, 14 

Frank H., 14 
Bryau, Newton T. , 14 
Bull, Stephen C, 15 
Bumstead, George M., 15 
Burnham, James A., 113 



Burnham, W. J., 154 

John H., 155 
Burrett, James, 15 
Bush, A. J., 109 

Edgar J., sr., 139 

George, 16 
Butler, James, 16 

Walter Prentiss, 16 
Byrnes, Daniel, 17 

Caldwell, Eramor J., 17 
Callen, Charles P., 17 
Canfield, R. A., 18 
Carpenter, Charles E.. 127 

William P., 134 
Carr, Richard, 18 
Caryl, H. Julius, 18 
Chapman, John, 137 
Childs, Thomas S., 19 
Churchill. A. L., Dr., 19 
Clapp, George F. , 20 

Russell P., 30 
Clark, E, Clmton, 171 
Clement, Daniel W.. 20 

Henry S., Col., 21 
Clements, Edgar D., 173 
Cobb, William, 148 
CoUamer, Warren B. , 131 
Condon, Perrv D.. 21 
Conklin, Othiiiel, 21 
Conley, Walter P., 148 
Coons, William H., 22 
Cowles, John, 22 
Craig, Millard F., 33 
Crippen, George M., 23 
Crocker, Harry, 23 

James N., Rev., 132 
Cummings, Michael S.-, 117 
Cunningham, Peter. 147 
Curtis, Amanda, Mrs., 150 

Albert S., 23 

Eugene E. , 24 
Curtiss, Anson F., 24 

Dalton, Walter M., 24 
Daniels, John M., 25 
Darrow, William C. , 25 
Davidson, John P., 174 
Davis, Howard W., 136 
Dee, John, 26 
De Garmo, Deroy, 26 
Dehn, Christian, 26 
De Loriea, Joseph, 155 



200 



INDEX. 



Densmore, Isaac, 20 
Denton, Myron. 27 
Desjardins, Noe, 28 
Deyo. Philip, 28 
Deyoe, Albert. 28 

Chauncey A.. 28 
Dolan, Michael, 157 
Dolch, Charles C, 29 
Donnelly, William S., 29 
Douglass, Daniel S., 29 
Dower, Morris, 30 
Duncan, John C. , 30 
Dunlop, John J., Dr., 31 
Dunn, Francis J., 31 
Dunston, R. E., 31 
Durant, William, Rev., 32 
Durkee, Elmer E., 32 
Dwyer. Edward E., 110 
Dye, R. G., 33 

Earing, Daniel B., 173 
Eddy, George B., 33 

John M., 33 
Edmonds, Charles, 165 
Eede, C. W., 34 
Ellsworth, Daniel W., 34 
Elms, Charles, sr. , 34 
Englehart. George L. , 35 
Ensign, George A., 35 

John Wesley, 146 
Epler, H. J., Ill 
Estabrook, Nathaniel, 36 

Farley, John, 173 
Fassett, John S., Col., 133 
Ferguson, W. , 171 
Ferris, Frank (5., 145 

Fred H., 145 
Ferry, Edward E., 147 
Finch, Harvey L., 130 
Fish, Charles F., 127 
Fitchett, Irving P., 36 
Flammer, Albert J., 132 
Flynn, James, 36 
Foley, John, 37 
Ford. John W., 37 
Formel, Julius Z., 38 
Fort, Cornelius M. , 38 

John L., 39 
Frasier, M. G., 159 
Freeman, Andrew J., 115 

Nelson G., 133 
Fry, Dewitt C, 39 
Fuller, Edward H., 39 

Frank A., 40 
Kunson, Thomas, and brothers, 40 

Gardiner, Henry L., 40 



Gaylor, William H., 41 
George. Francis, 41 
Gick, Frank, 41 
Glavin, James H., 42 
Glenn, Scott B., 160 
Goldsmith, Benjamin Judah, 42 
Goodland, Ann, Mrs., 42 
Gorman, Michael H., 148 
Granger, William H.,42 
Grant, C. S., Dr., 43 

Dianas., Miss, 43 
Gray, Endress, 48 
Greene, John C, 144 
Gregg, David, 44 
Grenell, John Dennison, 44 
Grippin, Bartlett B., 44 
Guy, Walton B., 45 

Haberlin, John P. B., 45 
Haight, Walton, 161 
Hall, A. J., 169 

Hibbard, 45 

William H., Dr., 45 
Ham, John H., 46 
Hammond, Frederick, 170 
Harriman, Joseph, 150 
Harris, Arnold, 46 

Mary C, Mrs., 47 
Hart, Andrew J., 144 

Madison W., 144 
Hasbrouck, Georgie A., 144 
Hatlee, Charles, 47 
Hay, (Jeorge, 150 
Hayden, Adelbert C, 48 
Hays, Alexander S., 48 
Heeney, P., 48 
Heffernan, Edward J., 49 
Height, Ferdinand, 49 
Hemstead, John, 49 
Heritage, Joshua, 50 
Hill, Seth, 166 
Hochstrasser, Amos, 50 
Hodges, C. H., 50 

George H., 51 

Miles E., 51 

William Carpenter, 51 
Hodgman, John B., 52 
Holmes, Franklin, 52 
Howe, William, 1,57 
Howland, Smith B., 52 
Huestis, William B., ,52 
Hughes, George W. . 53 
Humphrey. James, 53 

John F., Dr., 53 
Hunter. Andrew W., 53 



Inman, Earl, Dr., 54 



I 



INDEX. 



201 



Jaquith family, the, 54 
enkins, Frank M.. 122 
Jones, John S., 54 

Kavanaugh, George W. , 55 

William, 149 
Kearney, Edward, 50 
KellogK, George, 56 
Kelly, Robert, 57 
Kelso, Thomas A., 143 
Kilmer, Clarence B., 57 
King, Milford P., 143 
Kingsley, William V., 57 
Kraen, Ferdinand. 137 
Kneil, Thomas R., 5S 
Knowlson. Walter Sherman, 58 
Koenig, George V., 170 

Lamb, James E., 59 
Lape, John, 143 
La Point, Frank, 167 
Lawler, J. G., 155 
Lawrence, Eben S., Dr., 59 

Franklin W., 130 
Lawton, George Perkins, 117 
Lee, Wellington, 139 
Lefler, W. S., 59 
Leonard, Thomas. 59 
Lester, Willard, 60 
Lewis, George L.. 60 

Henry M.. 149 
Lighdc. John, 136 
Lincoln, Chester H., 60 
Lockrow, Charles A., 61 
Lohnas, D. , 61 
Luther, Thomas C. 62 
Lyttle, Joseph E., 142 

McCall, MarvE.,62 
McCreedy, Gordon S., 62 

Samuel, 63 
McDonald, John, 156 

Patrick, 63 
McEwen. Robert C, Dr.. 64 
McGreivey, John C. , 151 
McGuire, Patrick J.. 65 
McKain, James B., 65 
McKallor, Edgar C, 65 
McKav, Alexander, 136 
McLees. Mary, Mrs., 66 
McNeal, John, 66 
McNulty, James D., 66 
Mahew, William J., 67 
Mahon, Charles F., 130 
Manogue, D., 68 
Mansfield, Lewis William. 68 
Marble. Marj- C. Mrs., 151 
Mart, M. F., Mrs., 69 



Martin, Francis A., 69 
Mason, George H., & Son, 156 
Mead, Edwin. 69 

Philip, 70 
Meader, Isaac W. , 70 
Mealey, James, 71 
Medbery, Horace J., 71 

Nathan, 166 
Menshausen, Henry, 167 
Middlebrook. E. R.. 71 
Miller, E. L., 72 
Miner, Willard J., 72 
Mingay, Richard, jr., Lieut., 125 
Monroe, Edwin A., Dr., 72 
Montanye, George N., 73 
Montgomery, Charles H. J., 132 
Moore, George M., 73 
Morris, John H., 73 

Sidney E.,>74 
Morton, George W., 74 
Mossey, Thomas, 75 
Muhlfelder, J. D., 75 
Muldowney, Edward J., 138 
Myers, Morris, 75 

Simon H., 127 

Nash. Charles W., 142 
Neilson, Frank W., 165 
NewTnan, J. P., Rev., 76 
Niras, Clark H., 170 

O'Connor, Thomas, 76 
Orcutt, Adelbert B., 141 
Osgood, Starks S. , 77 
Ostrander, Vibert W. , 77 

Packer, Joseph Homer, 77 
Pangburn, Nicholas, 162 
Parks, Marvin B., 78 
Parmenter, A. L., 78 
Patrick, George H., 78 
Patterson, Alexander A., 169 
Pearse, Samuel W., 161 
Peck, Henry C, 164 
Peckham, Allen Gifford, Dr., 79 
Perry, Joseph C, 162 
Peters, E. H., 79 
Pierson, Guy E., 110 

William A., 80 
Potter, Emory, 80 

Quinlan, Patrick N., 80 
Quinn, William H., 115 

Rawson Company, The S. E. G., 81 
Raynor. John H., Dr., 82 
Reagan. James H., 82 
Reddish. Vincent, 83 



202 



INDEX. 



Reeves, George H., 123 
Reynolds, Tabor B., IJr., 112 
Richards, John, 163 

Salmon M., 156 

Stephen H., 133 
Richardson, Joseph, 17G 
Riley. James H., 83 
Robertson, Andrew, 175 
Robinson, Willett A., 141 
Roddy, Nellie F., Miss, 132 
Rogers, Charles, 83 

George, 84 
Roods, F. D., 84 

Charles E., 85 
Roohan, Patrick F., 85 
Rouse, James M., 86 
Rowland, H. C, 86 
Rowley, James W., 141 
Ruback. John, 160 
Ryall, Benjamin, 86 
Ryan, Thomas S., 86 

Saflford, Henry D., 174 
Salisbury, Abraham E., 169 
Sarle, Eugene, 166 

San ford, 87 
Schaffer, Lawrence J., 115 
Schwarte, John C, 126 
Schwarz, Magnus, 87 
Scott-Waring, C. E., Mrs., 128 
Scully, William T., 87 
Servis, Millard F.,88 
Settle, George E., 88 
Shackelford, George R. P., 88 
ShaelTer, S. C, 89 
Shaul, Nicholas, 168 
Shaw, Edward, 89 
Shay. John P., 89 
Shayne, Mary, Mrs., 160 
Sherman, Frank J , Dr., 90 
Sherwood, L. D.,90 
Shipnian, John, 90 
Slade, Benjamin J., 151 
Slavin, Thomas H., 90 
Slocum, George H., 91 
Smead, Hartwell D., 91 
Smith, Alice H., Mrs., 91 

Edgar J., 92 

Franklin IL, 163 

Henry, 131 

James V., 157 

James W., 92 

Lyman, 166 

Solomon P., 152 

Stephen, 92 

William C, 168 

Will W., 93 
Sparling, James W., 164 



Spicer, L. , 93 
Sprott, James, 93 
Starbuck, E. D., 94 
Steenburgh, Nicholas, 94 
Stevens, F. H., Dr., 94 
Stewart, Charles A., 95 

John W., 158 
Stiles, Jesse, 116 
Strang, James Read, Ur. , 95 
Stratton, Frank W , 172 
Stumpf, Frank. 95 
Sturges, Charles H., 123 
Sulzman, Charles A.. 153 
Swan, William E., Dr., 134 
Swanick, Arthur A.. Dr., 136 

James F., 130 

Taylor, James, 172 
Terry, Charles, 96 
Thomas, Cassius B., 96 
Thompson. Henry C. , 96 

N. Remick, 131 

William L., Ill 
Totten, Thomas J., 135 
Town, Byron J., 125 

Charles S., 97 
Townsend, Joel, 159 
Traver, George H., 97 
Travis, Charles. 97 
Tynen, D. J., 98 

Valentine, George C. , 138 
Vandenburgh, Russell C, 98 

William E., 140 
Van Deusen, Henry, 98 
Van Hyning, John, 99 
Van Rensslaer, Charles C, 99 
Van Valkenberg, R., 99 
Van Vorst, Andrew F., 100 
Varney, Edward R., 100 

Ransom, 100 
Vassar, Matthew. 101 
Vedder, Hiram W., 101 
Viall, George H., 101 

Wagman, John, 103 
Waller, Mason, 102 
Wandell, John J., 102 
Ward, Charles H., 174 
Waring, Wdliam H., Mrs., 103 
Washburn. Daniel, 103 
Waterbury, Heman L., 115 
Weatherly, Charles E., 103 
Weatherwax, William Rufus, 104 
Webster, William B., Dr., 106 
Weeden, William C, 106 
Weeks, George H., 107 
Wemple, J. Russ, 107 



